Concrete Laboratory Technician

About the role

The Concrete Laboratory Technician performs laboratory and field tests on concrete and its constituent materials (cement, aggregates, mixes, etc.) to ensure compliance with specifications and regulatory or industry standards (e.g., ASTM, AASHTO, MI DOT). This role supports quality control, assists in mix design, troubleshoots material issues, and ensures accurate data collection and reporting.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, sample, and test concrete, cement, aggregates, sand, and other materials used in concrete production.
• Perform standard concrete tests such as slump, air content, unit weight, yield, temperature, concrete strength (compression, flexural), setting times, etc.
• Monitor curing of test specimens, control and log curing conditions (temperature, humidity).
• Strip and label specimens, break test samples at required ages.
• Attend field sampling (batch plants, job sites) to collect material samples.
• Ensure all laboratory equipment (e.g., compression machines, curing ovens/tanks, air meters, scales) is properly maintained, cleaned, calibrated, and functioning.
• Follow established calibration schedules and document calibration results.
• Maintain laboratory environment in compliance with safety, quality assurance, and accreditation requirements.
• Accurately record test results, observations, and metadata (e.g., sample ID, time, temperature).
• Enter data into lab information systems or spreadsheets.
• Prepare reports summarizing test outcomes for internal use or for clients, including non-conforming results.
• Assist with investigations when test results do not meet required standards; recommend corrective actions.
• Follow all procedures as defined by company policies and relevant standards (ASTM, AASHTO, and others).
• Maintain documentation required for audits or accreditation (logs, calibration certificates, chain-of-custody, proficiency reports).
• Participate in internal audits, proficiency testing, and external accreditation reviews.
• Identify and escalate material quality issues to supervisor.
• Occasionally perform field tests and inspections (e.g., on job sites, at ready-mix plants).
• Ensure field samples are collected properly and under proper conditions.
• Ensure correct handling and transport of specimens from field to lab.
• Follow all health, safety, environmental, and regulatory guidelines.
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) appropriately.
• Maintain a safe work environment, including clean-up, proper handling of materials, storage, and disposal.
• Assist with other laboratory tasks and duties as needed.
• Order and maintain lab supplies.
• Keep laboratory logs and organize work areas.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical training or coursework in concrete technology/laboratory work is a plus.
• Prior experience working in a concrete or construction materials testing lab preferred.
• Knowledge of ASTM, AASHTO (and/or MI DOT) test methods relevant to concrete and aggregates.
• Basic math skills; ability to interpret specifications and mix designs.
• Good attention to detail and ability to follow written procedures precisely.
• Able to lift/move test specimens and equipment (often 50 lb or more depending on the test).
• Proficiency with computers (data entry, spreadsheets) and lab software.
• Valid driver’s license (if field sampling or plant visits are required).