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Geotechnical Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

NV5

Lab Technician

Riverside, CA

$20 - $25/hr

The Soils and Materials Laboratory technician will perform the geotechnical/materials laboratory ... and other lab related materials. Qualifications * Must have a valid driver's license and an ...

NV5

Lab Technician

Riverside, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

The Soils and Materials Laboratory technician will perform the geotechnical/materials laboratory ... and other lab related materials. Qualifications * Must have a valid driver's license and an ...

Geosoils Inc

Project Geologist

Van Nuys, 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

West Sacramento, CA · On-site

$78K - $104K/yr

We have an extensive geotechnical and materials testing lab in West Sacramento, CA and additional lab capabilities in Sausalito, Fresno, and Escondido. We focus mostly on public works including flood ...

New

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 lab capabilities in Sausalito, Fresno, and Escondido. We focus mostly on public works including flood ...

New

Geosoils Inc

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

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

Project Geologist

Van Nuys, 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 ...

C2Earth, Inc.

Staff Geologist / Engineer

Campbell, CA · On-site

$55K - $90K/yr

A bachelor's degree in Geology, Geological Engineering, or Civil Engineering with a geotechnical focus. * 0-3 years of professional experience (internships and field/lab work count). * Progress ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsGeotechnical Lab JobsGeotechnical Lab Jobs in California

Geotechnical Lab information

See California salary details

$34K

$106.2K

$169.7K

How much do geotechnical lab jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for geotechnical lab 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 a geotechnical lab?

A geotechnical lab is a specialized facility where soil, rock, and other earth materials are tested to determine their physical and mechanical properties. These labs play a crucial role in civil engineering projects by analyzing samples to assess stability, strength, permeability, and other characteristics important for construction and foundation design. Geotechnical labs use various standardized procedures and equipment to ensure accurate and reliable results that inform safe and effective engineering decisions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a geotechnical lab technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Geotechnical Lab Technician, you need a strong understanding of soil mechanics, laboratory testing methods, and typically an associate degree or relevant certification in civil engineering or geology. Familiarity with specialized lab equipment (such as triaxial and consolidation apparatus), data analysis software, and adherence to ASTM testing standards is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and strong organizational abilities help ensure accuracy and reliability in test results. These skills are crucial for delivering precise data that supports safe and effective engineering and construction projects.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in a geotechnical laboratory, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in a geotechnical laboratory often encounter challenges such as handling complex soil and rock samples, maintaining precise testing procedures, and ensuring data accuracy under tight deadlines. These challenges can be addressed by following strict laboratory protocols, regularly calibrating equipment, and collaborating closely with engineers and field teams to clarify project requirements. Continuous training and open communication within the lab team also help in troubleshooting unexpected issues and maintaining high-quality results.

What is the difference between Geotechnical Lab vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectGeotechnical LabGeotechnical Engineer
CredentialsLaboratory certifications, technical trainingEngineering degree, PE license often required
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, testing soil and rock samplesField and office, designing and analyzing geotechnical projects
Industry UsageSupports geotechnical projects through testingDesigns and manages geotechnical investigations

While both roles are essential in geotechnical engineering, the Geotechnical Lab focuses on testing soil and rock samples in a lab environment, supporting project analysis. The Geotechnical Engineer designs and oversees these investigations, applying engineering principles to ensure safe and effective construction projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Geotechnical Lab jobs in California? The most popular types of Geotechnical Lab jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Geotechnical Lab jobs in California? For Geotechnical Lab jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Geotechnical Lab jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Geotechnical Lab jobs in California are:
Geotechnical Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geotechnical Lab 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.

Lab Technician

NV5

Riverside, CA

$20 - $25/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

NV5 rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

139th of 446 rated engineering

Job description

Overview

NV5 is a provider of engineering and consulting services to public and private sector clients, delivering solutions through six business verticals: Testing, Inspection & Consulting; Infrastructure; Utility Services; Environmental Health Sciences; Buildings & Program Management; and Geospatial Technology. With offices nationwide and abroad, NV5 helps clients plan, design, build, test, certify, and operate projects that improve the communities where we live and work.

As engineers, architects, construction/program managers, environmental professionals and beyond, we play a significant role in shaping our communities through the services we provide. We are looking for passionate, driven individuals to join our team focused on Delivering Solutions and Improving Lives.

The Soils and Materials Laboratory technician will perform the geotechnical/materials laboratory testing in compliance with industry applicable standards such as ASTM, AASHTO and Caltrans Test Methods.

This role is part-time. 

Responsibilities
  • Perform materials testing on soils, asphalt, concrete, reinforcing steel, high-strength bolts, and structural steel.
  • Ability to make good decisions using sound, professional judgment with minimal supervision.
  • Physical ability to perform labor-intensive work including but not limited the safe handling and transport of concrete samples, soil samples, and other lab related materials.
Qualifications
  • Must have a valid driver's license and an insurable driving record.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office (Word and Excel)

The pay range for this California position is $20.00-$25.00 per hour; however, base pay offered may be higher or lower depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience of the candidate. Restricted stock units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. This information is provided per California Senate Bill 1162. Base pay information is based on market location. Applicants should apply via the NV5 careers site. 

NV5 offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental, life insurance, PTO, 401(k) and professional development/advancement opportunities.

NV5 provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. NV5 complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Employment Type: OTHER

What NV5 employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About NV5

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NV5 is a renowned company based in Los Angeles, CA, US, that operates in the architecture, engineering, and consulting industry. Officially established in 2009, this company provides technical engineering and consulting solutions that cater to public and private sectors globally. The firm is adept in a wide range of services, including infrastructure, energy, construction, program management, and environmental services. As part of its mission, NV5 seeks to deliver solutions that enhance communities and safeguard the environment meticulously.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

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