Construction Materials Laboratory Technician - Asheville, NC

Construction Materials Laboratory Technician

Location: Asheville, NC and Surrounding Areas

About Us

Goins Sweitzer Engineers and Consultants is a multi-modal, transportation-focused consulting firm offering construction management solutions to our clients’ infrastructure project needs through the delivery of responsive, high-quality construction and engineering inspection (CEI), contract administration, construction materials management, utility coordination, training, value analysis, cost estimating, risk assessment, and specialized project and program management consulting services.

We are committed to delivering exceptional services and creating a truly outstanding experience for both our employees and our clients. Our firm was built with the vision of fostering a work environment that inspires personal and professional growth and empowering every individual to reach their fullest potential. This employee-centric culture fosters an environment that attracts top-tier professionals who are deeply committed to delivering exceptional, high-quality services with professionalism and genuine care for our clients.

Job Description

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Materials Laboratory Technician to join our team of construction professionals. As a Materials Laboratory Technician, you will be assigned to one or more Materials Testing Laboratories and be responsible for sampling and testing construction materials including, aggregate, concrete, soils, asphalt, and other relevant construction materials to ensure compliance with project specifications, industry standards and quality requirements. The role is laboratory focused, requiring accuracy consistency and adherence to safety and testing protocols. The role may require occasional field sample pickup or delivery. Work will be fast paced with deadlines tied to construction schedules. Technicians are exposed to dust, noise, chemicals, and varying material types (appropriate PPE provided). You will have the opportunity to advance your skillset through on-the-job training as well as attendance at certification classes.

Key Responsibilities

Duties will include but may not be limited to:

Laboratory Testing:

• Conduct routine and advanced laboratory tests on soils, aggregates, concrete, asphalt, masonry, and related materials in accordance with ASTM, AASHTO, and NCDOT standards.
• Prepare test specimens (e.g., molding concrete cylinders, compacting soil samples) for strength, durability, and performance testing.
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain laboratory equipment such as sieves, balances, ovens, compression machines, and moisture/density testing devices.

Quality Assurance & Compliance:

• Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency and accuracy in all test results.
• Record, analyze, and validate test data against project specifications and regulatory requirements.
• Identify non-conformances and assist in troubleshooting material deficiencies.
• Documentation & Reporting:
• Generate clear and concise inspection reports and other pertinent documentation, including test reports and observations
• Maintain detailed and accurate test records, logs, and laboratory notebooks.
• Prepare daily test reports and summaries for internal review and client submission.
• Use laboratory software systems to enter and manage test data.
• Convey non-compliant materials to supervisor or Project Engineer and initiate further reviews or testing.

Safety & Equipment Care:

• Adhere to laboratory and company safety policies, including proper handling of materials, lifting procedures, and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.
• Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and verification of laboratory equipment.

Communication:

• Communicate clearly and effectively with project stakeholders, including coworkers, project personnel, contractors, and engineering staff
• Provide regular updates on work progression and status of assigned testing.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent AND four (2) years of construction materials testing related experience
• Prior CMT or Construction Inspection Experience with active materials testing certification for both field and laboratory testing.
• A strong sense of responsibility, a positive attitude, and the ability to work well independently and as part of a team
• Ability to perform field measurements and complete mathematical calculations to determine areas and volumes, and convert between units
• Excellent communication (written and verbal) and interpersonal skills
• Willingness to work both indoors and outdoors, in varying weather conditions
• Willingness to work weekends and nights if required
• Technical aptitude and willingness to learn new testing methods.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and accuracy.
• Time management skills to meet testing schedules and reporting deadlines.
• Valid driver’s license and favorable driving record is a requirement of this position.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate Degree in Engineering or a related field
• Previous experience working on or with NCDOT projects
• Familiarity with Plans/Blueprints, Standards, and Specifications
• The following certifications:
• American Concrete Institute (ACI) Certifications in Strength Testing, Laboratory Technician, Aggregate Testing, etc.
• ICC Certifications in Soils, Reinforced Concrete, etc.
• NCDOT Certifications in Concrete, Soils (Conventional Density), and Asphalt (QMS Roadway)
• OSHA 10-Hour Construction

Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance plans
• Retirement savings plan with company contributions
• Personal time off and paid holidays
• Company vehicle for work purposes, depending upon assignment
• Opportunities for professional development and training
• Collaborative and inclusive work environment
• The opportunity to contribute to critical transportation projects that enhance North Carolina's infrastructure

Goins Sweitzer Engineers and Consultants is an equal opportunity employer, committed to promoting diversity and fostering an inclusive workplace.

Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the United States. We are currently unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa.