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Materials Testing Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

CMT Staff Project Manager

Buffalo Grove, IL ยท On-site

$54K - $62K/yr

The Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Staff Project Manager I supports construction materials testing projects through technical analysis, reporting, and project coordination activities. This role ...

CMT Staff Project Manager

Buffalo Grove, IL ยท On-site

$54K - $62K/yr

The Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Staff Project Manager I supports construction materials testing projects through technical analysis, reporting, and project coordination activities. This role ...

Materials Lab Technician

Moline, IL ยท On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Conduct material testing such as wear testing, hardness testing and microstructure imaging and compile results into presentable reports through Lab Work Request System. * Collaborate with other ...

Ceramic Materials Engineer

Oak Brook, IL ยท On-site +1

$99K - $119K/yr

Experience with materials testing, characterization techniques, or qualification programs. * Ability to analyze technical data and communicate engineering conclusions. * Strong analytical and problem ...

Conduct product and process testing, including development of new test methods. Perform failure analysis on components and materials to identify root causes. Create and execute testing plans using ...

Showing results 21-40

Materials Testing information

See Illinois salary details

$9

$21

$30

How much do materials testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for materials testing in Illinois is $21.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.17 and $24.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

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.

Is construction materials testing a good career?

Construction materials testing is a stable career that involves evaluating the quality and safety of building materials using tools like microscopes and testing machines. It often requires certifications and knowledge of industry standards, with opportunities in construction, engineering, and quality assurance fields.
Infographic showing various Materials Testing job openings in Illinois 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 $44,751 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

CMT Staff Project Manager

ECS Ltd

Buffalo Grove, IL โ€ข On-site

$54K - $62K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Supports management of construction materials testing projects, including reviewing daily field reports and assisting with issue resolution

  • Assists with project budgeting, invoicing, change orders, and collection efforts

  • Performs or assists with laboratory testing, soil classification, and materials evaluation


Job description

Responsibilities
ECS Limited is offering a unique opportunity for a talented Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Staff Project Manager I to join our Buffalo Grove field services team and advance in a dynamic work environment. The Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Staff Project Manager I supports construction materials testing projects through technical analysis, reporting, and project coordination activities. This role is both office- and field-based, and involves assisting with project execution, budgeting, and documentation. The CMT Staff Project Manager I develops technical and project management skills while maintaining a positive customer service attitude and demonstrating ECS Core Values.
Responsibilities
  • Supports management of construction materials testing projects, including reviewing daily field reports and assisting with issue resolution
  • Assists with project budgeting, invoicing, change orders, and collection efforts
  • Supports preparation of proposals and project documentation
  • Performs or assists with laboratory testing, soil classification, and materials evaluation
  • Supports and performs testing of soils, foundations, reinforced and post-tensioned concrete, masonry, structural steel, fireproofing, and asphalt
  • Reviews field reports and supports documentation of project data
  • Assists with training and coordination of field staff on assigned projects
  • Performs task-based work across various stages of the project lifecycle, from proposal through closeout
  • Communicates with project teams, contractors, and field personnel
  • Performs other technical and project support duties as assigned

Career Development
As your experience grows, ECS will:
  • Support you in enhancing your professional skills to advance and grow with us.
  • Encourage participation in internal and external training programs and certification opportunities.
#LI-BP1
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • 0 years of related experience
  • Bachelor of Science in any of the multi-disciplined Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering and Management, Materials Science Engineering, Architectural Engineering, and Geology
  • A professional license is not required in this position, but it is necessary to progress in your career
  • If driving for or on behalf of any ECS subsidiary, a valid driver's license is required
  • Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
  • Dependable, self-motivated, and detail-oriented work ethic
  • Ability to work effectively in teams and independently
  • Limited knowledge of CMT principles and applications
  • Limited knowledge of ASTM standards and testing procedures
  • Developing project management and organizational skills
  • Basic understanding of construction processes and materials behavior

Military Qualifications:
  • The following US Military ranks will qualify for this position IF they also meet the education and licenses requirements from the above section titled "Required Qualifications":
    • E-5

The expected pay range for this role and location is $54k - $62k/year. The final agreed-upon compensation will be determined based on specific location and other individual qualifications.
About Us
ECS Group of Companies (ECS) was founded in 1988 with the goal to raise the standards of professional engineering consulting. Today, we are a leader in geotechnical, construction materials, environmental and building science + infrastructure consulting services. We are employee-owned with more than 3,00 employees in 100+ offices and testing facilities coast to coast. ECS is currently ranked #60 in Engineering News-Record's Top 500 Design Firms (April 2026), #148 in Engineering News-Record's Top 200 Environmental Firms (October 2025) and #38 in Zweig Group's Hot Firm List (June 2026). For additional information about ECS, visit: www.ecslimited.com.
ECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To learn more, click here.