The growing population, business development, and the rising need for housing units are among top factors that led to the increase in construction projects in California. And these projects are not limited to just building structures; instead, clients want quality outcomes. From layout to the workforce to construction material, everything has been carefully examined to deliver top-notch, energy-efficient, and durable infrastructures.
Considering the importance of construction materials, many companies are hiring experienced construction material testing technicians to test and inspect the materials used on construction sites to ensure they adhere to safety standards. Below is a brief guide all the information architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) professionals need if they aspire to kickstart or advance their career in different construction materials testing jobs.
What’s the market like for construction material testing jobs?
Currently, with the increasing number of construction projects, the job market is favorable for AEC professionals looking for material testing jobs. The field offers a broad scope for career advancement into different job titles, such as construction inspector, field technician, construction superintendent, quality control inspector, and site manager, with relevant experience and additional credentials. Some of the top industries hiring construction materials testing technicians in the country include technology, manufacturing, and construction.
Becoming a construction materials testing technician: What to know
Job expectations
Some of the typical responsibilities of materials testing professionals are:
- testing, inspecting, and measuring materials in a laboratory;
- analyzing and discussing test results with engineers, construction inspectors, and other concerned parties;
- recommending adjustments and changes to the construction process and material creation;
- monitoring operations to ensure the production process complies with set standards.
Type of experience valued by employers
To excel in the role of a construction materials testing technician, you must demonstrate your experience in working on different projects as part of your internship or previous job (if applicable).
Employers value those candidates who can show in-depth knowledge related to the field they’ve gained through different training programs while pursuing a certification course or gaining a license.
Hard and soft skill requirements
Material testing jobs require a perfect balance of hard and soft skills as they require you to interact with different AEC professionals regularly. Some of the most common qualities of construction materials testing professionals include technical skills, logical reasoning, mathematics, team coordination, and attention to detail.
Necessary certifications and licenses
To set yourself apart from other job aspirants, gain additional certifications and licenses in construction materials testing from top associations in the country, including the American Concrete Institute, the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA), and Asphalt Institute (AI). Some of the popular certifications are:
- Concrete Quality Technical Manager (CQTM)
- National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET)
- Associate Concrete Quality Technical Manager (ACQTM)
How to prepare for success as a construction materials testing technician
Below are some top tips to keep in mind to succeed as a construction materials testing technician in the country:
- Get a degree or diploma in civil engineering, construction management, quality control management, or technology. Opt for coursework related to building codes, construction methods, building methods, blueprint reading, or more to get hands-on knowledge about the field.
- Familiarize yourself with different computer programs, tools, software, and equipment such as meters and gauges used in material testing.
- Showcase excellent work competencies to handle and complete a testing project independently with no or minimum supervision. Though this may come with experience, always try to take the initiative to put your skills on the test for career advancement and other benefits, such as high pay rates and recommendations.
- Be well-versed in different kinds of construction materials, such as soil, chemicals and rocks, to showcase your in-depth knowledge when required on the construction site.
Top construction materials testing firms hiring now in the Golden State
Construction Testing Services (CTS)
Construction Testing Services (CTS) began operating in 1994 throughout California and Nevada. The firm specializes in inspections, material testing, and geotechnical engineering services for major construction projects.
The CTS team has over 250 employees, including inspectors, engineers, and technicians experienced in all areas of construction. CTS has worked on many notable construction projects in recent years, including the Sparta Student Housing project in San Jose, the 500 Folsom project in San Francisco, and the San Jose State University project.
MatriScope
MatriScope Engineering Laboratories provide dedicated construction support services, including materials testing and geotechnical engineering. Operating locally in Sacramento and throughout other California communities, the firm has approximately twenty employees. Among their portfolio, they’ve worked on many projects, including the Franklin & Jefferson Apartments, the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, and the Dreamworks Headquarters in Redwood City.
Allerion Consulting Group
Allerion Consulting Group provides consulting and engineering support services for small to large-scale construction projects. The company prides itself on supporting clients throughout the project lifecycle. As part of their services, they carry out construction materials testing, geotechnical services, and geological studies.
Allerion Consulting Group’s projects include several of the following retail, hospitality, and residential buildings:
- Thunder Valley Casino, Roseville;
- Downtown Plaza Mall, Sacramento;
- Townplace Suites, Elk Grove;
- Project One, Roseville;
- VA Hospital Mather, Sacramento.
Certis Solutions: Benefits of working with an engineering staffing agency
Certis Solutions offers the perfect staffing solution to AEC professionals by helping them reach out to some of the best AEC firms in the Golden State. Certis shares a close partnership with prominent companies that benefits the candidates by giving them exclusive access to work on some top-grade projects across California and other states. The dedicated and highly experienced team of recruiting managers and consultants can help you land your dream job with an expansive array of services, such as skill development, interview preparation, and resume and cover letter creation.
Certis works closely with every applicant to understand their personal and professional goals to find a job that matches their expectations and goals. They also help you stand out among the competition in the job market by evaluating your work competencies, skills, and field knowledge.
Moreover, Certis supports you by bridging the gap between finding the right job opportunity, training, and expertise. Please get in touch with Certis Solutions today to explore the vast array of staffing services along with the AEC professionals and firms it works with.
