Job Title: Construction Materials TechnicianJob Description
The Construction Materials Technician supports geotechnical engineering and construction projects by performing field and laboratory testing of concrete and soil, reviewing project plans and specifications, and documenting results to ensure work complies with applicable standards. This entry-level role offers comprehensive training and a strong career path for individuals who want to grow in the construction and civil engineering field.
Responsibilities
Review civil, architectural, and structural plans and specifications in preparation for field observations on construction sites.
Perform extensive field testing of concrete to verify that standards and project specifications are being met; concrete testing will be the primary responsibility.
Conduct field testing of soil on construction projects to confirm compliance with project requirements.
Perform laboratory testing of concrete and soil samples in accordance with applicable standards and procedures.
Document field activities, observations, and test results accurately and thoroughly, including conformance with or deviation from project plans and specifications.
Communicate field and laboratory testing results clearly and promptly to construction services and geotechnical project management staff, general contractors, and clients.
Calibrate field and laboratory equipment regularly to meet industry codes and standards.
Use Microsoft Word and Excel to prepare reports, maintain records, and organize test data.
Follow established safety practices while working on active construction sites and in the laboratory.
Handle and move field and laboratory samples and equipment, routinely lifting 20 to 40 pounds as part of daily tasks.
Essential Skills
ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician - Grade I certification (ACI Level 1) required.
High school diploma or GED required.
At least 1 year of experience working in an outdoor field environment such as construction, farming, environmental work, or similar settings.
Entry-level knowledge or experience in construction, civil engineering, geology, or environmental fields, including individuals currently pursuing related degrees or online courses.
Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively to document observations and convey test results.
Basic math skills sufficient to perform measurements, calculations, and interpret test data.
Proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel for documentation and reporting.
Ability and willingness to routinely lift 20 to 40 pounds, including field and laboratory samples and equipment.
Willingness to work outdoors on active construction sites in varying weather conditions.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Experience with construction materials testing (CMT) or construction inspection is preferred.
ACI certification beyond Level 1, such as Field Testing Grade 1, Strength Testing Technician, or Aggregate Testing, is preferred.
Familiarity with ASTM, AASHTO, or ISO standards related to construction materials testing is preferred.
Previous hands-on construction, civil, geology, or environmental work experience is beneficial, even at an entry level.
Strong attention to detail and accuracy when recording test data and observations.
Ability to work both independently in the field and collaboratively with project management and construction teams.
Interest in building a long-term career in construction, geotechnical engineering, or materials testing, with a desire to learn and grow.
Work Environment
This role is primarily field-based, with most time spent on active construction sites in and around Paducah, Kentucky. The work environment is outdoors and physically demanding, with exposure to varying weather conditions and typical construction site activity. The position also includes time in an office-based laboratory, which is a hands-on, industrial setting where concrete and soil samples are prepared and tested. The overall environment is a dirty, construction-focused workplace that requires practical attire suitable for fieldwork, personal protective equipment as needed, and comfort working with tools, testing equipment, and materials. Standard office technology such as Microsoft Word and Excel is used for reporting and documentation, while specialized field and laboratory equipment is used for concrete and soil testing and requires regular calibration to industry standards.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Paducah, KY.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $23.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: - 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)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Paducah,KY.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Apr 24, 2026.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:
Hiring diverse talent
Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
Ensuring growth opportunities for our people
Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we've helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC-with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.
Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.
