Field & Laboratory Testing Technician

Job Description

Field & Laboratory Testing Technician | Terracon

The Tone:
Terracon, a 100% employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm established in 1965, builds a strong reputation in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. This role directly contributes to critical engineering projects nationwide by ensuring the quality and integrity of construction materials. The Field & Laboratory Testing Technician will work closely with experienced professionals, technicians, and project managers, gaining hands-on experience and supporting essential project execution. This position offers a dynamic opportunity for aspiring professionals to develop a career path in materials testing and engineering consulting.

The TL;DR
• Role: Entry-Level Field & Laboratory Testing Technician
• Location: In-person, Woodbridge, VA
• Team: Works with experienced professionals, other field and/or laboratory personnel, project managers, and professional staff within a multidiscipline firm.
• Mission: Ensures the quality and integrity of construction materials used in critical engineering and technical projects.

What You’ll Actually Do
• Perform Testing: Execute field and laboratory tests on various construction materials, including concrete, soil, asphalt, and aggregates. This involves strictly following established ASTM, AASHTO, and client-specific procedures for tasks like density, moisture content, compaction, concrete slump, air content, and sample preparation.
• Provide Support: Actively support other field and laboratory personnel with diverse tasks, aiding in complex test setups, data collection, and report preparation to ensure project efficiency.
• Manage Logistics: Efficiently transport equipment, material specimens, and important documents to various locations such as field sites, laboratories, client offices, or other Terracon branches, while providing physical assistance for equipment setup and breakdown at job sites.
• Maintain Standards: Take responsibility for cleaning and maintaining testing equipment, company vehicles, and designated work areas within the laboratory and field, ensuring a safe and organized working environment.
• Develop Professionally: Proactively engage in learning and assume a progressively increased role in training and responsibility through a structured development path, encompassing new testing methods, complex equipment operation, and project specifications.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Student currently enrolled in a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree program in a science or a related engineering field, such as Environmental Science, Safety, Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Chemistry, Biology, or Geology. The ideal candidate will have less than one year remaining to complete their BS degree.
• Experience: This is an entry-level position that offers hands-on experience for aspiring professionals, with no prior specific professional experience required beyond the academic background.
• Skills:
• Strong aptitude for science and its practical application.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in performing tests and recording data.
• Ability to follow instructions meticulously and work effectively in a team environment.
• Basic understanding of safety protocols required in both laboratory and field settings.