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Geotechnical Lab Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

You will communicate with Project Managers, client representatives, contractor's representatives ... Transports materials safely from various job sites to the lab using a company provided full size ...

You will communicate with Project Managers, client representatives, contractor's representatives ... geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners ...

You will communicate with Project Managers, client representatives, contractor's representatives ... Transports materials safely from various job sites to the lab using a company provided full size ...

You will communicate with Project Managers, client representatives, contractor's representatives ... Transports materials safely from various job sites to the lab using a company provided full size ...

You will communicate with Project Managers, client representatives, contractor's representatives ... Transports materials safely from various job sites to the lab using a company provided full size ...

You will communicate with Project Managers, client representatives, contractor's representatives ... lab using a company provided full size pickup truck. Requirements: • High school diploma or ...

You will communicate with Project Managers, client representatives, contractor's representatives ... geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners ...

You will communicate with Project Managers, client representatives, contractor's representatives ... Transports materials safely from various job sites to the lab using a company provided full size ...

You will communicate with Project Managers, client representatives, contractor's representatives ... Transports materials safely from various job sites to the lab using a company provided full size ...

You will communicate with Project Managers, client representatives, contractor's representatives ... Transports materials safely from various job sites to the lab using a company provided full size ...

You will communicate with Project Managers, client representatives, contractor's representatives ... the lab using a company provided full size pickup truck. Qualifications Requirements: • High ...

Geotechnical Lab Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$32.4K

$101.1K

$161.6K

How much do geotechnical lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for geotechnical lab manager in Iowa is $101,060.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,100.00 and $122,600.00 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, and why are they important?

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 are popular job titles related to Geotechnical Lab Manager jobs in Iowa? For Geotechnical Lab Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Geotechnical Lab Manager jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Geotechnical Lab Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Geotechnical Lab Manager job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $101,060 per year, or $48.6 per hour.
Engineering Technician I

Engineering Technician I

TERRACON

Sioux City, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Terracon rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 112 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 57 rated business consultants


Job description

Job Description
Terracon has an opportunity for Construction Materials Technicians to join our team in Sioux City. 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 Des Moines 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.
Responsibilities
Essential Role and Responsibilities:
  • 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.

Qualifications
Requirements:
  • 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

About Us
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.
About the Team
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.

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