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Construction Materials Testing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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As a Materials Testing Technician , you'll play a critical role in ensuring quality and safety on construction projects of all sizes. This position offers a balance of fieldwork and laboratory ...

We are seeking an entry-level Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Technician (T1) to join our growing team and support field operations on a wide variety of construction projects. Your Impact

Construction Materials Testing (CMT)

Louisville, KY · On-site

$17.75 - $24/hr

We are seeking an entry-level Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Technician (T1) to join our growing team and support field operations on a wide variety of construction projects. Your Impact

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Construction Materials Testing information

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How much do construction materials testing jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Construction Materials Testing, and why are they important?

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 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 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.

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:
Construction Materials Testing- Engineer

Construction Materials Testing- Engineer

Element Materials Technology

Saint Paul, MN

$28 - $33/hr

Other

Posted 23 days ago


Element Materials Technology rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

Overview

The primary function of the Construction Materials Testing- Engineer  is to provide construction representative testing and inspection services on various land development, roadway, and construction building projects. Work schedule may be variable including nights and weekends depending on contractor's schedules. This position may also require extended periods away from Element's St. Paul office in accordance with project location and schedule.

Salary: $28- $33/hr DOE 

Responsibilities

Ensure compliance with safety rules, company policies and procedures, as well as state and federal laws. Ensure that all testing equipment, work vehicles, and tools are properly calibrated and maintained. Set up, conduct and analyze standard field and laboratory tests following prescribed procedures. Perform testing and inspection of soil/aggregates, concrete, masonry, rebar, and bituminous pavement in the field and laboratory. Concrete tests may include air content, slump, temperature, casting of concrete cylinders, de-molding, and compression strength testing. Soil/aggregate testing may include mechanical analysis, Proctor, moisture content, Atterberg Limit, soil nuclear density testing, and sand cone testing. Bituminous pavement testing may include nuclear density testing to establish a rolling pattern or verify field density, testing bituminous cores for thickness and density, tests for oil content (extraction) and gradation, Marshall and Gyratory density, and air voids. Other job functions include performing excavation observations, documenting exposed soil conditions are suitable for planned construction, and proof-roll testing for suitability of street subgrade/aggregate base prior to pavement placement. Solve technical problems using application of standard techniques. Assist in documenting on-site test results; examine and analyze test results and explain unusual findings. Prepare test reports for review by senior staff members. Communicate with Clients, Technicians, and Project Managers on a professional level to ensure a high degree of customer satisfaction. Mentor and lead junior staff members for the completion of laboratory and field activities. Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills / Qualifications

Education and/or Experience Safety focus and attention to detail. High School Diploma or equivalent required. 2+ years in construction industry or two years technical/trade or college student working toward civil engineering or construction management degree or related field preferred. Current industry certifications for materials testing and/or construction. Related work experience in materials testing or construction helpful, however, not required.

Language SkillsAbility to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, construction plans, operating and maintenance instructions, customer testing specifications, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of organization.

Mathematical SkillsAbility to calculate figures and amounts and apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.

Reasoning AbilityAbility to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions, data and details furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations Valid Driver's License, clean driving record and ability to pass a drug test. ACI Concrete Field Testing Certification - Grade 1 Current industry certifications for materials testing or construction testing required or be able to obtain within 9 months of employment: MNDOT Aggregate Production, MNDOT Grading and Base Level 1, MNDOT Bituminous Street Level 1. Additional MnDOT

Certifications preferred, however, not required. ICC Certifications preferred, however, not required. NICET Certifications preferred, however, not required.

Physical Demands Frequency of required physical force: Occasional (moderate). Lifting requirements: lifting <50 lbs. often and > 50 lbs. sporadically. Ability to stand on feet for long periods of time. Work is primarily performed outdoors and may include walking on uneven terrain. Ability to work in all weather types and conditions.

Other Skills and Abilities Ability to operate a company vehicle within company policy. A valid driver's license and safe driving record is required. Knowledge of Construction techniques, testing & construction management preferred. Ability to document completed jobs including notes on client contacts, action in the field, subsequent laboratory test with dates and times noted for review purposes. Ability to maintain a tactful attitude and maintain good relationships with project engineers, owners, and contractors. Ability to talk knowledgably to project engineers and/or contractors about the jobs as required regarding concerning work progress and necessary recommendations. Ability to accurately and fluently convey thoughts orally and in writing. Proficiency in Microsoft Applications (Word, Excel) Understanding of Nuclear Density Gauge Radiation Safety. Availability, flexibility, and maturity to represent the company at a broad range of events in the community, with customers and within the company. The successful candidate will be encouraged to expand their skills and certifications through company provided training and mentoring. Work under the direction of senior engineering assistants or staff professionals and project managers.

Company Overview

Element is one of the fastest growing testing, inspection and certification businesses in the world. Globally we have more than 9,000 brilliant minds operating from 270 sites across 30 countries. Together we share an ambitious purpose to 'Make tomorrow safer than today'.

When failure in use is not an option, we help customers make certain that their products, materials, processes and services are safe, compliant and fit for purpose. From early R&D, through complex regulatory approvals and into production, our global laboratory network of scientists, engineers, and technologists support customers to achieve assurance over product quality, sustainable outcomes, and market access.

While we are proud of our global reach, working at Element feels like being part of a smaller company. We empower you to take charge of your career, and reward excellence and integrity with growth and development.

Industries across the world depend on our care, attention to detail and the absolute accuracy of our work. The role we have to play in creating a safer world is much bigger than our organization.

Diversity Statement

At Element, we always take pride in putting our people first. We are an equal opportunity employer that recognizes diversity and inclusion as fundamental to our Vision of becoming "the world's most trusted testing partner".

All suitably qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective work related criteria and without regard for the following: age, disability, ethnic origin, gender, marital status, race, religion, responsibility of dependents, sexual orientation, or gender identity or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws.

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c) 

"If you need an accommodation filling out an application, or applying to a job,  please email Recruitment@element.com"

Employment Type: OTHER

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