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How much do construction material tester jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for construction material tester in the United States is $21.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Construction Material Tester vs Construction Inspector?

AspectConstruction Material TesterConstruction Inspector
CertificationsOften requires NICET certification or equivalentRequires ICC certification or equivalent
Work EnvironmentLaboratory and construction sites, testing materialsConstruction sites, inspecting ongoing work
Primary FocusTesting and analyzing construction materialsEnsuring construction complies with codes and plans
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, testing labs, government agenciesConstruction firms, government agencies, inspectors

Construction Material Testers focus on testing materials used in construction to ensure quality, while Construction Inspectors oversee the construction process to ensure compliance with standards. Both roles are essential in construction projects but serve different functions related to quality assurance and compliance.

What are the typical challenges faced by a Construction Material Tester on job sites?

Construction Material Testers often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, coordinating with multiple contractors to access test areas, and adhering to tight project deadlines. They must consistently ensure that all materials meet safety and quality standards, which can require attention to detail and quick problem-solving when test results do not meet specifications. Additionally, effective communication with project managers and engineers is crucial to report findings and recommend corrective actions.

How to become a construction materials testing technician?

To become a construction materials testing technician, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or an associate degree in construction technology, civil engineering, or a related field. Certification from organizations like the American Concrete Institute or the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies can enhance job prospects, and familiarity with testing tools and safety procedures is essential.

How much does a CMT technician make?

Construction Material Testers (CMTs) typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced technicians with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. The job often involves working outdoors and using testing tools to ensure construction materials meet safety standards.

What does a construction materials tester do?

A construction materials tester evaluates the quality and safety of materials used in construction projects, such as concrete, soil, asphalt, and aggregates. They perform tests using specialized equipment, document results, and ensure materials meet industry standards and project specifications. Certification and knowledge of testing procedures are often required for this role.

What does a Construction Material Tester do?

A Construction Material Tester is responsible for evaluating and testing construction materials such as soil, concrete, asphalt, and steel to ensure they meet project specifications and safety standards. They collect samples from job sites, perform laboratory and field tests, and document their findings. Their work helps ensure the quality, durability, and safety of construction projects by verifying that materials comply with relevant codes and regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Construction Material Tester, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Construction Material Tester, you need a solid understanding of materials science, construction methods, and standard testing procedures, often supported by a high school diploma or associate degree in a related field. Familiarity with testing equipment, data collection software, and certifications such as ACI, NICET, or state-specific licenses is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help ensure accurate reporting and collaboration with construction teams. These skills are vital to guarantee compliance with safety standards, project specifications, and the overall integrity of construction projects.

What is the highest paid job in construction?

In construction, executive roles such as construction managers, project directors, and chief estimators tend to be the highest paid, often earning six-figure salaries. Specialized roles like structural engineers or those with advanced certifications and extensive experience can also command high wages, especially in large projects or companies.
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Construction Material Tester jobs near you
Construction Material Testing/Engineering Technician

Construction Material Testing/Engineering Technician

TERRACON

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Terracon rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 112 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 57 rated business consultants

Job description

Terracon has an opportunity for several Construction Materials Technicians to join our team in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Our Construction Materials Technician will perform various observations and tests on construction materials such as soils, concrete, masonry, reinforcing steel and asphalt. You will communicate with Project Managers, client representatives, contractor's representatives and other key stakeholders regarding testing and inspection results. Tests are performed on building construction projects in the Cedar Rapids area and in the Terracon laboratories. Successful candidates will receive in-depth technical training and professional certifications as they advance in the position within 1-2 years. 
Safety is Terracon's most important core value! Terracon provides a safe work environment for our employees and safe practices for our technicians to follow. Incident and Injury-Free (IIF) is about care and concern for people. It is our personal and organizational commitment at all levels of the company to everyone going home safe to their family every day. We will hold ourselves responsible not just for our own safety and wellbeing, but for that of everyone around us. We will all develop a mindset intolerant of any incidents or injuries no matter how minor or infrequent. 

Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.

Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.
The chemistry that holds our materials team together is made of integrity, creativity, and care. We represent Terracon's largest technician and inspection workforce and ensure the materials used to build the nation's roads, bridges, airports, stadiums, and other structures are safe and sound. With our broad range of qualifications, specialized certifications, and building materials professionals, we are on-site, evaluating and testing materials in real-time to keep the pace of our clients' project, collecting and reporting data digitally to deliver critical insights. With our nationwide footprint of offices and laboratories, bench strength, flexibility, and diverse capabilities we identify issues and expedite solutions whenever problems arise.
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Obtain ACI certification within 90 days of hire
  • Successful completion of related internal safety and technical certifications
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable violation history

Preferred Requirements:

  • Obtain Nuclear Density Gauge certification within 6 months of hire
  • Current industry certifications for materials testing a plus, but not required
  • Under direction of senior technicians, staff professionals or project managers, assists with tasks and perform basic sample tests and observation of soils, aggregates, concrete, masonry, reinforcing steel and asphalt.
  • Document and prepare sample testing and observation data using a laptop or tablet device; submit findings accurately to a Project Manager.
  • Effectively communicate testing and inspection results.
  • Will be placed in a progressively increased role of training and responsibility in work assignments.
  • Ensure that all testing equipment and tools are properly calibrated and maintained.
  • Follows safety rules and practices and other safety requirements for all projects. Performs pre-task planning prior to executing work. Reports any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Maintains quality standards on all projects.
  • Transports materials safely from various job sites to the lab using a company provided full size pickup truck.

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