Field and Laboratory Technician

SOCOTEC is expanding its construction materials testing operations in Nashville and is seeking a Field and Laboratory Technician to join our growing team.

This is a hands-on position that will split time between construction project sites and our Nashville laboratory based on workload and project needs. The technician will work directly with the Laboratory Manager and Project Managers while supporting field observation, sampling, testing, and laboratory operations involving soils, concrete, aggregates, and asphalt.

The work directly supports decisions about whether construction materials and completed work meet applicable project specifications and testing standards.

Experience in construction materials testing is preferred, but not required. We welcome candidates who are new to the industry and demonstrate reliability, attention to detail, comfort working with numbers, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn. SOCOTEC will provide training and support qualified candidates in obtaining applicable industry certifications.

Laboratory Responsibilities

Perform laboratory testing of soils, aggregates, concrete, and asphalt in accordance with ASTM, AASHTO, project specifications, and company procedures.

Conduct testing including Proctor compaction, sieve analysis, Atterberg Limits, sand equivalent, uncompacted voids, concrete compression testing, and other standard laboratory procedures.

Perform asphalt testing including ignition oven testing, Marshall and gyratory compaction, maximum theoretical density (Rice), and related test methods.

Receive, sample, split, process, and prepare materials for testing.

Accurately record observations, calculations, and test results and prepare testing reports for Project Managers.

Update laboratory project forms, records, and folders with testing results.

Operate, inspect, clean, and maintain laboratory testing equipment and assist with calibration and verification activities when required.

Prepare data sheets, calculations, reports, and other testing documentation accurately and clearly.

Maintain quality control documentation in accordance with laboratory procedures and accreditation requirements.

Complete assigned laboratory work in a timely manner and in accordance with applicable test methods and project requirements.

Help maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.

Assist with general laboratory operations and special projects as assigned.

Field Responsibilities

Report to assigned project sites at the requested time and perform field testing and observation activities through completion of the assigned work.

Arrive at project sites with the equipment, paperwork, and supplies necessary to perform the requested tasks.

Collect soil, aggregate, asphalt, and concrete samples in the field and properly identify, transport, and document samples for testing.

Perform applicable field tests in accordance with standard test methods, project requirements, and company procedures.

Develop and maintain working knowledge of the ASTM, AASHTO, and other standard test methods applicable to assigned field activities.

Operate field testing equipment, including nuclear density gauges, after completing required training and receiving authorization under the company's radiation safety program.

Maintain clear communication with Project Managers regarding field activities, site conditions, testing results, and issues requiring attention.

Prepare accurate and complete daily field reports and supporting documentation.

Upload daily reports, test results, and project documentation through company project management and reporting systems.

Maintain accurate and complete project files and records.

Participate in technician quality control meetings, training sessions, and professional development activities.

Assist with special projects and other field-related duties as assigned.

Preferred

Previous field and/or laboratory experience in construction materials testing.

Experience testing soils, aggregates, concrete, and/or asphalt.

Working knowledge of ASTM, AASHTO, and industry-standard testing procedures.

Soils and aggregate certification through ATTI, ASTM, AASHTO, or another recognized program.

Asphalt testing certification through ATTI or an equivalent recognized program.

Experience reading construction drawings, specifications, and testing requirements.

Required

High school diploma or equivalent.

ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician Grade I certification.

Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record, as the position requires travel to project sites.

Strong mathematical skills and ability to perform testing calculations accurately.

Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

Basic computer proficiency and willingness to learn company reporting, testing, and project management systems.

Clear verbal and written communication skills.

Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Dependability and punctuality, particularly for scheduled project-site assignments.

Willingness and ability to work both in the laboratory and outdoors at active construction sites.

Flexibility to accommodate occasional early starts, extended workdays, or weekend assignments based on project needs.

Ability to stand, bend, kneel, and walk over uneven terrain as part of normal field and laboratory activities.

Willingness to participate in training and obtain applicable industry certifications.

Training and Certification

SOCOTEC provides structured, paid, on-the-job training. Depending on the candidate's existing experience and certifications, training may include:

Concrete: ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician Grade I, concrete strength testing, and related procedures.

Soils and Aggregates: Proctor compaction, sieve analysis, Atterberg Limits, sand equivalent, and related testing methods, with progression toward applicable soils and aggregate certifications.

Asphalt: Ignition oven testing, gyratory and Marshall compaction, maximum theoretical density, and related asphalt testing procedures.

Radiation Safety: Nuclear density gauge safety, radiation safety procedures, and applicable hazardous materials transportation training before operating nuclear gauges.

SOCOTEC supports the training and examination process for certifications required for the position. These industry-recognized certifications can support continued technical development and advancement within construction materials testing.

Career Development

This position provides an opportunity to join a growing Nashville operation and develop experience across both field and laboratory construction materials testing.

Technicians who demonstrate strong technical ability, reliability, initiative, and continued professional development may have opportunities to progress into positions such as:

Senior Technician

Lead Technician

Field Supervisor

Laboratory Supervisor

Laboratory Management

Other technical or operational roles within SOCOTEC

Physical Job Description

Typical Working Conditions

This job is primarily performed in an office laboratory with frequent visits to active construction sites, or project sites with frequent return office visits to drop off equipment, samples, paperwork, etc.