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Geotechnical Lab Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Geosoils Inc

Be Seen First

Project Geologist

Lake Elsinore, CA · On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

Prepare geotechnical and geologic reports under senior staff supervision * Review lab and field data and support engineering analyses * Coordinate with project managers, subcontractors, and field ...

Geosoils Inc

Be Seen First

Project Geologist

Lake Elsinore, CA · On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

Prepare geotechnical and geologic reports under senior staff supervision * Review lab and field data and support engineering analyses * Coordinate with project managers, subcontractors, and field ...

BlackBurn Consulting

Project Engineer II

Sausalito, CA · On-site

$78K - $104K/yr

We have an extensive geotechnical and materials testing lab in West Sacramento, CA and additional ... Project Managers or Sr. Engineers · Historical and analytical project research · Engages in ...

C2Earth, Inc.

Staff Geologist / Engineer

Campbell, CA · On-site

$55K - $90K/yr

Learn project management fundamentals and client communication while building technical expertise ... geotechnical focus. * 0-3 years of professional experience (internships and field/lab work count)

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All JobsGeotechnical Lab JobsGeotechnical Lab Manager JobsGeotechnical Lab Manager Jobs in California

Geotechnical Lab Manager information

See California salary details

$34K

$106.2K

$169.7K

How much do geotechnical lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for geotechnical lab manager in California is $106,186.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,900.00 and $128,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a geotechnical lab manager do?

A Geotechnical Lab Manager oversees the daily operations of a laboratory specializing in soil, rock, and construction material testing. They coordinate testing procedures, ensure that equipment is properly maintained and calibrated, and supervise lab staff. Additionally, they are responsible for maintaining quality control standards, interpreting test results, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. Their work supports civil engineering projects by providing essential data for design and construction decisions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a geotechnical lab manager?

To thrive as a Geotechnical Lab Manager, you need a solid background in civil engineering or geology, with expertise in soil and material testing, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and significant laboratory experience. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), geotechnical testing equipment, and certifications such as ASTM or AASHTO standards are typically required. Strong leadership, organizational skills, and effective communication set top performers apart in managing teams and ensuring accurate results. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining laboratory quality, ensuring compliance, and delivering reliable data for engineering projects.

What are some common challenges faced by a geotechnical lab manager, and how can they be addressed?

One common challenge for Geotechnical Lab Managers is ensuring the accuracy and reliability of test results while managing a high volume of projects with tight deadlines. Maintaining rigorous quality control procedures and regularly calibrating equipment are essential to meet industry standards. Additionally, effective communication and coordination with field teams and project managers are crucial to clarify testing requirements and adapt to changing project scopes. Building a strong, well-trained laboratory team helps distribute workload efficiently and fosters a collaborative work environment.

What is the difference between Geotechnical Lab Manager vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectGeotechnical Lab ManagerGeotechnical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in geotechnical engineering, geology, or related field; lab management experienceBachelor's or master's degree in geotechnical engineering or geology; engineering licensure may be preferred
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, overseeing testing procedures and lab staffField and office settings, designing projects and analyzing soil data
Industry UsageCommonly employed in geotechnical testing labs within construction, mining, or environmental firmsUsed across consulting firms, construction companies, and government agencies for project design

The main difference is that a Geotechnical Lab Manager oversees laboratory operations and staff, focusing on testing and quality control, while a Geotechnical Engineer designs projects and analyzes soil data. Both roles require relevant technical credentials, but their daily responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Geotechnical Lab Manager jobs in California?

For Geotechnical Lab Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Geotechnical Lab Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Geotechnical Lab Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Geotechnical Lab Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Geotechnical Lab Manager job openings:

Geotechnical Lab Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geotechnical Lab Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $106,186 per year, or $51.1 per hour.

Laboratory Technician

Texas Research International, Inc.

Anaheim, CA • On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist in logging, labeling, and organizing incoming samples.

