Entry Level Soil Testing Lab Jobs Near Me

This Lab Technician role supports a growing materials testing team by performing laboratory testing on soil, concrete, aggregates, and related construction materials. The position ensures construction projects meet quality and performance standards across transportation and infrastructure projects. You will contribute to reliable testing, field quality control support, and laboratory analysis while working closely with engineers, technicians, and project teams throughout the construction process.

Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory testing on soil, concrete, and aggregate samples, including moisture content, density, compressive strength, and gradation testing.
• Prepare, label, and track incoming samples to ensure accurate identification and traceability throughout the testing process.
• Ensure proper storage and curing of materials prior to testing to maintain sample integrity and meet testing requirements.
• Accurately record test data and assist with compiling clear, organized reports for engineers and project teams.
• Operate laboratory equipment safely and efficiently, including setting up, running tests, and monitoring performance.
• Clean and calibrate laboratory equipment regularly to maintain accuracy, consistency, and reliability in testing results.
• Follow standardized test procedures in accordance with ASTM, ACI, and internal guidelines to ensure compliance with project specifications.
• Support quality control efforts by identifying inconsistencies or issues in materials and promptly communicating findings to engineers or supervisors.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment while adhering to company safety protocols and procedures.
• Collaborate with field technicians and project teams to coordinate sample intake, prioritize work, and meet project turnaround times.
• Assist in managing laboratory supplies and materials to ensure testing can be performed efficiently and without interruption.
• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts by suggesting enhancements to testing processes, documentation, or lab organization.

• Prior geotechnical or materials testing laboratory experience with soils, aggregates, concrete, and related materials.
• Hands-on experience performing soils testing, concrete testing, and aggregate testing in a laboratory environment.
• Familiarity with standardized test procedures in accordance with ASTM and American Concrete Institute (ACI) guidelines.
• Ability to operate, clean, and calibrate laboratory equipment used for soil, concrete, and aggregate testing.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills for accurate sample labeling, tracking, and data recording.
• Ability to accurately record test data and assist in compiling reports for engineers and project teams.
• Capability to identify inconsistencies or issues in materials and communicate findings clearly to engineers or supervisors.
• High school diploma or equivalent education.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe, clean, and organized laboratory environment.

• Relevant certifications such as ACI (American Concrete Institute) certification are preferred.
• NICET certification in materials testing or a related discipline is preferred.
• Certification or experience with Nuclear Density Gauge operation is preferred.
• Certification or specialized training in aggregate testing is preferred.
• Experience working in a geotechnical or construction materials testing environment.
• Experience supporting transportation and infrastructure projects through laboratory testing and quality control.
• Ability to work collaboratively with engineers, field technicians, and project teams.
• Strong communication skills for coordinating sample intake and reporting results.
• Willingness to work variable schedules, including weekends, based on project demands.

Work is performed 100% in a laboratory environment focused on geotechnical and construction materials testing for transportation and infrastructure projects. The lab uses specialized equipment for soil testing, concrete testing, aggregate testing, and related geotechnical analyses, including devices for measuring moisture content, density, compressive strength, and gradation. The schedule may vary based on time of year and project workload, and weekend work may be required to meet project deadlines. The environment emphasizes safety, organization, and cleanliness, with adherence to company safety protocols and standardized testing procedures. The role offers consistent work within a large engineering-focused setting, providing exposure to a steady flow of projects and collaboration with engineers, technicians, and project teams throughout the construction process.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Columbus, OH.

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $30.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Columbus,OH.

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 9, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.