Soils Lab Technician

About the role

The Soils Lab Technician prepares and tests soil and geotechnical samples, analyzes and documents results, and supports the accurate and safe operation of a soils laboratory. This role plays a key part in ensuring reliable test data, maintaining laboratory equipment, and upholding safety and quality standards in all soil testing activities.

Responsibilities

• Prepare soil and geotechnical samples for a variety of laboratory tests, following established procedures and protocols.
• Perform soil and geotechnical tests, including soil sampling, soil compaction testing, and sieve analyses, with a strong focus on accuracy and repeatability.
• Record test data thoroughly and accurately, ensuring that all measurements and observations are properly documented.
• Analyze test results to identify trends, verify data quality, and support technical reporting and project needs.
• Prepare clear and concise laboratory reports that summarize methods, findings, and conclusions in a professional format.
• Ensure compliance with all laboratory safety procedures, quality standards, and regulatory guidelines throughout testing activities.
• Maintain laboratory equipment by cleaning, calibrating, and performing routine checks to ensure reliable performance.
• Document laboratory procedures and test methods to support consistency, quality assurance, and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with other laboratory staff to prioritize workloads, meet project deadlines, and support efficient lab operations.
• Keep the laboratory workspace organized and clean to promote safety, efficiency, and high-quality work.

Essential Skills

• Hands-on experience with soil sampling techniques and preparation of soil and geotechnical samples for testing.
• Proficiency in soil compaction testing and related geotechnical laboratory methods.
• Ability to perform sieve tests and sieving procedures accurately, including proper use of soils laboratory equipment.
• At least 1 year of experience in soil testing, working in a laboratory setting, or performing geotechnical work.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy when recording, analyzing, and reporting laboratory data.
• Ability to follow established laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and quality standards consistently.
• Effective written communication skills for preparing clear and professional laboratory reports.
• Basic understanding of laboratory operations and best practices in a soils laboratory environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor's or associate degree in environmental science, soil science, geoscience, or a closely related field.
• Familiarity with geotechnical concepts and terminology used in soil testing and analysis.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple tests and documentation requirements efficiently.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a laboratory team in a fast-paced, project-driven environment.
• Commitment to continuous learning and improvement in laboratory techniques and geotechnical testing methods.

Work Environment

This position is based in a dedicated soils laboratory and follows a Monday through Friday schedule from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The role requires being on your feet for most of the day while performing tests, handling samples, and working with laboratory equipment. The environment is structured, process-driven, and safety-focused, with an emphasis on accurate data collection, proper use of lab instruments, and maintaining a clean and organized workspace.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $23.00/hr. Individual compensation offered within this range will depend on qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Benefits

• 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)