Materials Lab technician

The Soils and Aggregates Testing Laboratory Technician will be responsible for conducting a variety of tests on soils, aggregates, and related construction materials. Your role will be essential in ensuring these materials meet the required quality and safety standards for use in construction, infrastructure, and civil engineering projects. You will be part of a team providing reliable, accurate test results for the evaluation of material properties such as strength, compaction, and particle size distribution.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform laboratory tests on soils and aggregates, including compaction, grading, moisture content, Atterberg limits, plasticity, and particle size analysis, in compliance with recognised standards (e.g., BS, ASTM, or equivalent).
• Prepare soil and aggregate samples, ensuring proper sample collection, handling, and storage to maintain accuracy.
• Operate and maintain laboratory testing equipment such as sieves, compaction machines, proctors, and hydraulic presses.
• Record and analyse test results, ensuring they are accurately documented in lab reports.
• Ensure all test procedures follow the relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Work closely with senior technical staff to interpret test results and contribute to technical reports and recommendations for clients.
• Assist in the preparation of material specifications, testing schedules, and quality assurance documentation.
• Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment regularly to ensure optimal performance and compliance with testing standards.
• Provide support for the preparation and delivery of materials testing services for ongoing construction and engineering projects.
• Participate in the development of new testing methods and assist with research into improving testing techniques.
• Provide guidance on sample collection, handling, and testing requirements to clients, contractors, and field staff.
• Assist in ensuring the laboratory is well-maintained, clean, and organised, adhering to the highest standards of safety and operational efficiency.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Previous experience in soils and aggregates testing or a laboratory environment is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of testing methods for soils and aggregates, including soil classification, grading analysis, moisture content, and compaction tests.
• Familiarity with UK and international standards for soils and aggregates testing (e.g., BS 1377, BS EN 932).
• Strong attention to detail, with an ability to produce accurate and reliable test results.
• Good organisational and time management skills to handle multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, for preparing reports and interacting with clients.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• A good understanding of health and safety practices within a laboratory and field environment.

Desirable Attributes:

• Experience with advanced testing techniques for soils and aggregates, such as CBR (California Bearing Ratio), permeability tests, and geotechnical analyses.
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues with testing equipment.
• Proficiency in using laboratory data management software and reporting tools (e.g., Excel, laboratory management systems).
• Full UK driving licence for potential site visits.

Working Conditions:

• Full-time position.
• Occasional overtime or weekend work may be required.
• The role will involve working with potentially hazardous materials, so appropriate protective clothing and safety protocols will be provided.
• There may be occasional site visits to collect samples or oversee testing procedures in the field.