Lab Technician (General Construction Inspector I)

Job Description

Overview

The Research & Materials Section (RMS) serves as MassDOT's central materials laboratory. Our engineers, chemists, technicians, inspectors, and administrative professionals support MassDOT by ensuring that MassDOT complies with all applicable federal guidelines and regulations relating to construction material quality. Staff are responsible for the sampling and testing of construction materials, developing a wide range of material standards and guidelines, evaluating laboratories throughout the Commonwealth, and facilitating research projects. RMS participates in the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Accreditation Program and meets strict organizational, personnel, equipment, and testing proficiency requirements. The lab performs testing in the following areas: concrete, soils and aggregates, asphalt binder, hot mix asphalt, chemical, and physical (standard manufactured materials).

Position Summary

This position will focus on performing testing of concrete, cement, and physical construction materials. Candidates will help with calibration of equipment and assist with testing of proficiency program samples. This person shall be able to generate, and process reports of tested items as needed. This position will help support logging-in and receiving samples.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Inspects and test materials for conformance to rules, regulations, contract plans, and specifications.
• Conducts laboratory tests on materials used in the construction of highways, buildings, bridges, dams, water/sewage systems, tunnels and waterways for conformance with specifications, standards and code compliance to ensure construction safety.
• Testing of materials such as concrete cylinders, concrete beams, fence items, brick, block, rebar, welded wire reinforcement, cast iron, cement, and other cementitious materials.
• Locates, identifies, verifies, and moves samples from storage, receiving, moisture room, and other areas.
• Performs cutting, capping, grinding, and other sample preparation procedures to prepare samples for testing.
• Disposal of tested samples after testing and/or not needed for testing in accordance with QSM.
• Assist with the calibration, verification, and standardized checks of testing equipment.
• Follows manufacturer's instructions for equipment maintenance and documents maintenance performed.
• Performs tests demonstrations for AASHTO Resource and CCRL on-site assessments.
• Performs cleaning of equipment, work area, and benches. Keep Labs in a neat and orderly condition.
• Performs laboratory functions in accordance with MassDOT Quality Systems Manual requirements.
• Performs calculations relating to engineering problems.
• Gathers engineering data for the preparation of engineering research reports and studies.
• Performs general calculations related to materials testing by using calculators, computers and other instruments.
• Performs material receiving and logging-in of samples.
• Maintains ACI and NETTCP certification qualifications meeting the AASHTO Laboratory Accreditation Program requirements.
• Assist in other Research and Materials units as may be required.

• Knowledge of principles and practices of laboratory testing techniques.
• Knowledge of the properties and characteristics of chemicals, acids, materials, etc. used in laboratory work.
• Knowledge of the types and uses of equipment and devices used in laboratory work.
• Knowledge of calibration and adjustment techniques as applied to laboratory equipment.
• Knowledge of the proper methods for disposing of used laboratory materials after testing has been completed.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices to provide technical assistance on laboratory testing.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices to evaluate testing procedures to improve operational efficiencies.
• Knowledge of basic math and geometry and ability to perform mathematical computations.
• Knowledge of the inspection techniques and safety practices used for laboratory testing.
• Ability to understand, explain and apply the laws, regulations, policies, procedures and standards governing testing procedures.
• Knowledge of the types and uses of materials and equipment used for laboratory testing.
• Ability to gather and organize information according to established procedures.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to interact effectively with diverse groups of people.
• Ability to exercise leadership in group situations.
• Ability to use a computer to manage databases, communicate and produce written documents.
• Ability to adapt to varying work situations and adjust to meet emergency or changing program or production requirements.
• Ability to work independently.

• For questions regarding the job posting, please email the MassDOT Talent Acquisition Team at talentacquisition@dot.state.ma.us.
• For general questions regarding MassDOT, call the Human Resources Service Center at 857-368-4722.
• For a disability-related reasonable accommodation or alternative application method, call the ADA Coordinator, Lucy Bayard, at 857-274-1935.