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Material Testing Lab Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Triple-S Steel

Quality Control Tech

Houston, TX · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Paid Holidays Material testing * Compliance to ASTM, ASME, and other standards as required by our customers * Operation of the Specimen Testing Lab * Sample Prep * Physical Testing * Record Keeping M.

Triple-S Steel

Quality Control Tech

Houston, TX · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Paid Holidays Responsibilities Material testing * Compliance to ASTM, ASME, and other standards as required by our customers * Operation of the Specimen Testing Lab * Sample Prep * Physical Testing

GP&C

Composite Materials & Process Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$85 - $125/hr

Perform material testing and characterization to verify mechanical, thermal, and environmental ... Lab and office‑based role with visits to manufacturing sites as needed. * Stand or walk for ...

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How much do material testing lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for material testing lab in Houston, TX is $21.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $23.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a material testing lab?

A Material Testing Lab is a specialized facility where various materials—such as metals, plastics, ceramics, and composites—are tested to determine their physical and mechanical properties. These tests help ensure that materials meet required standards for strength, durability, safety, and performance before they are used in manufacturing or construction. Common tests include tensile strength, hardness, impact resistance, and chemical analysis. Material Testing Labs are essential in industries like construction, automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing to verify quality and compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a material testing lab, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in material testing labs often encounter challenges such as handling tight project deadlines, maintaining the accuracy and calibration of testing equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. Staying organized and following detailed procedures are key to managing workloads efficiently and producing reliable results. Effective communication with engineers, production teams, and quality assurance staff is essential for interpreting results and troubleshooting issues. Regular training and keeping up with advancements in testing technology can also help address these challenges and support career growth in the field.

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

To thrive as a Material Testing Lab Technician, you need a solid understanding of material science, laboratory procedures, and quality control standards, often backed by a degree or certification in materials engineering or a related field. Familiarity with testing equipment such as universal testing machines, spectrometers, and data analysis software is commonly required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure accurate testing, reliable results, and clear reporting, which are vital for maintaining product quality and safety standards.

What is the difference between Material Testing Lab vs Material Inspector?

AspectMaterial Testing LabMaterial Inspector
CredentialsTypically requires certifications in materials testing, quality control, or related fieldsOften requires certifications in inspection, quality assurance, or specific industry standards
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting with testing equipment and controlled conditionsOn-site inspections at construction sites, manufacturing plants, or facilities
Employer & IndustryTesting laboratories, construction, manufacturing, and engineering firmsConstruction companies, manufacturing plants, quality assurance departments

While both roles focus on ensuring material quality, Material Testing Lab professionals primarily conduct laboratory tests to analyze material properties, whereas Material Inspectors perform on-site inspections to verify compliance with standards. Both roles are essential for quality assurance in construction and manufacturing industries.

How do you become a material testing lab?

To establish a material testing lab, you need to obtain relevant certifications such as ISO/IEC 17025, acquire specialized testing equipment, and hire trained personnel with expertise in materials science and testing procedures. Compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements is essential for operation and credibility.

Is construction material testing a good career?

Construction material testing is a stable career that involves evaluating materials like concrete, soil, and asphalt to ensure safety and compliance with standards. It requires knowledge of testing methods, often using specialized equipment, and may require certifications such as NICET or ASTM. The field offers opportunities for advancement and steady employment in the construction and engineering industries.

What are popular job titles related to Material Testing Lab jobs in Houston, TX?

For Material Testing Lab jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Material Testing Lab jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Material Testing Lab jobs in Houston, TX are:

Material Testing Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Material Testing Lab job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,753 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Construction Material Testing Technician

Universal Engineering Sciences

Houston, TX • On-site

$15.25 - $21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Perform field testing on construction materials including soil compaction, concrete slump, air content, temperature, and cylinder sampling

  • Collect samples for laboratory testing and deliver them to the laboratory following proper chain-of-custody protocols

  • Prepare clear and concise daily field reports and submit documentation in a timely manner

Universal Engineering Sciences rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

