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$13

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$32

How much do construction materials testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for construction materials testing in Iowa is $20.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $23.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

How to become a construction materials tester?

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

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 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.

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 lab equipment. It often requires certifications such as NICET and offers opportunities for advancement in the construction and engineering industries.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Construction Materials Testing jobs in Iowa? For Construction Materials Testing jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Construction Materials Testing jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Construction Materials Testing jobs in Iowa are:
Construction Materials Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Construction Materials Testing job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,137 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Construction Materials Testing Technician

TERRACON

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Terracon rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 119 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 72 rated business consultants

Job description

Terracon has an opportunity for a Construction Materials Technician to join our team in Mt. Pleasant, 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 Mt. Pleasant 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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