Laboratory Technician - Part Time

UES, Inc.; Wichita (KS); On-site; USD 17,000 - 21,000; Part time

Job summary

UES, Inc. seeks a part-time Laboratory Technician I to support soil, concrete, and other construction material testing in our Wichita lab. You will learn standard testing methods and work alongside engineers and project managers on infrastructure projects in the community.

Ideal for students or early-career professionals pursuing engineering, geology, or environmental science degrees. The role offers hands-on experience, growth opportunities, and a collaborative laboratory environment.

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 PPE.
• Basic computer proficiency, with experience in MS Office and Field Data Collection software preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine laboratory testing on construction materials, including soil and concrete, following ASTM/AASHTO standards.
• Ensure testing requirements are met and compliant with project specifications and procedures.
• Accurately document and report test results with detailed records.
• Assist with sample preparation, handling, and proper storage, ensuring sample integrity.
• Operate laboratory testing equipment and follow safety protocols.

Skills

Detail-oriented

Team player

Safety conscious

Manual dexterity

Strong communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate degree preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Field Data Collection (FDC) 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

Not Your Typical Lab Job. Perfect for Students and Early-Career Professionals.

Looking for a role that fits around your class schedule while helping you build real-world technical experience?

This part-time Laboratory Technician I opportunity is ideal for students pursuing degrees in engineering, construction management, geology, environmental science, STEM fields, or anyone interested in gaining hands‑on industry experience. Instead of working in a traditional research or medical lab, you'll support projects that help build roads, bridges, schools, commercial developments, and other critical infrastructure in your community.

You’ll work alongside experienced professionals, learn industry‑standard testing methods, and develop skills that can open doors to future careers in engineering, environmental consulting, construction, and materials science.

About the Role

As a Laboratory Technician I, you’ll play an important role in quality assurance and project success by helping evaluate the materials used in construction and infrastructure projects. Working in a collaborative laboratory environment, you’ll gain exposure to advanced testing equipment, industry standards, and real‑world engineering applications.

Whether you’re looking to gain relevant experience while finishing school or seeking a flexible opportunity to grow technical skills, this role offers valuable learning and development opportunities.

What You'll Work On

• Test soil, concrete, asphalt, aggregates, and other construction materials
• Support projects that improve communities and infrastructure
• Learn industry‑standard laboratory procedures and testing methods
• Operate specialized testing equipment and technology
• Partner with engineers, project managers, and technical teams
• Help ensure quality, safety, and performance standards are met
• Build hands‑on experience that can support future career growth

What Makes Someone Successful

We're looking for individuals who are:

• Detail‑oriented and committed to producing accurate results
• Eager to learn new technical skills
• Reliable, organized, and self‑motivated
• Comfortable working in a hands‑on laboratory environment
• Curious about engineering, construction, or environmental projects
• Strong team players who enjoy collaborating with others

Responsibilities

• Perform routine laboratory testing on construction materials, including soil, concrete, and other construction materials following ASTM, AASHTO, and other applicable industry standards to ensure compliance with project specifications.
• Ensure that project testing requirements are met and compliant with project specifications, requirements, and company policies and procedures.
• Accurately document and report test results, maintaining detailed, organized, and error‑free records.
• Assist with sample preparation, handling, and proper storage, ensuring sample integrity, traceability, and adherence to laboratory protocols.
• Operate laboratory testing equipment.
• Follow strict safety protocols and laboratory procedures, including proper handling of materials and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Communicate effectively with lab supervisors, engineers, and field personnel, providing timely updates on test results, sample status, and any technical issues.
• Perform additional duties as assigned, supporting the laboratory team, field technicians, and project managers as needed.

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.

Travel Requirements

This position does not require regular travel as part of its primary responsibilities. However, occasional
travel may be required, up to 10%, primarily for occasional off‑site meetings, training sessions, or
company events. Travel, when necessary, will be communicated in advance and aligned with business
needs.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

Work is sometimes conducted in a laboratory setting, but may also involve fieldwork and exposure to outdoor conditions, including:

• Sites that may not be accessible by vehicle, requiring travel on foot through wetlands, swamps, grasslands, construction zones, and other uneven or rugged terrain with natural and man‑made obstacles such as sand, brush, and debris.
• Physical requirements include:
• Ability to lift and carry between 35 and 75 lbs. over distances up to 75 feet, involving regular repetitive motion.
• Ability to stand, walk, drive, and operate laboratory and field equipment for extended periods.
• Frequent use of hands and arms for typing, handling samples, operating lab instruments, and performing testing procedures.
• Ability to bend, twist, reach, stoop, pull, kneel, climb, balance, lift, carry, and push as required for laboratory and fieldwork.
• Ability to communicate effectively through verbal and written means in a lab and field environment, often requiring the use of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment).
• Ability to use your senses to see (including close, distant, and peripheral vison, depth vision, and ability to focus) and smell.

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