About this role
Construction Materials Testing Technician
Field Testing | Construction Materials
We're seeking an Engineering Technician to join a growing geotechnical and construction materials testing team supporting projects throughout the Baltimore region. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys being in the field, working on active construction sites, and developing technical skills that directly impact the success of infrastructure and development projects. Whether you bring prior materials testing experience or a construction background and are looking to enter the engineering industry, this role offers hands-on training, professional development, and a clear path for advancement through certifications and increased technical responsibility.
What You'll Do
- Perform field testing of soil, concrete, asphalt, and other construction materials on active job sites.
- Observe earthwork, foundation installations, and construction operations to verify compliance with project requirements.
- Collect and properly document field samples for laboratory testing and analysis.
- Assist with laboratory testing, specimen preparation, and data collection.
- Operate testing and drilling equipment while following safety and quality standards.
- Record test results, observations, and site conditions accurately and prepare clear daily field reports.
- Communicate findings and project updates with engineers, project managers, contractors, and field personnel.
- Perform basic calculations related to materials testing and construction observations.
- Maintain testing equipment, tools, vehicles, and field supplies.
- Participate in ongoing technical training and certification programs.
What We're Looking For
- Interest in construction, engineering, materials testing, or geotechnical consulting.
- Comfortable working outdoors in active construction environments.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately document observations and test results.
- Ability to follow technical procedures and instructions.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Basic math skills and comfort performing calculations.
- Reliable attendance and strong work ethic.
- Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to project sites throughout the region.
Ideal Backgrounds
- Construction laborers or field personnel looking to build a long-term technical career.
- Construction materials testing technicians.
- Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Geology, or Environmental Science graduates seeking field experience.
- Military veterans with technical, mechanical, or construction-related experience.
- Individuals with hands-on mechanical aptitude who enjoy working both indoors and outdoors.
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience in construction, inspections, materials testing, surveying, drilling, or geotechnical work.
- ACI, NICET, ICC, or other industry certifications.
- Experience preparing field reports and documenting construction activities.
- Interest in pursuing additional certifications and technical training.
Why Join?
- Comprehensive training with opportunities to learn specialized testing methods and certifications.
- Clear career progression into senior technician, laboratory, inspection, or engineering support roles.
- Exposure to major construction and infrastructure projects throughout the region.
- Opportunity to develop in-demand skills within geotechnical engineering and construction consulting.
- Supportive, team-oriented environment that values mentorship and professional development.
- Experience the project variety and resources of a larger firm while enjoying the culture of a close-knit, women-led organization.
Work Environment
This position is based out of the Baltimore area and involves daily travel to construction sites typically located within approximately 90 miles of the office. Work schedules may include early mornings, occasional nights, weekends, and limited overnight travel based on project needs. The role is highly active and field-focused, with regular walking on construction sites, standing for extended periods, working in varying weather conditions, and handling equipment or materials weighing up to 50 pounds. You'll work directly with construction teams, engineers, and technical staff while gaining hands-on experience with industry-standard testing equipment and procedures.
Ideal for someone who enjoys being out in the field rather than behind a desk and wants to build a long-term career in construction, geotechnical engineering, or materials testing. No prior experience in every testing discipline is required. Strong candidates with construction experience, technical aptitude, and a willingness to learn are encouraged to apply.
Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Baltimore, MD.
Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $20.00 - $25.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. 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)
Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Nov 9, 2026.
Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Baltimore,MD.About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email [email protected] for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.