Entry Level Materials Science Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

Job Title: Intern – Construction Materials Lab Tech 

About Alta Environmental and Infrastructure

Alta Environmental & Infrastructure is one of Arizona’s fastest-growing engineering firms, with nearly 250 employees across the state. We’re 100% Arizona owned and managed, which means you’ll never feel like a number here. Our team delivers a full spectrum of services - civil engineering, surveying, geotechnical and materials testing, environmental, and EHS - giving you exposure to many paths and projects.

Alta is big enough to offer opportunities, and advanced technology - yet small enough that you’ll know your team, see your impact, and have leadership that knows you.

We’re proud to be a trusted partner to some of the nation’s largest corporations, developers, and public agencies - helping to build the future, while also protecting it through environmental stewardship and sustainable solutions.

General Summary:

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Construction Materials Lab Technician to join our materials testing team. This position provides hands-on experience in laboratory and field testing of soils, aggregates, asphalt, and concrete for construction projects. This is an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field to gain practical knowledge and industry experience. The ideal candidate has ACI Concrete Strength, ATTI Soils, and/or ATTI Asphalt certification(s). If not certified, we will train the right candidate who is highly motivated.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform laboratory tests on soils, including moisture content, Atterberg limits, and compaction testing.
• Test aggregates for gradation, specific gravity, absorption, and cleanliness.
• Assist with testing asphalt materials for binder content, gradation, compaction, and stability (Marshall or Superpave methods).
• Conduct tests on concrete, including slump, air content, unit weight, and compressive strength of cylinders.
• Record, compile, and summarize data accurately in compliance with industry standards (ASTM, AASHTO).
• Calibrate and maintain laboratory equipment.
• Follow safety protocols and maintain a clean, organized laboratory environment.
• Assist senior technicians and engineers with project support as needed.

Education, Licenses and Experience:  

• Enrolled in or recently graduated from a degree program in Civil Engineering, Construction Technology, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Strong interest in materials testing and quality control.
• Ability to lift and move materials/equipment up to 50 lbs.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Basic understanding of construction materials and laboratory testing is a plus.
• Valid driver's license (if fieldwork is required).

Work Environment:  

• Indoors, outdoors, extreme weather conditions, including heat, cold, outdoor, sun exposure
• Frequently work on elevated surfaces and/or confined spaces

Why Alta?

See your impact.

How many people can drive by a highway, school, or major company and say, “I helped build that?”

At Alta, every employee can. The work we do is visible in the infrastructure communities rely on every day.

We’re passionate about developing people. Many of our leaders began their journey in entry level positions, and worked their way up into management. We invest in you from day one with hands-on training, paid certifications, and mentorship to help you progress in your career.

Working at Alta means:

• Career mobility: clear paths to grow into leadership roles.
• Multi-disciplinary exposure: civil, survey, geotechnical, materials testing, environmental, EHS, etc.
• Investment in you: paid certifications and ongoing training.
• Culture of belonging: supportive teams where your work is recognized.

• Impact you can see: the chance to contribute to projects that define communities. 

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
• Flexible work environment.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY POLICY STATEMENT. It is the policy of Alta E&I not to discriminate against any applicant for employment, or any employee because of age, color, sex, disability, national origin, race, religion, or veteran status.