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Geotechnical Lab Manager Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

AGR LLC

Geotechnical Research Analyst

Mclean, VA · On-site

Operations & Maintenance (Engineering Lab) * Maintain laboratory cleanliness, organization, and ... Research Support & Data Management * Collect, organize, and analyze test data in approved formats ...

ECS Ltd

Structural Investigation Technician

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Daily communication is required with other ECS technicians, project managers, principals, clients ... Today, we are a leader in geotechnical, construction materials, environmental and facilities ...

Triad Engineering

Engineering Technician I

Sterling, VA · On-site

$40K - $45K/yr

... with site supervisors and project managers of issues or deviations from plans and ... lab testing in our officesIf you are looking to join a dynamic team, focused on Safety, Wellness ...

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Geotechnical Lab Manager information

See Virginia salary details

$34.2K

$106.7K

$170.5K

How much do geotechnical lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for geotechnical lab manager in Virginia is $106,672.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,300.00 and $129,400.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Geotechnical Lab jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Geotechnical Lab jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Geotechnical Lab Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geotechnical Lab Manager job openings in Virginia 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 $106,672 per year, or $51.3 per hour.

Geotechnical Research Analyst

AGR LLC

Mclean, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Geotechnical Research Technician (On‑Site)

Location: Turner–Fairbank Highway Research Center, 6300 Georgetown Pike, McLean, VA

Employer: Advanced Global Resources (AGR), LLC.

Position Type: Full-Time, On-Site (no remote authorized)

Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday 8 hours shifts, 7:30 am – 4:00 pm

Clearance: Must meet TFHRC facility access requirements


Hiring immediate with start date within 2 weeks of passing federal background check

About the Role

Join a nationally recognized federal research center supporting geotechnical innovation that directly impacts U.S. transportation infrastructure. As a Geotechnical Research Technician, you will work hands‑on in the FHWA Geotechnical Laboratory, supporting research on soils, foundations, erosion, pavements, and geotechnical materials. You’ll assist engineers, set up and run experiments, install instrumentation, collect data, and help maintain a state‑of‑the‑art research facility.

This role is ideal for mechanically inclined, detail‑oriented individuals who enjoys research testing, technically inclines, data organizer experienced with spreadsheets, and contributing to meaningful national research.


Key Responsibilities

Laboratory Testing & Experiment Support

  • Set up, operate, and break down geotechnical experiments (triaxial, direct shear, resilient modulus, erosion testing, permeability, etc.)
  • Prepare, mix, and fabricate soil specimens using sands, clays, gravels, and engineered materials.
  • Install sensors, reference assemblies, and data acquisition systems for manual and automated readings.
  • Conduct standardized geotechnical tests following ASTM and AASHTO procedures.
  • Document procedures with clear notes, photos, and organized data.

Instrumentation & Field Support

  • Assist with field testing, instrumentation installation, and data collection at off‑site locations.
  • Operate forklifts, cranes, and rigging equipment (training provided).
  • Handle Shelby tube and other sensitive samples to minimize disturbance.

Operations & Maintenance (Engineering Lab)

  • Maintain laboratory cleanliness, organization, and equipment readiness.
  • Support calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of lab equipment.
  • Coordinate logistics, materials, and supplies for ongoing research activities.

Research Support & Data Management

  • Collect, organize, and analyze test data in approved formats.
  • Assist engineers with experimental plans, schematics, and documentation.
  • Contribute to high‑quality research outputs, including internal reports and technical notes.


Required Qualifications

  • Ability to pass a federal background check (no criminal record, pass drug test, either US citizen or non-US citizen who has an authorization to work in the US and resided in the US for the last 3 years, valid drivers license.)
  • Completion of at least two years of technical training in engineering technician skills, electronics, computer science, or related fields (GT‑RT‑1 requirement).
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to work with tools and laboratory equipment.
  • Demonstrated hands‑on experience in a geotechnical laboratory.
  • Knowledge of standard ASTM/AASHTO soil testing methods.
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs and be on your feet for up to 8 hours per day.
  • Strong communication skills and ability to follow detailed technical instructions.
  • Comfortable working with formulas in spreadsheets


Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree within the area of civil engineering or geology.
  • Experience with large‑scale geotechnical testing (triaxial, direct shear, erosion function apparatus, interface shear).
  • Familiarity with instrumentation systems and data acquisition hardware.
  • Experience directing general laborers or assisting engineering staff.
  • Data analysis skills and ability to prepare clear summaries of test results.
  • Forklift or overhead crane experience (training can be provided).



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About AGR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Business management consulting

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Dallas, TX, US

View All AGR Jobs