Electrical & Cement Materials Testing Engineer (Transportation Engineer 3)

About the role

The Electrical & Cement Materials Testing Engineer (TE3) will oversee specialized materials testing programs to ensure the safety, quality, and performance of transportation infrastructure. Key responsibilities include managing laboratory operations, performing and maintaining qualifications in specialized testing procedures, and providing technical guidance and quality assurance support.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations within the Electrical and Cement Laboratories
• Perform and maintain qualifications in specialized electrical and cement materials testing procedures
• Conduct testing of traffic controllers, signal cabinets, UPS systems, and other electrical materials
• Perform verification, confirmation, and forensic testing of cement, blended hydraulic cement, fly ash, slag, natural pozzolans, aggregates, and concrete curing compounds
• Prepare, review, and communicate testing reports and results to project engineers, contractors, local agencies, federal partners, and other stakeholders
• Troubleshoot testing issues, perform diagnostic evaluations, and operate specialized laboratory equipment and environmental testing chambers
• Utilize forklifts, pallet jacks, and safe lifting practices to move, organize, prepare, and manage testing materials and samples
• Assist with scheduling and coordinating activities associated with the Cement Acceptance Program
• Independently schedule, prioritize, and coordinate laboratory testing activities while communicating with contractors, manufacturers, and project partners
• Train, qualify, and support laboratory technicians while ensuring tester qualifications and equipment verifications remain current within an accredited laboratory environment
• Review contract plans, specifications, and submitted materials to verify compliance with project requirements prior to testing
• Oversee equipment calibration, verification, maintenance, and repair activities while coordinating with external vendors as needed
• Provide support to other laboratory sections, serve as backup for section staff, travel to project sites or regional offices for troubleshooting assistance, and participate in meetings and training opportunities

Qualifications

• Workload Management: Ability to work independently, prioritize competing assignments, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Training and Leadership: Ability to supervise, train, and support employees in a laboratory setting
• Technical Equipment Operation: Demonstrated proficiency in reading, understanding, operating, and troubleshooting laboratory instruments and testing equipment
• Materials Testing: Demonstrated ability to perform complex materials testing while ensuring procedural compliance and data accuracy
• Engineering Knowledge: Knowledge of engineering principles, methods, and practices related to materials testing and transportation projects
• Materials Testing Standards: Knowledge of material testing procedures, specifications, and quality requirements
• Communication: Ability to communicate technical information effectively to diverse audiences both verbally and in writing
• Problem Solving: Ability to evaluate complex issues, develop alternatives, and recommend effective solutions
• Technical Adaptability: Ability to select and adapt testing techniques to resolve transportation-related materials testing challenges
• Plan and Specification Review: Knowledge of reviewing engineering plans and specifications for compliance with established standards
• Quality Assurance: Knowledge of laboratory quality assurance practices, accreditation requirements, proficiency programs, and external audits
• Safety Focus: Ability to follow safety requirements and perform work safely in laboratory environments
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others
• Respectful Workplace Practices: Ability to contribute to a work environment that fosters a culture of respect and equal opportunity