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Materials Testing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Materials Special Inspector

Carson, CA · On-site

Perform field and/or laboratory testing, observation, and inspection of construction materials (e.g. soils, aggregates, concrete, asphalt, and steel). Communicate with project manager, engineering ...

TERRACON

Materials Special Inspector

Gardena, CA · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Perform field and/or laboratory testing, observation, and inspection of construction materials (e.g. soils, aggregates, concrete, asphalt, and steel). Communicate with project manager, engineering ...

SpaceX

Materials R&D Technician - Level 4/5

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$45.50 - $58/hr

MATERIALS R&D TECHNICIAN - LEVEL 4/5 This individual will be a key team member focusing on daily ... Perform mechanical testing (tensile, fatigue, compression, etc.) with metals, polymers, or ...

Carbon, Inc.

Materials Technician

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$33.32/hr

Testing & Analysis: Set up, run, and record results from routine materials tests (including mechanical, thermal, and rheological testing). * Documentation: Maintain accurate, up-to-date lab notebooks ...

SpaceX

Materials R&D Technician

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$35 - $44/hr

MATERIALS R&D TECHNICIAN This individual will be a key team member focusing on daily lab operations ... Perform mechanical testing (tensile, fatigue, compression, etc.) with metals, polymers, or ...

Vulcan Materials

Asphalt Specialist

Vallejo, CA · On-site

Verifies outside construction materials testing laboratory results and maintains accurate, timely records of test data, product quality, and defective materials. * Assists and trains QC technicians.

SpaceX

Materials R&D Technician - Level 4/5

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$45.50 - $58/hr

MATERIALS R&D TECHNICIAN - LEVEL 4/5 This individual will be a key team member focusing on daily ... Perform mechanical testing (tensile, fatigue, compression, etc.) with metals, polymers, or ...

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Materials Testing information

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How much do materials testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,577 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Materials Special Inspector

TERRACON

Carson, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Terracon rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 119 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 72 rated business consultants

Job description

Perform field and/or laboratory testing, observation, and inspection of construction materials (e.g. soils, aggregates, concrete, asphalt, and steel). Communicate with project manager, engineering technicians, client representative, contractor's representative and others as applicable regarding the construction site, project requirements, and testing, observation, and inspection requirements and results. Transport material samples with associated identifying documentation to the laboratory for further testing and analysis. Tabulate, prepare, and submit data and observation in the form of written and digital reports as work is performed for daily transmittal to the Terracon Project Manager. Maintain and clean equipment, vehicles and work areas. May assist with scheduling and dispatch of Technicians to project sites. Adhere to strict safety standards.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum 5-10 years of relevant experience or the equivalent in training and related experience.
  • Experience with laptop computer use and Microsoft Word and Excel
  • A valid driver's license with acceptable violation history may be required.

Preferred Qualifications:  Certifications in one or more of the following areas:

  • NICET Level III certification in Construction Materials Testing in two or more of the following categories or NICET Level III in at least one of the following categories: Asphalt, Concrete, Soils.
  • NICET Level III certification in Geotechnical in two or more of the following categories: Construction, Laboratory, Exploration, Generalist
  • ICC certification in two or more of the following categories: Reinforced Concrete, Spray-applied Fireproofing, Structural Masonry, Prestressed/Post-Tensioned Concrete, Structural Steel - Bolting, Structural Steel - Welding.
  • American Welding Society (AWS) Senior Certified Welding Inspector (SCWI)
  • American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Level III certification in one or more of the following areas: Visual Testing (VT), Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), Dye Penetrant Testing (PT), Radiographic Testing (RT), Ultrasonic Testing (UT).
  • Other national, regional, state, and local Materials related certifications requiring experience and written examination will also be considered if deemed appropriate by the Terracon Department Manager.

Required Qualifications:

  • ACI certification in one or more of the following areas:
  • Concrete Field Testing Technician Grade I
  • Concrete Strength Testing Technician

  • Certified in radiation safety and Nuclear Density Gauge operation.

Steel

  • American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI), or
  • Structural Steel and/or nondestructive testing services: ASNT Level II
  • Performs testing, observation, and inspection as directed in accordance with training and the specified procedures.
  • Provides clear documentation of findings and results.
  • Performs basic analysis of data to verify accuracy before communication and submittal to the Project Manager.
  • Communicates information to Project Manager and other personnel as directed by the PM.
  • Has experience and proficiency in multiple areas of field testing and inspection and or laboratory testing
  • Trains lower level technicians
  • May direct and supervise activities of other engineering technicians in the laboratory or on larger field projects.
  • May interact with client and other site personnel on behalf of the Project Manager when directed
  • May assist Project Manager in development of scope for testing and inspection services
  • Maintains equipment operation and calibration.
  • Performs advanced fieldwork and assists with project management.
  • Plan, schedule and dispatch Technicians to project sites based on technician skill set, certifications, location, project, and priority.
  • Coordinate pre-dispatch activities with Project, Department, and/or Office Managers.
  • Track projects including contractor site data and status into Construction Materials and Laboratory Management System (CMELMS).
  • Communicate with clients to provide up to date information in regard to the company's ability to meet expected project timelines, client needs for projects and project status.
  • Follow safety rules and practices and other safety requirements for all projects. Performs pre-task planning prior to executing work. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.

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