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Materials Testing Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

WSP

Construction Materials Testing (CMT)

Louisville, KY

$17.75 - $24/hr

We are seeking an entry-level Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Technician (T1) to join our growing team and support field operations on a wide variety of construction projects. Your Impact

WSP

Construction Materials Testing (CMT)

Louisville, KY · On-site

$17.75 - $24/hr

We are seeking an entry-level Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Technician (T1) to join our growing team and support field operations on a wide variety of construction projects. Your Impact

HDR

Field/Laboratory Technician I

Paducah, KY · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

HDR is seeking a Field/Laboratory Technician I to perform materials testing on soils, aggregates, concrete, and rock in accordance with ASTM, AASHTO, and other applicable testing standards. This ...

HDR

Field/Laboratory Technician I

Paducah, KY · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

HDR is seeking a Field/Laboratory Technician I to perform materials testing on soils, aggregates, concrete, and rock in accordance with ASTM, AASHTO, and other applicable testing standards. This ...

HDR

Field/Laboratory Technician I

Paducah, KY · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

HDR is seeking a Field/Laboratory Technician I to perform materials testing on soils, aggregates, concrete, and rock in accordance with ASTM, AASHTO, and other applicable testing standards. This ...

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All JobsMaterials Testing JobsMaterials Testing Jobs in Kentucky

Materials Testing information

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How much do materials testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for materials testing in Kentucky is $19.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $21.92 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 material testing?

Material testing is a process used by materials testing professionals to evaluate the properties and performance of materials such as metals, plastics, and composites. It involves techniques like tensile, compression, and impact testing to ensure materials meet safety and quality standards, often requiring specialized equipment and certifications.

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.

Is construction material testing a good career?

Construction material testing is a stable career that involves evaluating the quality and safety of building materials, often requiring knowledge of testing methods and certifications such as NDT or ASTM standards. It offers opportunities in construction, engineering, and quality assurance environments with regular schedules and the need for technical skills. Job prospects depend on industry demand and regional construction activity.

How to become a material tester?

To become a materials tester, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, 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 testers or microscopes, is important, and certifications like NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) can enhance job prospects.

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 highest paying lab technician job?

In materials testing, senior or specialized lab technician roles such as materials testing engineers or quality control managers tend to have the highest salaries. These positions often require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and expertise in testing methods and industry standards, leading to higher compensation compared to entry-level technician roles.
What are popular job titles related to Materials Testing jobs in Kentucky? For Materials Testing jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Materials Testing jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Materials Testing jobs in Kentucky are:
Materials Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Testing job openings in Kentucky as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,110 per year, or $19.3 per hour.
Construction Materials Testing (CMT)

Construction Materials Testing (CMT)

WSP

Louisville, KY

$17.75 - $24/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago

WSP rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 58 rated business consultants

Job description

This Opportunity

At WSP, we are driven by a passion for shaping the communities we serve. Our team supports infrastructure and development projects by providing highquality materials testing and inspection services. We are seeking an entry-level Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Technician (T1) to join our growing team and support field operations on a wide variety of construction projects.

Your Impact

  •  Performing field testing of concrete, soils, and asphalt in accordance with ASTM, AASHTO, and project requirements
  • Collecting, labeling, and transporting construction material samples for laboratory analysis
  • Operating and maintaining field testing equipment, including slump cones, air meters, nuclear density gauges, and compactors
  • Preparing accurate field documentation such as reports, data sheets, photographs, and sample logs
  • Communicating test results and field observations clearly with project managers, contractors, and supervisors
  • Following WSP safety policies, maintaining PPE, and working safely in active construction environments
  • Supporting project teams with additional field assignments as needed

Who You Are

Required Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions
  • Ability to lift 60 pounds routinely (equipment, tools, samples)
  • Ability to walk on uneven ground and stand for extended periods
  • Reliable, punctual, and able to work weekends and occasional night shifts
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record

Preferred Qualifications

  • ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician - Grade I
  • NICET Level I in Soils, Asphalt, or Construction Materials Testing
  • KYTC, ICC, or other state-specific technician certifications
  • Nuclear gauge safety training
  • OSHA 10/30, First Aid/CPR, or comparable safety training
  • Coursework or a degree in Civil Engineering, Geology, Construction Management, or related fields

#LI-LD1

About WSP

WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Dedicated to serving local communities, we are engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 15,000 employees in over 300 offices across the U.S., we partner with our clients to help communities prosper.

www.wsp.com

WSP provides a flexible and agile workplace model while meeting client needs. Employees are also afforded a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career.

At WSP, we want to give our employees the challenges they seek to grow their careers and knowledge base. Your daily contributions to your team will be essential in meeting client objectives, goals and challenges. Are you ready to get started?

WSP USA (and all of its U.S. companies) is an Equal Opportunity Employer Race/Age/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disability or Protected Veteran Status.

The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.

NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:

WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to WSP in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where WSP has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand.  Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of WSP and WSP will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation - no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service. 

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