1

Materials Testing Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Materials Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Position Overview NANO Nuclear Energy is seeking a Materials Engineer to support materials selection, qualification, testing, and performance evaluation for advanced microreactor systems. This role ...

Construction Observer

Peoria, IL · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Perform or schedule/observe onsite construction materials testing. * Coordinate and communicate field construction activities with contractors, designers and/or owner's representative(s). * This role ...

Perform or schedule/observe onsite construction materials testing. * Coordinate and communicate field construction activities with contractors, designers and/or owner's representative(s). * This role ...

Perform or schedule/observe onsite construction materials testing. * Coordinate and communicate field construction activities with contractors, designers and/or owner's representative(s). * This role ...

Materials Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$85K - $215K/yr

Experience with materials characterization techniques such as microscopy, mechanical testing, or thermal analysis. * Experience using engineering analysis tools, MATLAB, Python, or data analysis ...

New

Certified Welding Inspector

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$27.50 - $37.50/hr

Our broad service offering includes construction materials testing, geotechnical engineering services, environmental engineering, industrial hygiene, and specialty testing. What are we looking for?

Construction Inspector

Belleville, IL · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Perform construction materials testing including concrete, soils, aggregate, and asphalt testing. * Maintain accurate field records, test results, and quantity calculations. * Coordinate with ...

Perform construction materials testing including concrete, soils, aggregate, and asphalt testing. * Maintain accurate field records, test results, and quantity calculations. * Coordinate with ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Regional consulting firm looking to add a talented Geotechnical Engineer to their Chicago suburb office!


Responsibilities:

  • Prepare geotechnical/construction materials testing proposals
  • Write and review geotechnical/construction testing reports
  • Manage construction testing field techs and field testing activities
  • Find solutions to any field problems that arise
  • 25% of time will be working in the field providing hands-on help
  • Assist with lab testing

 

Requirements:

  • B.S. degree in Engineering with a focus on civil or geotechnical engineering
  • 5+ years of experience
  • PE License
  • Experience with Microsoft Office

 

Salary is commensurate with experience.

 

Successful applicant must be authorized to work in the USA without sponsorship.

 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.

 

Please contact Laura Harrison for further information!

 

www.harrisonconsultingsolutions.com

 

517-906-6926