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Construction Material Testing Jobs in California

Quality Control Technician

Modesto, CA ยท On-site

$19.50 - $25/hr

Comply with ASTM, ACI, AASHTO, and Caltrans specifications for sampling and testing construction materials * Organize a concrete break schedule and plant testing equipment recertification process to ...

Quality Control Technician

Modesto, CA

$19.50 - $25/hr

Comply with ASTM, ACI, AASHTO, and Caltrans specifications for sampling and testing construction materials * Organize a concrete break schedule and plant testing equipment recertification process to ...

Quality Control Technician

Modesto, CA ยท On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Comply with ASTM, ACI, AASHTO, and Caltrans specifications for sampling and testing construction materials * Organize a concrete break schedule and plant testing equipment recertification process to ...

Quality Control Technician

Modesto, CA ยท On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Comply with ASTM, ACI, AASHTO, and Caltrans specifications for sampling and testing construction materials * Organize a concrete break schedule and plant testing equipment recertification process to ...

Quality Control Technician

Modesto, CA ยท On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Comply with ASTM, ACI, AASHTO, and Caltrans specifications for sampling and testing construction materials * Organize a concrete break schedule and plant testing equipment recertification process to ...

Quality Control Technician

Modesto, CA ยท On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Comply with ASTM, ACI, AASHTO, and Caltrans specifications for sampling and testing construction materials * Organize a concrete break schedule and plant testing equipment recertification process to ...

Quality Control Technician

Modesto, CA ยท On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Comply with ASTM, ACI, AASHTO, and Caltrans specifications for sampling and testing construction materials * Organize a concrete break schedule and plant testing equipment recertification process to ...

Quality Control Technician

Modesto, CA ยท On-site

$19.50 - $25/hr

Experience in testing construction materials and/or plant inspection is preferred. Working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel. Must have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.

Quality Control Technician

Modesto, CA ยท On-site

$19.50 - $25/hr

Experience in testing construction materials and/or plant inspection is preferred. Working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel. Must have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.

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Construction Material Testing information

See California salary details

$13

$21

$34

How much do construction material testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for construction material testing in California is $21.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $24.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is construction material testing?

Construction material testing is the process of evaluating building materials, such as concrete, steel, asphalt, soil, and aggregates, to ensure they meet specific standards and project requirements. This testing can be performed both in laboratories and on construction sites. The goal is to verify the quality, strength, and durability of materials to ensure the safety and longevity of a structure. Common tests include compressive strength tests for concrete, compaction tests for soil, and tensile tests for steel. Proper material testing helps prevent structural failures and ensures compliance with industry codes and regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a construction material testing technician?

To excel as a Construction Material Testing Technician, you need a solid understanding of construction materials, basic engineering principles, and often a high school diploma or relevant associate degree. Familiarity with testing equipment, ASTM/ACI certifications, and proficiency in data recording systems are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help technicians accurately assess materials and collaborate with project teams. These skills ensure construction materials meet safety and quality standards, directly impacting the success and integrity of building projects.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in construction material testing, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Construction Material Testing often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, adhering to tight project deadlines, and ensuring strict compliance with safety and quality standards. Effective communication with project managers, contractors, and laboratory staff is essential to address discrepancies and provide timely, accurate reports. Staying current with testing protocols and industry regulations, as well as developing strong attention to detail, can help overcome these challenges and ensure the integrity of construction projects.

What is the difference between Construction Material Testing vs Construction Quality Control Technician?

AspectConstruction Material TestingConstruction Quality Control Technician
CertificationsASTM certifications, NICET levelsOSHA, NICET certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, construction sitesConstruction sites, inspection areas
Primary FocusTesting materials for compliance and safetyMonitoring construction processes for quality assurance

Construction Material Testing focuses on analyzing and verifying the properties of construction materials to ensure they meet safety and quality standards. Construction Quality Control Technicians oversee ongoing construction activities, ensuring work adheres to specifications and quality standards. While both roles aim to ensure construction safety and quality, Material Testing is more lab and analysis-oriented, whereas Quality Control Technicians are more involved in on-site inspections and process monitoring.

