Special Inspector - Soils

Terracon; Las Vegas (NV); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Terracon is hiring a Field Technician in Las Vegas, Nevada. This role involves performing field and laboratory testing, observations, and inspections of construction materials.

The ideal candidate has 5-10 years of experience, a high school diploma, effective communication skills, and must adhere to safety standards. Responsibilities include documenting findings, training technicians, and ensuring quality in all tasks.

Qualifications

• 5-10 years of relevant experience or equivalent training.
• Experience with laptop usage and software applications.
• Valid driver's license with acceptable history.

Responsibilities

• Perform field and laboratory testing and inspection of materials.
• Document findings and results for communication to management.
• Train and supervise lower-level technicians.

Skills

Field testing and inspection

Data analysis

Communication skills

Safety compliance

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Nuclear Density Gauge

Job description

Perform field and/or laboratory testing, observation, and inspection of construction materials (soils, aggregates, concrete, asphalt, and steel). Communicate with project manager, engineering technicians, client representative, contractor’s representative and others as applicable regarding the construction site, project requirements, and testing, observation, and inspection requirements and results. Transport material samples with associated identifying documentation to the laboratory for further testing and analysis. Tabulate, prepare, and submit data and observation in the form of written and digital reports as work is performed for daily transmittal to the Terracon Project Manager. Maintain and clean equipment, vehicles and work areas. May assist with scheduling and dispatch of Technicians to project sites. Adhere to strict safety standards.

Essential Roles and Responsibilities

• Perform testing, observation, and inspection as directed in accordance with training and the specified procedures.
• Provide clear documentation of findings and results.
• Perform basic analysis of data to verify accuracy before communication and submittal to the Project Manager.
• Communicate information to Project Manager and other personnel as directed by the PM.
• Have experience and proficiency in multiple areas of field testing and inspection and/or laboratory testing.
• Train lower level technicians.
• May direct and supervise activities of other engineering technicians in the laboratory or on larger field projects.
• May interact with client and other site personnel on behalf of the Project Manager when directed.
• May assist Project Manager in development of scope for testing and inspection services.
• Maintain equipment operation and calibration.
• Perform advanced fieldwork and assist with project management.
• Plan, schedule and dispatch Technicians to project sites based on technician skill set, certifications, location, project, and priority.
• Coordinate pre-dispatch activities with Project, Department, and/or Office Managers.
• Track projects including contractor site data and status into Construction Materials and Laboratory Management System (CMELMS).
• Communicate with clients to provide up‑to‑date information regarding the company’s ability to meet expected project timelines, client needs for projects and project status.
• Drive a vehicle such as a Ford F‑150 or equivalent.
• Follow safety rules and practices and other safety requirements for all projects. Perform pre‑task planning prior to executing work. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
• Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum 5‑10 years of relevant experience or the equivalent in training and related experience.
• Experience with laptop computer use and Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable violation history.

Preferred Certification

• NAQTC Sampling & Density.
• ICC Soils certification (Grading Level B preferred).
• ICC certification in two or more of the following categories: Reinforced Concrete, Spray‑applied Fireproofing, Structural Masonry, Prestressed/Post‑Tensioned Concrete, Structural Steel – Bolting, Structural Steel – Welding.
• American Welding Society (AWS) Senior Certified Welding Inspector (SCWI).
• American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Level III certification in one or more of the following areas: Visual Testing (VT), Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), Dye Penetrant Testing (PT), Radiographic Testing (RT), Ultrasonic Testing (UT).
• Other national, regional, state, and local materials‑related certifications requiring experience and written examination, considered by the Terracon Department Manager.

Required Certification

Materials

• ACI certification in one or more of the following areas: Concrete Field Testing Technician Grade I, Concrete Strength Testing Technician.
• Certified in radiation safety and Nuclear Density Gauge operation.

Steel

• American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI).
• Structural Steel and/or nondestructive testing services: ASNT Level II.

Facilities

• Relevant certification for the services or project requirements (e.g., Registered Roofing Observer (RRO)).

All

• Successful completion of related internal safety certifications.