Research Laboratory Technician
Listed on 2026-05-30
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Quality Assurance - QA/QC
Quality Engineering
Location: McLean, VA (Turner–Fairbank Highway Research Center)
Type: Full-Time, On-Site Monday – Friday
Impact: Help shape the future of America’s highway infrastructure
Clearance: must be able to pass a federal background check (US Citizen or work authorization with 3 of last 5 years residing in the US, High School Grad)
About the OpportunityJoin a nationally recognized federal research center and play a hands‑on role in advancing the science of concrete materials. As a Concrete Research Technician – Level 2, you’ll support cutting‑edge research that directly influences the durability, safety, and performance of U.S. highways and bridges.
If you enjoy working with your hands, operating lab equipment, and being part of a mission‑driven engineering team, this role is a great fit.
What You’ll Do- Prepare concrete, mortar, and paste mixtures for research studies
- Perform standardized concrete tests (ASTM/AASHTO) with precision
- Assist engineers with specimen fabrication, durability testing, and data collection
- Operate and maintain lab equipment, curing systems, and conditioning chambers
- Keep the lab organized, safe, and ready for daily research activities
- Support innovative projects that improve national infrastructure
- ACI Concrete Laboratory Testing Technician – Level 1 certification (ACI Field + Strength + Aggregate certs)
- 2+ years of hands‑on experience in a concrete or materials research lab
- Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort using tools and lab equipment
- Ability to lift 50 lbs and work in an active laboratory environment
- Attention to detail, reliability, and a commitment to safety
- Experience with hydraulic or mechanical testing systems
- Familiarity with curing tanks, humidity/temperature chambers, or vacuum systems
- Basic instrumentation or data collection experience
Forklift or overhead crane experience (training available)
- Work with state‑of‑the‑art equipment in a premier federal research facility
- Contribute to real‑world improvements in concrete pavements and structures
- Collaborate with engineers, scientists, and national experts
- Grow your skills through training, certifications, and hands‑on experience
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