How to become a construction material tester?

To become a construction material tester, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or certification in materials testing methods. Many employers prefer candidates with knowledge of construction materials, testing equipment, and safety procedures, and some roles require state or industry certifications such as NICET or ACI certifications.

Is construction material testing a good career?

Construction material testing is a stable career that involves evaluating the quality and safety of construction materials such as concrete, soil, and asphalt. It often requires certifications, knowledge of testing tools, and adherence to industry standards, making it a valuable role in the construction industry with steady demand.

What are the most commonly searched types of Construction Material Testing jobs in California?

The most popular types of Construction Material Testing jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Construction Material Testing jobs in California?

For Construction Material Testing jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Construction Material Testing jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Construction Material Testing jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Construction Material Testing jobs?

Cities in California with the most Construction Material Testing job openings:

Infographic showing various Construction Material Testing job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,274 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Construction Materials Testing Lab Supervisor/Manager

Apex Testing Laboratories

San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Construction Materials Testing Supervisor/Manager (San Francisco)
We are a medium, dynamic engineering firm located in San Francisco seeking a motivated and detail-oriented individual to join our team as a full-time Construction Materials Testing Supervisor/Manager. This position is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, is highly organized, and has a knack for creativity and communication.
Job Description
As the the Materials Testing Laboratory Supervisor , you will play a pivotal role in supporting the day-to-day operations of our firm and driving our technical efforts. Your responsibilities will include managing laboratory tasks, assisting with laboratory campaigns, and fostering strong communication with clients and team members. Oversee the technical and operational aspects of the testing materials like Soil, Concrete, Asphalt and Steel to ensure they meet project specifications and safety standards
Key Responsibilities
  • Personnel Management: Direct oversight of lab staff and technicians, including scheduling samples pick ups, dispatching to sites, and providing technical training and coaching.
  • Operational Oversight: Manage daily laboratory and field activities to ensure testing complies with standards such as ASTM, CCRL, AASHTO, DSA, CA DOT and others.
  • Quality Control (QC): Review, approve, and distribute test reports; evaluate vendor performance; and identify project risks or material failures.
  • Maintenance & Compliance: Ensure lab accreditation is maintained through regular equipment calibration and adherence to safety protocols (e.g., OSHA, ISO standards and others).
  • Client Coordination: Act as a primary contact for clients regarding staffing, timelines, and technical interpretations of test results.
Common Qualifications & Certifications
  • Education: A Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related technical field is typically preferred for senior roles.
  • Experience: Most positions require 5+ years of experience in materials testing, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory capacity.
  • Certifications:
    • ACI (American Concrete Institute): Field Grade 1 or Strength Testing Technician, Aggregate Testing Technician Grade I, Aggregate Base Testing Technician.
    • NICET (National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies): Level I or higher in CMT.
    • Local/Specific: Regional certifications (e.g., Caltrans in California) depending on the project location.
Typical Working Environments
  • On-Site: Supervisors conduct inspections and oversee technicians in the field, often in variable weather conditions and on rough terrain.
  • Laboratory: Overseeing testing of samples (like compressive strength tests for concrete, Soil and Asphalt Compaction ) in an indoor, controlled environment.
  • Office: Performing administrative duties, such as billing support, proposal preparation, and report writing.

โ€ข Scheduling meetings and maintaining calendars.
โ€ข Organizing and maintaining lab files and records.
โ€ข Ordering lab supplies and ensuring smooth lab operations.
Schedule & Benefits
โ€ข Full-time position: 40 hours per week
โ€ข In-office/Lab work required.
โ€ข Competitive hourly rate based on experience.
โ€ข Simple IRA (401K) Plan
How to Apply
If you're enthusiastic about contributing to a growing engineering firm and ready to take on a role that combines Laboratory and field supervision, we'd love to hear from you! Please send your resume and a brief cover letter detailing your experience and availability.
We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome candidates of all backgrounds to apply.