Construction Materials Laboratory Manager

Construction Materials Laboratory Manager

Full-Time | On-Site | Direct Hire

Pay: $70,000 – $90,000 per year

Benefits:
Health, dental, vision; PTO and paid holidays; 401(k) with company match; paid certifications/renewals/CE;

Triax Engineering, LLC is a Colorado-based professional services firm providing geotechnical engineering, construction materials testing, special inspections, QA/QC, geotechnical drilling, and Phase I Environmental Site Assessments. Our team of about 40 engineers, technicians, and inspectors supports public and private construction across the Denver metro area and the Front Range.

Our laboratory is AASHTO re:source accredited, CCRL inspected, and approved for CDOT project testing.

We are seeking a Working Construction Materials Laboratory Manager to lead the day-to-day operation of our materials testing laboratory. This is a hands‑on role: you will perform and review testing, support accreditation requirements, manage equipment and calibration, and supervise laboratory technicians.

You will be responsible for the accuracy, defensibility, and turnaround of laboratory test results, working under the technical direction of our engineering staff for matters requiring professional engineering judgment.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform and oversee testing of soils, aggregate, concrete, asphalt (HMA), masonry, mortar, and grout in accordance with ASTM, AASHTO, and CDOT test methods.
• Manage sample intake, tracking, prioritization, and turnaround to meet project schedules.
• Review test data for accuracy and completeness; investigate and document anomalous results.
• Maintain cure room, testing equipment, and lab facilities in proper working condition.
• Implement and follow the lab quality management system (quality manual, SOPs, records).
• Support AASHTO re:source and CCRL assessments, proficiency samples, and corrective actions.
• Assist in maintaining CDOT laboratory approval and supporting agency/client audits.
• Supervise, train, and mentor lab technicians; assign daily work and manage lab workload.
• Support technician certifications (ACI, CDOT LabCAT, ICC).
• Coordinate daily with field staff and project managers on sample flow and testing priorities.
• Track lab throughput, equipment needs, and inventory; recommend maintenance and capital purchases.
• Help ensure accurate billing by verifying recorded testing.

• Minimum 5 years of construction materials laboratory experience, including at least 2 years in a lead, supervisory, or quality‑management role.
• Ability to work independently
• Working knowledge of ASTM and AASHTO test methods for soils, aggregate, concrete, and asphalt.
• Experience with an accredited lab quality program (AASHTO re:source, CCRL, A2LA, or similar), including assessments and proficiency samples.
• Current certifications, or ability to obtain within 6 months:
• CDOT LabCAT and relevant ACI masonry‑related lab certifications
• Strong recordkeeping and documentation skills; comfortable with LIMS and standard office software.
• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• Clear, professional communication with technicians, project managers, clients, and agency personnel.

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering technology, construction management, geology, or a related technical field.
• NICET certification in Construction Materials Testing.
• Prior experience as a working lab supervisor or lead in a construction materials testing lab.
• Experience with asphalt mix design verification and Superpave gyratory testing.
• Experience with masonry, mortar, and grout testing supporting IBC Chapter 17 special inspections.

Primarily laboratory-based with exposure to dust, noise, vibration, and temperature variation; occasional field or project site visits. Must be able to handle test specimens and materials and operate lab equipment, with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Hands‑on leadership:
  You run and supervise an accredited lab, not just a shift.
• Growth and development:
  We pay for certifications, renewals, and continuing education—for you and the technicians you develop.
• Steady, varied workload:
  Geotechnical, materials testing, special inspections, drilling, and environmental projects keep the lab busy year‑round.
• Access to leadership:
  Work directly with our President and engineering staff; good ideas move quickly here.