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Construction Materials Testing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Flexicrew Technical Services (FTS) is seeking entry-level Construction Materials Testing Technicians to support field testing and inspection activities on construction projects. This is a great ...

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We are currently hiring multiple Construction Materials Testing Technicians to support a high-profile, multi-year earthwork construction project in Palm Beach County. This is a long-term opportunity ...

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Construction Materials Testing information

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How much do construction materials testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for construction materials testing 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 construction materials testing?

Construction materials testing (CMT) is the process of evaluating the quality and performance of materials used in construction projects, such as concrete, soil, asphalt, and steel. The goal is to ensure that these materials meet specific standards and project requirements for safety, strength, and durability. Testing is typically performed in both laboratory and field settings by trained technicians, who use specialized equipment to assess material properties. Results from CMT help prevent structural failures and ensure compliance with building codes and regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in construction materials testing?

To thrive in Construction Materials Testing, you need a solid understanding of construction materials, testing methods, and industry standards, typically supported by a degree in engineering, geology, or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory testing equipment, field instrumentation, and certifications such as ACI, NICET, or ASTM are commonly required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help professionals accurately report findings and collaborate with project teams. These skills ensure the integrity and safety of construction projects by verifying that materials meet required specifications and standards.

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

Professionals in Construction Materials Testing often face challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, meeting tight project deadlines, and ensuring strict adherence to safety and quality standards. Collaborating closely with construction teams and project managers is essential to address these challenges and ensure timely, accurate test results. Staying organized, maintaining clear communication, and continuously updating technical knowledge can help testers overcome these obstacles and contribute to successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Construction Materials Testing vs Construction Inspection?

AspectConstruction Materials TestingConstruction Inspection
CertificationsASTM certifications, NICET levelsICC certifications, NICET levels
Work EnvironmentLaboratory, field testing sitesConstruction sites, project sites
Job FocusTesting materials for quality and complianceMonitoring construction progress and adherence to plans
Industry UsageQuality assurance, material complianceProject oversight, safety, and code compliance

Construction Materials Testing and Construction Inspection are related roles in the construction industry but focus on different aspects. Materials testers primarily evaluate the quality and compliance of construction materials through laboratory and field tests, while inspectors monitor ongoing construction work to ensure it meets design specifications and safety standards. Both roles require certifications like NICET and involve working on construction sites, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

How to become a construction materials tester?

To become a construction materials 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. Gaining experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions can also improve job prospects in this field.

Is construction materials testing a good career?

Construction materials testing is a stable career that involves evaluating the quality and safety of construction materials using tools like testing machines and laboratory analysis. It often requires certifications such as NICET and offers opportunities for advancement in the construction and engineering industries.

What does construction materials testing do?

Construction materials testing involves evaluating the properties and quality of materials used in construction, such as concrete, soil, and asphalt, to ensure they meet safety and performance standards. Professionals in this field perform tests using specialized equipment and often hold certifications to verify material compliance throughout the construction process.
More about Construction Materials Testing jobs

What cities are hiring for Construction Materials Testing jobs?

Cities with the most Construction Materials Testing job openings:

What states have the most Construction Materials Testing jobs?

States with the most job openings for Construction Materials Testing jobs include:

Infographic showing various Construction Materials Testing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,861 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Construction Materials Testing Specialist

Houston, TX • On-site


Harris County, TX
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 122 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

415th of 849 rated public administrative organizations

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks


Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Salary: Depends on Qualifications
Location : Houston, TX
Job Type: Regular Full-time
Job Number: 16593
Department: Engineering Department
Opening Date: 08/19/2026
Closing Date: 8/25/2026 11:59 PM Central
Position Description
Position Overview:
The Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Specialist supports Harris County construction projects by coordinating and overseeing construction materials testing services to ensure quality, compliance, and consistency. This role ensures that all CMT work complies with project specifications, ASTM, AASHTO, TxDOT, ISO standards, and Harris County requirements. The position plays a key role in maintaining the integrity of construction materials and supporting safe, reliable infrastructure delivery.
Job Duties:
  • Review and evaluate CMT field and laboratory reports for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with applicable standards.
  • Monitor project budgets, prepare budget tracking reports, and ensure testing services remain within established allocations.
  • Review and validate invoices for accuracy and adherence to Harris County fee schedules and governing specifications.
  • Coordinate with CMT firms regarding scheduling, performance expectations, and billing discrepancies
  • Perform field and laboratory evaluations of CMT technicians to ensure adherence to testing procedures and quality standards
  • Assist in training Harris County inspectors on ASTM, TxDOT, and related testing procedures
  • Support or lead material failure investigations, including documentation and coordination with relevant stakeholders
  • Attend project meetings and provide input on materials testing, quality concerns, and compliance issues
  • Maintain documentation and tracking of testing activities to support reporting and audit readiness
  • Provide general support to project teams and leadership as needed
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx
If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net.
This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.
Requirements
Education:
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent.

Experience:
  • Minimum of five (5) years of experience in construction materials testing, including field and/or laboratory work.

