Traveling Construction Material Technician

Actalent
Springfield, MO

Job Title: Traveling Construction Material Technician

Job Description

This traveling role offers the opportunity to work on large, high-profile construction projects while performing field testing, observation, and inspection of construction materials such as soils, aggregates, concrete, asphalt, and steel. You will travel 100% of the time on a rotating schedule of three weeks on and one week off, consistently working approximately 60 hours per week across project sites in Northwest Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texas. This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy hands-on work in the field, are committed to safety and quality, and want to build their expertise in construction materials testing.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct field tests, observations, and inspections of construction materials, including soils, aggregates, concrete, asphalt, and steel.
  • Perform concrete testing and inspection activities, including sampling, casting cylinders, and documenting test results.
  • Carry out soil testing, soil sampling, Proctor testing, compaction testing, and construction materials testing in accordance with project requirements and standards.
  • Use and properly operate nuclear density gauges and related testing equipment to perform field density and compaction tests.
  • Communicate effectively with project managers, engineering technicians, client representatives, contractor representatives, and other stakeholders regarding construction site activities, project requirements, and testing, observation, and inspection results.
  • Transport material samples, along with all required documentation, to the laboratory for further testing and analysis.
  • Compile, prepare, and submit accurate written and digital daily reports, including data, observations, and test results, for timely transmittal to project management.
  • Maintain, clean, and organize testing equipment, vehicles, and work areas to ensure a safe, efficient, and professional working environment.
  • Assist with scheduling and dispatching technicians to project sites as needed to support ongoing field operations.
  • Follow and enforce strict safety standards and protocols at all times while on site, in transit, and in the laboratory.
  • Complete required internal safety training and certifications and apply this knowledge consistently in daily work.

Essential Skills

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally with project managers, technicians, client representatives, and contractor representatives.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders on active construction sites.
  • High attention to detail and accuracy in documenting and reporting field observations and test results.
  • Ability to maintain, operate, and troubleshoot construction materials testing equipment and vehicles in the field.
  • Demonstrated commitment to safety and adherence to established safety protocols and procedures.
  • Experience or aptitude in construction materials testing, including concrete, asphalt, soil, and aggregate testing.
  • Ability to perform field inspections and quality control or quality assurance activities on active construction projects.
  • Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Ability to travel 100% of the time and work a rotating schedule of three weeks on and one week off.
  • Ability to consistently work approximately 60 hours per week on large, high-profile project sites.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

  • Familiarity with ACI (American Concrete Institute) standards and practices for concrete testing and inspection.
  • Ability to obtain ACI concrete field testing certification within 90 days of hire.
  • Experience with concrete testing and inspection, including handling and testing cylinders.
  • Knowledge of construction quality control and quality assurance processes.
  • Experience with nuclear density gauges and nuclear gauge testing for soil and asphalt compaction.
  • Experience performing Proctor testing, compaction testing, and soil sampling for construction projects.
  • Background in construction materials testing, inspection, and documentation on DOT or similar infrastructure projects.
  • Successful completion of internal safety certifications after hire, including site-specific and company-specific safety training.
  • Comfort working with digital reporting tools and electronic documentation systems.
  • Prior field experience in construction, materials testing, or a related technical field is beneficial, even at an entry level.

Work Environment

This is a fully traveling field position with 100% travel required. You will work primarily on large, high-profile construction sites across Northwest Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texas, with a consistent schedule of approximately 60 hours per week. The standard rotation is three weeks on followed by one week off, providing extended time on site and dedicated time away from the field. The initial assignment will be at a project site in Fort Smith, Arkansas, supporting Department of Transportation and paving operations for a United States Air Force facility. Work is performed outdoors and in active construction environments, often around heavy equipment, varying weather conditions, and uneven terrain. You will regularly use specialized construction materials testing equipment, including nuclear density gauges and other field testing instruments, and will operate company vehicles to travel between project sites and laboratories. Candidates must complete required agency forms prior to starting work on certain projects. The role emphasizes a strong safety culture, with strict adherence to safety protocols, use of appropriate personal protective equipment, and maintenance of clean, organized work areas.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Springfield, MO.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $27.00 - $32.00/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 Springfield,MO.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on May 7, 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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