ENGINEERING TESTING TECHNICIAN

Exam Number C3859K. Filing period begins Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. (PT) and continues until the position is filled.

About the role

Los Angeles County Public Works is the largest municipal Public Works agency in the nation, serving over 10 million residents. With more than 4,000 employees and over 500 career opportunities, we offer professional growth, a rewarding work environment, and comprehensive benefits. For more details on benefits, visit https://hr.lacounty.gov/benefits/.

Responsibilities

• Collects specimens of soil, aggregates, concrete, and asphalt for accurate testing.
• Evaluates sample data using Greenbook specifications, project specifications, and test data.
• Excavates soil samples using hand tools.
• Conducts laboratory and field tests on construction materials.
• Performs density and compaction tests.
• Performs concrete cylinder strength tests.
• Performs complex physical tests on undisturbed samples.
• Inspects galvanizing, coatings, and reinforcing steel.
• Monitors construction materials.
• Interprets testing and inspection requirements.
• Records test data and inspection results.
• Provides technical guidance to lower-level testing staff.
• Coordinates testing and inspections activities.
• Ensures compliance with applicable laws, regulations, specifications, and testing standards.

For more information, view the Engineering Testing Technician classification specification.

Requirements

• Two years' experience at the level of Engineering Testing Aid III* or equivalent, defined as performing physical, laboratory, and field tests of engineering construction materials.
• A valid California Class C Driver License or the ability to utilize an alternative method of transportation for job-related essential functions.

Physical Class 4 - Arduous: This role involves frequent heavy lifting over 25 pounds, often combined with bending, twisting, or working above ground on irregular surfaces. It may occasionally demand extraordinary physical activity.

*Experience at the level of Engineering Testing Aid III in Los Angeles County involves performing physical, laboratory, and field tests of engineering construction materials. For details, refer to the County of Los Angeles Class Specifications for Engineering Testing Aid III.

You may qualify even if your job title differs, provided your experience involves similar responsibilities, skills, and knowledge within a comparable organizational structure. Clearly explain your experience to demonstrate its equivalence.

Examination Content

The examination consists of two parts:

• Part I (50% weight): Multiple Choice and Simulation Assessment measuring:
  • Achievement
  • Mechanical Comprehension
  • Responsibility
  • Safety Orientation
  • Teamwork
  • Thoroughness
  • Numerical Calculation
• Part II (50% weight): Multiple-Choice test measuring:
  • Professional/Technical Knowledge of Construction Materials and Testing Methods
  • Professional/Technical Knowledge of Testing Equipment and Tools
  • Knowledge of Specifications, Standards, and Inspection Requirements
  • Knowledge of Safety Practices and Regulations
  • Materials Testing Skill
  • Sampling and Specimen Preparation Skill

Applicants must achieve 70% or higher on the combined score of Parts I and II to be placed on the eligible list. Multiple-choice and simulation assessments are not reviewable by candidates per Civil Service Rule 7.19.

Benefits

Los Angeles County offers a comprehensive benefits package. For more information, visit https://hr.lacounty.gov/benefits/.

Additional Information

• Testing Accommodation: If you require an accommodation to compete in the assessment process, you may request it when completing your application. Documentation from a qualified medical provider or professional may be required.
• Transfer of Test Components: If you have taken identical test components recently, your responses may be automatically transferred to this examination. Components from this exam may also be used in future exams.
• Test Preparation: Study guides and resources are available to help prepare for employment tests. Visit https://hr.lacounty.gov/job-search-toolkit/ for more information. Online practice tests are available at SHL Practice Tests, and additional resources can be found at LA County Online Assessment Preparation Series.
• Eligibility and Vacancy Information: Applicants who pass the assessment(s) are placed on an eligible list for 12 months. This list will be used to fill vacancies in Public Works as they occur.

Contact Information:

• Department Contact: Dennis Hughes
• Phone: (626) 458-2141
• Email: PWExams@pw.lacounty.gov
• ADA Coordinator Phone: (626) 458-2141
• Teletype Phone: (626) 282-7829
• California Relay Services: (800) 735-2922