Entry Level Construction Materials Technician

Actalent
Topeka, KS

Job Title: Entry Level Construction Materials Technician

Job Description

The Construction Materials Technician performs field and laboratory testing, observation, and inspection of construction materials such as soils, aggregates, concrete, asphalt, and steel. This role supports construction projects by ensuring materials meet project specifications and quality standards, while accurately documenting and communicating test results. It offers an excellent entry point into the environmental and construction materials testing industry, with exposure to both fieldwork and office-based reporting.

Responsibilities

  • Perform field testing, observation, and inspection of construction materials including soils, aggregates, concrete, asphalt, and steel.
  • Conduct laboratory testing and analysis on material samples in accordance with project requirements and applicable standards.
  • Communicate effectively with the project manager, engineering technicians, client representatives, contractor representatives, and other stakeholders regarding site conditions, project requirements, and testing, observation, and inspection activities.
  • Transport material samples from construction sites to the laboratory, ensuring all samples include accurate and complete identifying documentation.
  • Tabulate, prepare, and submit data, observations, and test results in both written and digital formats for daily transmittal to the project manager.
  • Maintain accurate records of test procedures, results, and site observations to support project documentation and quality control.
  • Maintain, clean, and organize testing equipment, vehicles, and work areas to ensure safe and efficient operations.
  • Assist with scheduling and dispatching technicians to project sites as needed to support project timelines and staffing needs.
  • Follow strict safety standards at all times while working on construction sites, in the laboratory, and during transport of materials.
  • Support general construction inspection activities as directed, including the use of specialized testing tools and gauges.

Essential Skills

  • Ability to work outside in all weather conditions while performing field testing and inspections.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds to handle equipment, samples, and materials safely.
  • Strong organizational skills to manage multiple tests, documentation, and daily reporting requirements.
  • Computer proficiency to prepare digital reports, enter test data, and communicate with project stakeholders.
  • Some exposure to construction environments or related field experience.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with project managers, technicians, client representatives, and contractor personnel.
  • Willingness to adhere to strict safety standards in both field and laboratory settings.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

  • Experience with general labor on construction sites
  • Familiarity with construction inspection practices and procedures
  • Interest in building a career in the construction materials testing industry.

Work Environment

This role involves a mix of fieldwork on active construction sites and office-based reporting and coordination. In the field, you work outdoors in all weather conditions, conducting tests and inspections on materials and construction activities. You regularly handle testing equipment and material samples, which may require lifting up to 50 pounds and operating tools such as nuclear density gauges. In the office, you prepare and submit digital and written reports, organize test data, and collaborate with a team that includes approximately 12 technicians and 3 engineers. The environment emphasizes safety, accuracy, and teamwork, with a combination of hands-on testing and computer-based documentation.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Topeka, KS.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $20.00/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 Topeka,KS.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on May 12, 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.

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