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Materials Testing Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Materials Special Inspector

Colton, CA

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

Colton, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $35.50/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 ...

Socotec

Field Technician

Fontana, CA · On-site

We are seeking Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Soil and Concrete Field Technicians to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience performing field testing and inspection of soils ...

Socotec

Field Technician

Irvine, CA · On-site

We are seeking Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Soil and Concrete Field Technicians to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience performing field testing and inspection of soils ...

SOCOTEC

Field Technician

Irvine, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

We are seeking Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Soil and Concrete Field Technicians to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience performing field testing and inspection of soils ...

SOCOTEC

Field Technician

Fontana, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

We are seeking Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Soil and Concrete Field Technicians to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience performing field testing and inspection of soils ...

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All JobsMaterials Testing JobsMaterials Testing Jobs in Riverside, CA

Materials Testing information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$9

$23

$32

How much do materials testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for materials testing in Riverside, CA is $23.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.57 and $26.35 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 Riverside, CA? For Materials Testing jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Materials Testing jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Materials Testing jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Materials Testing jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Materials Testing job openings:
Materials Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Testing job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,179 per year, or $23.2 per hour.
Construction Services (Materials Testing) Project Manager

Construction Services (Materials Testing) Project Manager

Socotec

Irvine, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Company Description

About SOCOTEC:

SOCOTEC is a provider of niche consulting services within the architecture, engineering and construction industries focusing on high-performance buildings and specialty structures. Through an integrated, holistic approach, our professionals provide solutions for building envelope, energy efficiency, sustainability, code advisory and construction advisory projects. 

SOCOTEC offers competitive salary and benefits, mentorship, training, and social activities.

SOCOTEC is proud to announce that it has been officially certified as a Great Place to Work by the renowned global authority on workplace culture, Great Place to Work®.

Job Description

We are seeking a Construction Services (Materials Testing) Project Manager to oversee geotechnical earthwork, special inspection, and construction materials testing projects. This role is responsible for managing project execution, coordinating with clients and project teams, overseeing field and laboratory operations, and ensuring projects are completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with project requirements.

Location: Irvine or Fontana, California (Irvine preferred)

Responsibilities

  • Manage geotechnical earthwork, special inspection, and construction materials testing projects from proposal through project completion.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, contractors, architects, engineers, and project stakeholders.
  • Coordinate field inspection, laboratory testing, and project staffing resources to meet project schedules and client expectations.
  • Manage project budgets, schedules, profitability, and resource allocation.
  • Prepare proposals, fee estimates, scopes of work, and materials quantity take-offs.
  • Review and evaluate field reports, daily inspection reports, laboratory test results, and project documentation.
  • Respond to RFIs and provide technical support related to construction materials testing, inspection, and earthwork activities.
  • Assist clients and project teams in resolving construction-related issues and non-conforming work.
  • Monitor project performance and ensure compliance with company quality assurance standards and project requirements.
  • Coordinate with field technicians, special inspectors, laboratory personnel, and project managers to support successful project delivery.
  • Develop and maintain strong client relationships and identify opportunities for repeat business and project growth.
  • Support business development and marketing efforts through proposal preparation, client meetings, and project pursuits.
Qualifications

Required Qualifications

  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in construction materials testing, special inspections, geotechnical construction services, or a related field with increasing levels of responsibility.
  • Minimum of 2 years of project management experience preferred.
  • Experience managing multiple projects, budgets, schedules, and client relationships.
  • Strong understanding of earthwork, construction materials testing, special inspections, and construction quality assurance/quality control practices.
  • Experience reviewing field reports, laboratory testing results, and construction documentation.
  • Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to effectively manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced construction environment.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Degree in Civil Engineering, Engineering Geology, Materials Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field.
  • Experience with geotechnical engineering, earthwork construction, grading, and foundation-related projects.
  • Familiarity with Southern California construction practices, building codes, and regulatory requirements.
  • Professional certifications such as ICC, ACI, NICET, or related construction inspection and testing certifications.
  • Established relationships within the local engineering, construction, and development community.
  • Experience preparing proposals, cost estimates, and materials quantity take-offs.

Additional Information

Salary range: $110,000-$135,000/year, depending on qualifications

Your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

For more information, please visit www.socotec.us

Job Type: Full-Time

SOCOTEC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

SOCOTEC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.