Laboratory Technician I

Universal Engineering Sciences; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 22,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Team UES is seeking a Laboratory Technician I to support construction, infrastructure, and environmental projects. You will perform testing on soil, concrete, asphalt, and other materials to help ensure quality, safety, and project success.

This role is ideal for hands-on individuals who enjoy learning laboratory testing techniques in a collaborative environment and contributing to meaningful outcomes for communities.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; associate degree/technical coursework preferred.
• 0–3 years in construction materials testing or geotechnical lab work preferred.
• Commitment to safety, PPE protocols, OSHA compliance.
• Proficient with MS Office and Field Data Collection software.
• Ability to read and interpret procedures, manuals and reports.
• Math skills for measurements in all units.
• Effective verbal and written communication; teamwork.
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities.
• Detail-oriented with emphasis on accuracy in testing and data.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative.
• Ability to stand for long periods and lift up to 75 lbs; travel to sites as needed.

Responsibilities

• Perform material testing to ensure quality and safety for projects.
• Test soils, concrete, asphalt, and other construction materials.
• Deliver accurate results to support engineering decisions.
• Operate modern laboratory equipment and maintain efficiency.
• Collaborate with engineers, project teams, and field personnel.
• Maintain a safe, organized laboratory environment and quality standards.
• Grow technical skills through hands-on learning and training.

Skills

Attention to detail

Safety-minded

Team collaboration

Manual dexterity

Physical stamina

Reading and interpretation

Strong communication

Education

High school diploma

Associate degree/technical coursework

Tools

Microsoft Office

Field Data Collection software

Job description

Overview

At UES, we’re a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose—to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more. Learn more about the benefits of joining Team UES and our core values at careers.teamues.com.

Position Overview

Join our team as a Laboratory Technician I and play a key role in supporting construction, infrastructure, and environmental projects. You'll perform testing on soil, concrete, asphalt, and other materials to help ensure quality, safety, and project success.

This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys hands‑on work, attention to detail, and learning laboratory testing techniques in a collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

• Perform material testing that helps ensure the quality, safety, and success of critical construction and infrastructure projects.
• Work with soil, concrete, asphalt, and other construction materials using industry-recognized testing methods.
• Deliver accurate, reliable results that support engineering decisions and project compliance.
• Operate modern laboratory equipment and contribute to efficient, high‑quality testing operations.
• Partner with engineers, project teams, and field personnel to help solve real‑world challenges.
• Maintain a safe, organized laboratory environment while upholding high quality standards.
• Grow your technical skills through hands‑on experience, training, and exposure to a variety of projects.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or technical coursework in engineering, geology, construction science, or a related field preferred.
• 0-3 years of experience in construction materials testing, geotechnical laboratory work, or a related field (prior laboratory experience preferred but not required).
• Commitment to workplace safety, following OSHA, company, and laboratory safety protocols, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Basic computer proficiency, with experience in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and Field Data Collection (FDC) software preferred.
• Ability to read, write, and interpret procedures, manuals, technical documents, and reports related to construction materials testing and laboratory protocols.
• Mathematical skills sufficient to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate with colleagues, supervisors, field personnel, and clients to carry out instructions and report findings.
• Strong organizational, time management, and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Detail‑oriented and quality‑focused, ensuring accuracy in sample preparation, testing procedures, and data documentation.
• Ability to work independently within the limitations of experience, using initiative to solve routine lab challenges.
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time and perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting and moving materials or equipment.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record; ability to travel to job sites as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Reliable, accountable, and dependable.
• Interested in building a long‑term career, not just finding a job.
• Eager to learn and grow with a supportive team.
• Safety‑minded with strong attention to detail.
• Positive attitude and willingness to pitch in where needed.

Travel Requirements

This position is primarily laboratory-based. Occasional local travel may be required to pick up materials or samples from nearby project sites. No regular overnight or extended travel is expected.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Ability to perform hands‑on work in both laboratory and field environments.
• Lift up to 75 lbs. and work on your feet for extended periods.
• Comfortable working outdoors, around construction activity, and in varying weather conditions.

EEO Statement

UES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is proud to recruit the most qualified candidates. Please see our full EEO Statement at the bottom of the page here