417th of 453 rated engineering

Job description

Overview
At UES, we're a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose-to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more. Learn more about the benefits of joining Team UES and our core values at careers.teamues.com.
Position Overview
We're hiring a Construction Material Testing Technician to join our team and support engineering, construction, and environmental projects. In this hands-on role, you'll perform inspections, materials testing, and sampling to ensure quality and safety on job sites.
This position is ideal for someone who is detail-oriented, safety-focused, and enjoys working outdoors. We offer training, growth opportunities, and a clear path for career advancement in a dynamic industry.
To learn more about the important work our Field Technicians perform, here's a short video: UES Field Technician
Ready to start building your career? Apply today and take the first step toward growing with UES.
Responsibilities
  • Perform field testing on construction materials including soil compaction, concrete slump, air content, temperature, and cylinder sampling.
  • Conduct density testing using nuclear gauges or sand cone methods.
  • Observe and document field activities in accordance with project specifications and applicable standards (e.g., ASTM, AASHTO).
  • Collect samples for laboratory testing and deliver them to the laboratory following proper chain-of?custody protocols.
  • Prepare clear and concise daily field reports and submit documentation in a timely manner.
  • Communicate field findings and potential issues with project managers, engineers, and contractors.
  • Ensure equipment is calibrated, maintained, and used properly in accordance with quality control standards.
  • Comply with safety regulations and maintain a safe work environment on-site and in the lab.
  • Vehicle maintenance, inspection, and adherence to safety policies and procedures
  • Other duties may be assigned

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED required; Associate's degree or relevant technical training preferred.
  • 3 years of relevant field experience in construction materials testing or related discipline.
  • Ability to read and interpret construction plans and technical specifications.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel).
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, work in outdoor conditions, and travel between job sites.
  • Ability to read and interpret construction documents and perform general civil engineering calculations
  • Ability to accurately complete field-testing paperwork and detailed figures
  • Knowledge of construction materials testing methods, ASTM standards, and soil classifications
  • Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions
  • Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers and the general public
    Travel Requirements
    This position requires extensive travel, approximately up to 70% of the time, in support of business objectives and client engagements. Travel may be both scheduled and on short notice, depending on project needs. Destinations typically include job sites, field locations, or regional offices, where work may be conducted in outdoor or operational environments. Adherence to all company safety protocols and use of PPE is required during travel and on-site work.
    Physical Demands & Work Environment
    • Work normally performed outside includes exposure to weather conditions such as precipitation, extreme cold or heat, dusty and noisy work environments.
    • The physical requirements for this position may include and are not limited to:
      • Ability to lift and/or carry up to 40 lbs
      • Ability to stand and walk for long periods of time as well as drive long distances
      • Frequent use of hands and arms for typing, telephone
      • Ability to bend, twist, reach, stoop, pull, kneel, lift, carry, and push repetitively
      • Ability to speak and hear effectively to communicate sometimes with noisy environments
      • Ability to see, smell, hear and touch as well as reach, climb or balance, crouch, stoop, crawl, kneel and sit
      • Ability to regularly lift and/or move/shake up to 40lbs. (soil and/or concrete tests and related apparatus); frequently lift and/or move up to 60lbs. (soil and sand samples, and nuclear density equipment); and occasionally move more than 100lbs. (such as a loaded wheelbarrow of concrete samples)

    EEO Statement
    UES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is proud to recruit the most qualified candidates. Please see our full EEO Statement at the bottom of the page here

    • What Universal Engineering Sciences employees say

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    Benefits

    Hours and flexibility

    Workplace

    Get the full story on Breakroom

    Universal Engineering Sciences logo

    About Universal Engineering Sciences

    Sourced by ZipRecruiter

    Universal Engineering Sciences, based in Orlando, FL, US, is a reputable name in the field of geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, construction materials testing, and inspection services. With an impressive industry presence of over six decades since its establishment in 1964, Universal Engineering Sciences specializes in providing engineering consulting services that effectively address multiple civil, structural, and geotechnical challenges. Their extensive service portfolio includes environmental assessments, field testing services, laboratory testing services, and quality control consulting, among others. As a stalwart advocate of integrity, excellence, service, and people, Universal Engineering Sciences takes pride in delivering exceptional services that realize their mission of setting industry standards through technical superiority and efficient communication.

    Industry

    Construction

    Company size

    1,001 - 5,000 Employees

    Headquarters location

    Orlando, FL, US

    Year founded

    1964

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