Field/Laboratory Technician I

HDR, Inc.; Paducah (KY); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

HDR, Inc. is seeking a Field/Laboratory Technician I in Paducah, KY, to perform materials testing on soils, aggregates, concrete, and rock, supporting both lab and field operations. This role is ideal for individuals with a mechanical background interested in geotechnical engineering.

Key responsibilities include conducting laboratory testing, preparing reports, and assisting project teams. A high school diploma is required, and experience is preferred. This position offers on-the-job training and flexible work hours.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience with materials testing preferred but not required.
• Strong commitment to quality control and safety procedures.

Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory testing of soil, aggregate, rock, and concrete.
• Conduct field testing including density and concrete tests.
• Calibrate and maintain laboratory and field equipment.
• Document field and laboratory test results.

Skills

Laboratory testing

Field sampling

Equipment calibration

Documentation of test results

Microsoft Office experience

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Tools

Testing equipment

Job description

Job Summary

HDR is seeking a Field/Laboratory Technician I to perform materials testing on soils, aggregates, concrete, and rock in accordance with ASTM, AASHTO, and other applicable testing standards. This position will support both laboratory and field operations and offers an excellent opportunity for individuals with a technical or mechanical background who are interested in construction materials testing and geotechnical engineering. Responsibilities include laboratory testing, field sampling and testing, equipment calibration and maintenance, and preparation of field and laboratory reports. Experience is preferred but not required, and on-the-job training will be provided.

Primary Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory testing of soil, aggregate, rock, and concrete specimens in accordance with applicable ASTM and AASHTO standards.
• Conduct field testing and sampling activities, including field density testing and concrete testing.
• Calibrate, maintain, and operate laboratory and field testing equipment.
• Prepare and document field and laboratory test results for review.
• Assist field personnel and project teams during peak workload periods.
• Follow established quality control and safety procedures.
• Maintain laboratory facilities, equipment, and testing supplies.
• Obtain and maintain required materials testing certifications as directed.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in both laboratory and field environments.
• Field work may be conducted in a variety of weather conditions and temperatures.
• Work may occur on active construction sites, within roadway rights‑of‑way, or at industrial facilities.
• Position may require working around heavy equipment and other potentially hazardous conditions.
• Occasional travel will be required.
• Flexible work hours, including night work and overtime, may be required based on project needs.
• Position requires physical activity, including standing, walking, lifting, carrying, bending, and other manual labor activities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience performing construction materials testing.
• ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician certification.
• ACI Aggregate Base Testing Technician certification.
• Additional materials testing certifications or experience with ASTM and AASHTO test procedures.
• Local candidates preferred.

Required Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Microsoft Office product experience.
• General background‑related experience.
• An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee‑owned culture is a must.

Primary Location: United States-Kentucky-Paducah

Industry: Highway + Road

Schedule: Full-time

Employee Status: Regular

BusinessClass: Geotechnical

Job Posting: Jul 1, 2026