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Materials Testing information

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$21

$31

How much do materials testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for materials testing in California is $21.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $24.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a materials tester, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Materials Tester, you need a solid understanding of materials science, quality control procedures, and data analysis, often supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory testing equipment, industry standards (such as ASTM or ISO), and relevant certifications like ACI or ASNT are typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective communication are critical soft skills in this role. These competencies are essential for ensuring accurate test results, maintaining safety standards, and supporting product quality and compliance.

What is the difference between Materials Testing vs Materials Laboratory Technician?

AspectMaterials TestingMaterials Laboratory Technician
CertificationsOften requires certifications like NDT or ASTM standardsMay hold similar certifications, focusing on lab procedures
Work EnvironmentTesting labs, industrial sites, manufacturing facilitiesLaboratories, quality control departments
Job FocusPerforming tests to evaluate material propertiesPreparing samples, conducting tests, recording data
Industry UsageConstruction, aerospace, automotive, manufacturingManufacturing, quality assurance, research labs

Materials Testing and Materials Laboratory Technicians both work in testing environments and require similar certifications. Materials Testing professionals often focus on performing specific tests to assess material properties, while Laboratory Technicians handle sample preparation and data recording. Both roles are essential in quality control and research across various industries.

What is materials testing?

Materials testing is the process of evaluating the properties and behavior of materials under various conditions to determine their suitability for specific applications. This can involve testing for strength, durability, hardness, flexibility, and other characteristics. The results help engineers and manufacturers select the right materials for their products and ensure safety, reliability, and compliance with industry standards. Common methods include tensile testing, impact testing, and fatigue testing.

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

Materials testing professionals often encounter challenges such as ensuring the accuracy of test results, managing tight project deadlines, and staying updated with evolving testing standards and technologies. Addressing these issues involves maintaining meticulous attention to detail, continuously calibrating equipment, and participating in ongoing training. Effective communication with engineers and project managers is also vital, as it helps clarify testing requirements and deadlines, ensuring that results are both reliable and timely.

What do materials testing professionals do?

Materials testing professionals evaluate the properties and quality of materials such as metals, plastics, and composites through laboratory tests and analysis. They use specialized equipment to assess strength, durability, and compliance with standards, often working in controlled environments and requiring knowledge of testing procedures and safety protocols.

How to become a materials testing professional?

To become a materials testing professional, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by a degree in materials science, engineering, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions and obtaining certifications such as NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) can enhance job prospects; familiarity with testing equipment and safety protocols is also important.
What are popular job titles related to Materials Testing jobs in California? For Materials Testing jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Materials Testing jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Materials Testing jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Materials Testing jobs? Cities in California with the most Materials Testing job openings:
Materials Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Testing job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,577 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Construction Materials Testing Lab Supervisor/Manager

Apex Testing Laboratories

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Construction Materials Testing Supervisor/Manager (San Francisco)
We are a medium, dynamic engineering firm located in San Francisco seeking a motivated and detail-oriented individual to join our team as a full-time Construction Materials Testing Supervisor/Manager. This position is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, is highly organized, and has a knack for creativity and communication.
Job Description
As the the Materials Testing Laboratory Supervisor , you will play a pivotal role in supporting the day-to-day operations of our firm and driving our technical efforts. Your responsibilities will include managing laboratory tasks, assisting with laboratory campaigns, and fostering strong communication with clients and team members. Oversee the technical and operational aspects of the testing materials like Soil, Concrete, Asphalt and Steel to ensure they meet project specifications and safety standards
Key Responsibilities

  • Personnel Management: Direct oversight of lab staff and technicians, including scheduling samples pick ups, dispatching to sites, and providing technical training and coaching.
  • Operational Oversight: Manage daily laboratory and field activities to ensure testing complies with standards such as ASTM, CCRL, AASHTO, DSA, CA DOT and others.
  • Quality Control (QC): Review, approve, and distribute test reports; evaluate vendor performance; and identify project risks or material failures.
  • Maintenance & Compliance: Ensure lab accreditation is maintained through regular equipment calibration and adherence to safety protocols (e.g., OSHA, ISO standards and others).
  • Client Coordination: Act as a primary contact for clients regarding staffing, timelines, and technical interpretations of test results. 
Common Qualifications & Certifications
  • Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related technical field is typically preferred for senior roles.
  • Experience: Most positions require 5+ years of experience in materials testing, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory capacity.
  • Certifications:
    • ACI (American Concrete Institute): Field Grade 1 or Strength Testing Technician, Aggregate Testing Technician Grade I, Aggregate Base Testing Technician.
    • NICET (National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies): Level I or higher in CMT.
    • Local/Specific: Regional certifications (e.g., Caltrans in California) depending on the project location. 
Typical Working Environments
  • On-Site: Supervisors conduct inspections and oversee technicians in the field, often in variable weather conditions and on rough terrain.
  • Laboratory: Overseeing testing of samples (like compressive strength tests for concrete, Soil and Asphalt Compaction ) in an indoor, controlled environment.
  • Office: Performing administrative duties, such as billing support, proposal preparation, and report writing.

• Scheduling meetings and maintaining calendars.
• Organizing and maintaining lab files and records.
• Ordering lab supplies and ensuring smooth lab operations.
Schedule & Benefits
• Full-time position: 40 hours per week 
• In-office/Lab work required.
• Competitive hourly rate based on experience.
• Simple IRA (401K) Plan 
How to Apply
If you’re enthusiastic about contributing to a growing engineering firm and ready to take on a role that combines Laboratory and field supervision, we’d love to hear from you! Please send your resume and a brief cover letter detailing your experience and availability.
We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome candidates of all backgrounds to apply.


 

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