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Geotechnical Lab Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Scientist

Lodi, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $34.40/hr

The ideal candidate is self-motivated, professional, and capable of managing their workload and ... Working together in the field, office, or lab, we help guide clients through the steps and ...

Showing results 41-46

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 Aug 8, 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 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 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 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 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 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:
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.

Regulatory Compliance Assistant Scientist

TERRACON

Concord, CA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 hours ago


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 is seeking an Environmental Regulatory Compliance Assistant Scientist to join our team in East Bay, California!
This is an excellent opportunity for a highly-motivated individual join a rapidly growing practice and work on local, regional, and national compliance projects across the country. Our senior engineers and scientists are looking for junior level staff to help guide the vision for our Regulatory Compliance Program into the future.
The individual will work on projects in one or more of the service areas below and ideally be familiar with some or all of the general requirements:

  • Stormwater / Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP)
  • Oil Storage / Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) Plans 
  • SARA Title III (Tier II/TRI) reporting
  • Compliance auditing
  • RCRA/Hazardous waste
  • Air permitting (Title V and minor source)
  • Industrial wastewater
  • Hazardous Materials Business Plans (HMBPs)
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.
Our national environmental team helps our clients do the right thing for their projects, and for our planet. Our professionals include environmental architects, archaeologists, biologists, engineers, geologists, historians, industrial hygienists, planners, and scientists. Working together in the field, office, or lab, we help guide clients through the steps and processes to address environmental challenges and move their projects forward as quickly, safely, and sustainably as possible. With services including site assessment, planning and permitting including cultural and natural resources, sustainability and resiliency, regulatory compliance, and industrial hygiene and safety, we're at the forefront of helping clients succeed and communities thrive.
  • Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science or related science field. Or, in lieu of a degree, a minimum of 4 years' related experience.
  • A valid driver's license with acceptable violation history may be required.
  • Demonstrated high level of technical writing ability
  • Excellent analytical and communication skills
  • Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Excel and Word

Preferred Qualification:

  • Certification in field of expertise preferred.
  • Follow safety rules, guidelines and standards for all projects. Participate in pre-task planning. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.
  • Entry level scientific professional responsible for gathering data and information to be evaluated by other team members.
  • Prepare calculations, applications, plans, reports, proposals, and other deliverables.
  • Complete on-site audits and assessments for regulatory compliance for the aforementioned programs.
  • Tabulate and prepare data for written reports.
  • Manage projects and work with current staff to ensure quality and timeliness.
  • Reporting through State and County databases (i.e. SMARTS and CERS).
  • Comfortable working at industrial sites and high traffic or remote areas.
  • Ability to travel (drive or fly) up to 25%.
  • Manage workload to meet deadlines for multiple projects.

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