  • Prepare soil and geosynthetic material specimens for testing, including manual specimen cutting and soil compaction.

  • Set up and conduct physical and mechanical tests according to technical procedures, adjusting testing parameters as needed.

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
TRI Environmental-California (Precision Geosynthetic Laboratories, a division of Texas Research International) is an independent, third-party laboratory providing specialized testing, research, and certification services across five continents. With over 88 years of collective experience, the company serves the geosynthetic, geotechnical, plastic pipe, protective glove, and technical textile industries.
Key responsibilities
Testing & Specimen Preparation
  • Sample Receipt: Assist in the logging, labeling, and organization of incoming samples.
  • Sample Preparation: Prepare incoming soil and geosynthetic material specimens for conformance or direct shear testing, including manual specimen cutting specimens and manual soil compaction.
  • Test Execution: Set up and conduct physical and mechanical tests according to exact technical procedures, adjusting parameters like normal stress, shearing rates, and environmental conditions.
  • Material Analysis: Perform routine quality control tests on incoming material samples, comparing live data against industry norms and standards to assist in interpreting results.

Equipment Operations & Maintenance
  • Machinery Calibration: Set up, verify, and assist in calibrating universal testing and direct shear testing machines as well as other instrumentation, and control equipment.
  • Routine Maintenance: Clean, service, and maintain laboratory equipment to ensure high reliability and minimal operational downtime.
  • Troubleshooting: Rapidly identify, diagnose, and resolve basic equipment malfunctions or software discrepancies that arise during testing.

Data Tracking, Compliance & Administration
  • Data Recording: Maintain accurate and organized test records, lab reports, and data entries. Monitor and accurately log shear force, vertical displacement, and horizontal displacement at specified intervals throughout the testing process.
  • Documentation & Reporting: Compile clear, concise records of test methods, observations, and final data outputs in Microsoft Excel.
  • Quality & Safety Compliance: Maintain a highly organized workspace and strictly adhere to all company QA policies, safety guidelines, and standard operating procedures.
  • Team Collaboration: Assist the Laboratory or R&D Supervisor and project manager with shifting testing requirements, escalate data discrepancies immediately, and provide administrative support for lab supply procurement.

NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE
Requirements
Education & Experience
  • Minimum Education: High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent secondary education.
  • Professional Experience: Minimum of 1 year of work-related experience in a laboratory, construction materials testing (CMT), geotechnical engineering, or a similar mechanical field.
  • Industry Advantage: Prior experience with environmental projects or physical/mechanical testing of Geosynthetic materials and in-plant sampling as well as familiarity with ASTM, ISO , and other relevant industry standards.is a strong plus.

Technical Skills & Abilities
  • Mechanical Aptitude: Strong ability to confidently use hand tools, troubleshoot machinery, and understand basic machine mechanics.
  • Software & Computation: Proficiency with standard computer applications, specifically Microsoft Excel, and the ability to perform basic mathematical calculations.
  • Technical Reading: Ability to read, comprehend, and strictly follow packaged instructions, safety guidelines, and complex technical testing specifications.
  • Communication & Focus: High level of commitment to quality control and attention to detail for exact measurements and record-keeping, alongside effective verbal and written communication skills for team collaboration and reporting.

Physical Requirements
  • Heavy Lifting: Ability to repeatedly lift, carry, and manipulate material and soil samples weighing up to 60 pounds.
  • Manual Dexterity: Fine motor skills and hand dexterity required to carefully handle small, delicate samples and precise lab instrumentation.
  • Stamina & Endurance: Physical stamina to stand for long shifts, work on your feet, or remain at a dedicated testing workstation for extended periods.

Culture & Professional Alignment
  • Commitment to personal and professional development within a collaborative, values-driven team.
  • Deep responsibility for accuracy, data integrity, and strict alignment with company safety and QA policies.

TRI Environmental California is an Equal Opportunity Employer and devoted to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or veteran status.
Salary Description
$22-$26 per hour (DOE)

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