Licensure:
  • Valid Texas Driver's License upon hire, and a good driving record
  • Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs):
    • Working knowledge of ASTM and TxDOT test methods for soils, aggregates, concrete, asphalt, and reinforcing steel.
    • Ability to interpret construction plans, specifications, and testing requirements.
    • Strong understanding of materials testing procedures in both field and laboratory environments.
    • Proficiency in standard math calculations used in construction materials testing.
    • Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
    • Effective verbal and written communication skills with the ability to coordinate across internal teams and external vendors.
    • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.

    Emergency Deployment & Continuity of Operations Requirement:
    In accordance with Harris County's Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) Policy, this position is subject to emergency response and deployment protocols. The employee may be designated as supporting a Mission Essential Function (MEF) and must:
    • Participate in the classification process of departmental staff based on MEF responsibilities.
      Be available for temporary deployment to an alternative work location, role, or telework assignment during emergency events.
    • Confirm work assignments with their supervisor prior to reporting to any worksite during such events.
    • Remain flexible in assuming alternative duties as directed to support County operations continuity.

NOTE: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications.
Preferences
Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, or a related field (experience may be substituted)

Experience:
  • Experience in estimating testing services for road and bridge projects
  • Familiarity with Harris County testing specifications
  • Prior experience in a lead or mentoring capacity

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs):
  • Hands-on experience performing field testing procedures
  • Experience supporting quality assurance and compliance efforts across multiple projects

Certifications:
  • National Institute of Engineering Technologies (NICET)
  • Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)
  • American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO)
  • United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)
  • American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA)

General Information
Position Type, and Typical Hours of Work:
Full-Time | Regular | 40 hours per week.
Subject to early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and holidays at times, depending upon the project or workload.
Salary: Commensurate experience, based on 26 pay periods.
Physical Demands and Environmental Exposure:
Most assignments will be performed in an office, meeting, or operations command center environment, but some field work may be required. May be required to work extended work hours during activation of disaster recovery operations for an unspecified length of time (varies based on the extent of the event).
This position requires bending, stooping, and lifting up to 25 lbs., as well as frequent walking, standing, sitting, reaching, and ascending/descending stairs. The physical demands described here are representative of those that an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this job successfully.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
FEATURED BENEFITS:
Medical, vision, and dental insurance.
Wellness.
Professional development opportunities.
Flexible spending accounts.
457 deferred compensation plans.
Retirement pension (TCDRS).
Transportation assistance (Metro Ride Sponsor Program).
Disability and life insurance.
Harris County is a Qualified Employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).
Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.
Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.
If job posting requires attachment: search "FC" in templates listing and select appropriate template
HARRIS COUNTY EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
Harris County offers a highly competitive benefits program, featuring a comprehensive group health plan and defined benefit retirement plan.
The following benefits are offered only to Harris County employees in regular (full-time) positions:
Health & Wellness Benefits
  • Medical Coverage
  • Dental Coverage
  • Vision Coverage
  • Wellness Plan
  • Life Insurance
  • Long-Term Disability (LTD) Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Healthcare Flexible Spending Account
  • Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account

Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Ten (10) days of vacation leave per year (accrual rate increases after 5 years of service)
  • Eleven (11) County-observed holidays
  • One (1) floating holiday per year
  • Paid Parental Leave*
  • Sick Leave

Retirement Savings Benefit
  • 457 Deferred Compensation Plan

The following benefits are available to Harris County employees in full-time and select part-time positions:
  • Professional learning & development opportunities
  • Retirement pension (TCDRS defined benefit plan)
  • Flexible work schedule*
  • METRO RideSponsor Program*

* Participation may vary by County department. The employee benefits plans of Harris County are extended to all eligible participants across various departments with the exception of the Harris County Community Supervision and Corrections Department, for which the cited Health & Wellness Benefits are administered through the State of Texas.
In accordance with the Harris County Personnel Regulations, group health and related benefits are subject to amendment or discontinuance at any time. Harris County Commissioners Court reserves the right to make benefit modifications on the County's behalf as needed.
For plan details, visit the Harris County Benefits & Wellness website:
01
Which of the following best describes your highest level of education completed as it relates to this position?Qualifying information must be documented in the Education section of your application.
  • High School or GED diploma
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree or higher
  • None of the above

02
How many years of experience do you have in construction materials testing, including file or laboratory work?
  • less than 2 years
  • 2 -3 years
  • 3 - 4 years
  • 4 -5 years
  • 5 or 5+ years
  • None of the above

03
For this position, a valid Texas Driver's License is necessary. Do you meet the above requirement?(Please be sure to include all related details in the Certificates and Licenses section of your application.)
  • Yes, I currently hold a valid Texas Driver's License.
  • Yes, I possess a valid Out-of-State Driver's License, but I am aware that I must acquire a valid Texas Driver's License before the start date.
  • No, I do not currently have a driver's license, but I commit to obtaining one before the start date.
  • No, I do not currently have a valid driver's license.

04
Do you have working knowledge of ASTM and TxDOT test methods for soils, aggregates, concrete, asphalt, and reinforcing steel?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you have the ability to interpret the construction plans, Specifications and testing requirements?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Do you have any of the below mentioned certifications?
  • National Institute of Engineering Technologies (NICET)
  • Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)
  • American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO)
  • United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)
  • American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA)

Required Question

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About Harris County

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Harris County is the third largest county in the United States with more than 4.7 million residents. There are four precincts in Harris County. The four elected commissioners, along with an elected county judge, serve as members of the Harris County Commissioners Court, the administrative head of the county's government.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

2000

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