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Material Testing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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How much do material testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for material testing in the United States is $22.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is material testing?

Material testing is the process of evaluating the physical and mechanical properties of materials, such as metals, plastics, or composites, to determine their suitability for specific applications. This testing can include assessing strength, durability, hardness, flexibility, and resistance to various stresses. Material testing ensures that materials meet quality standards, safety regulations, and performance requirements in industries like construction, manufacturing, and aerospace. It helps prevent product failures and supports the development of safer, more reliable products.

What is the difference between Material Testing vs Material Inspection?

AspectMaterial TestingMaterial Inspection
CertificationsASTM, ACI, NDT certificationsVisual inspection certifications, NDT certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, testing facilities, construction sitesConstruction sites, manufacturing plants, quality control labs
Primary FocusAssessing material properties and performanceVerifying material quality and compliance
Industry UsageConstruction, manufacturing, aerospaceConstruction, manufacturing, infrastructure projects

Material Testing involves analyzing material properties through laboratory tests to determine strength, durability, and performance. Material Inspection focuses on visually and non-destructively verifying that materials meet specified standards and quality requirements. Both roles are essential in ensuring safety and compliance in construction and manufacturing industries.

What are the five types of material testing?

Material testing involves various methods to evaluate the properties and performance of materials. The five common types are mechanical testing (such as tensile, compression, and hardness tests), chemical testing, thermal testing, non-destructive testing (NDT) like ultrasonic and radiographic testing, and microstructural analysis. These tests help ensure materials meet safety, quality, and performance standards in manufacturing and construction environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Material Testing Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Material Testing Technician, you need a solid understanding of material properties, laboratory testing procedures, and relevant industry standards, typically supported by a degree or certification in materials science or engineering. Familiarity with testing equipment such as universal testing machines, spectrometers, and data analysis software is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong communication skills help ensure accuracy and effective reporting of results. These competencies are vital for maintaining quality control and ensuring materials meet safety and performance requirements in various industries.

Is there a legit product tester job?

Material testing jobs are legitimate roles that involve evaluating the properties and quality of materials such as metals, plastics, or textiles. These positions often require knowledge of testing procedures, tools, and safety protocols, and may involve working in labs or manufacturing environments. Certification or training in quality assurance can enhance job prospects.

How to become a material tester?

To become a material tester, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by training or an associate degree in materials science, engineering, or a related field. Gaining experience with testing equipment and techniques, such as tensile testing or microscopy, is important, and certifications like NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) can enhance job prospects.

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

Professionals in material testing often face challenges such as ensuring sample integrity, meeting tight deadlines, and interpreting complex test results accurately. Maintaining precise environmental conditions and following standardized procedures are crucial to avoid compromised data. Collaboration with engineers and quality assurance teams is common, requiring strong communication skills to translate test findings into actionable insights. Staying updated with new testing methodologies and industry standards also helps address these challenges and ensures reliable results.

What is the highest paying lab technician job?

The highest paying lab technician roles are often in specialized fields such as clinical, industrial, or research laboratories, with positions like biomedical or chemical lab managers earning higher salaries. Advanced certifications, extensive experience, and working in high-demand industries can also increase earning potential for lab technicians.
More about Material Testing jobs
What cities are hiring for Material Testing jobs? Cities with the most Material Testing job openings:
What states have the most Material Testing jobs? States with the most job openings for Material Testing jobs include:
Infographic showing various Material Testing job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,181 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Construction Material Testing Technician

Construction Material Testing Technician

Universal Engineering Sciences

Celina, TX • On-site

$16.50 - $22.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Universal Engineering Sciences rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

341st of 369 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 CMT Field 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

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    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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