Concrete Laboratory Technician

At UES, we’re a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose—to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more.

About the role

UES is seeking a dependable and motivated Concrete Laboratory Technician to join our Houston laboratory team. This entry-level role is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on work and takes pride in accuracy, consistency, and safety. No previous laboratory experience is required—we provide the training needed to succeed. As a Concrete Laboratory Technician, you will support our Construction Materials Testing (CMT) operations by receiving, logging, labeling, curing, and testing concrete cylinders in accordance with ASTM standards, including compressive strength testing (ASTM C39). You will play an important role in delivering accurate test results that help ensure the quality and safety of construction projects throughout the region.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine laboratory testing on concrete and other construction materials in accordance with ASTM, AASHTO, and other applicable industry standards to ensure compliance with project specifications and quality requirements.
• Receive, log, label, cure, and prepare concrete cylinders for testing, including performing compressive strength testing (ASTM C39) while maintaining proper sample identification and traceability throughout the testing process.
• Ensure project testing requirements are completed accurately and in compliance with project specifications, client requirements, and company policies and procedures.
• Accurately document, review, and report test results, maintaining detailed, organized, and error-free laboratory records and testing documentation.
• Assist with sample preparation, handling, curing, and proper storage, ensuring sample integrity, chain of custody, and adherence to established laboratory procedures.
• Operate, maintain, and properly care for laboratory testing equipment, ensuring equipment is clean, functional, and ready for daily testing activities.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment by following established housekeeping practices, strict safety protocols, and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Communicate effectively with laboratory supervisors, engineers, field personnel, and project managers by providing timely updates on testing progress, sample status, test results, and any equipment or technical issues.
• Support daily laboratory operations by assisting teammates with workload demands and performing additional duties as assigned to help meet project schedules and production goals.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or technical coursework in engineering, geology, construction science, or a related field preferred.
• 0-3 years of experience in construction materials testing, geotechnical laboratory work, or a related field (prior laboratory experience preferred but not required).
• Commitment to workplace safety, following OSHA, company, and laboratory safety protocols, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Basic computer proficiency, with experience in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and Field Data Collection (FDC) software preferred.
• Ability to read, write, and interpret procedures, manuals, technical documents, and reports related to construction materials testing and laboratory protocols.
• Mathematical skills sufficient to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate with colleagues, supervisors, field personnel, and clients to carry out instructions and report findings.
• Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Detail-oriented and quality-focused, ensuring accuracy in sample preparation, testing procedures, and data documentation.
• Ability to work independently within the limitations of experience, using initiative to solve routine lab challenges.
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time and perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting and moving materials or equipment.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record; ability to travel to job sites as needed.

Travel Requirements

This position does not require regular travel as part of its primary responsibilities. However, occasional travel may be required, up to 10%, primarily for occasional off-site meetings, training sessions, or company events. Travel, when necessary, will be communicated in advance and aligned with business needs.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Work is sometimes conducted in a laboratory setting, but may also involve fieldwork and exposure to outdoor conditions, including:
  • Sites that may not be accessible by vehicle, requiring travel on foot through wetlands, swamps, grasslands, construction zones, and other uneven or rugged terrain with natural and man-made obstacles such as sand, brush, and debris.
  • Moderate to loud noise levels due to lab equipment, field operations, and construction environments.
  • Exposure to dirt, dust, chemicals, sun, heat, humidity, and varying weather conditions as part of field sample collection and testing.
• Physical requirements include:
  • Ability to lift and carry between 35 and 75 lbs. over distances up to 75 feet, involving regular repetitive motion.
  • Ability to stand, walk, drive, and operate laboratory and field equipment for extended periods.
  • Frequent use of hands and arms for typing, handling samples, operating lab instruments, and performing testing procedures.
  • Ability to bend, twist, reach, stoop, pull, kneel, climb, balance, lift, carry, and push as required for laboratory and fieldwork.
  • Ability to communicate effectively through verbal and written means in a lab and field environment, often requiring the use of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment).
  • Ability to use your senses to see (including close, distant, and peripheral vison, depth vision, and ability to focus) and smell.