Job Description

Laboratory Technician (Geotechnical & Construction Materials Testing)

Title:

Laboratory Technician

Department:

Materials Testing / Geotechnical Laboratory

Location:

Aberdeen

Employment Type:

Full Time, 40-45 hours a week

Role Overview

The Laboratory Technician will perform a range of geotechnical and construction materials tests in accordance with relevant industry standards (e.g., BS, BS EN, ASTM). The role involves preparing samples, carrying out laboratory and field tests, recording accurate data, and ensuring compliance with quality, safety, and operational procedures. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with soil, aggregate, and concrete testing, particularly in infrastructure, civil engineering, or construction environments.

Key Responsibilities Laboratory Testing

Carry out routine and specialist tests including:

Particle Size Distribution (PSD) - Wet & Dry

Sedimentation and Hydrometer Analysis

Particle Density / Specific Gravity

Californian Bearing Ratio (CBR)

Soaked and unsoaked testing Load-penetration curve analysis

Dry Density / Moisture Content Relationship (Proctor & Modified Proctor)

Atterberg Limits

Liquid Limit, Plastic Limit, Plasticity Index

Moisture Condition Value (MCV)

Moisture Content Determination

Chemical Testing

pH and sulphate content in soils and aggregates Organic matter content

Concrete Compressive Strength Testing

Cube and cylinder preparation, curing, and crushing

Sample and Data Management

Receive, label, and prepare soil, aggregate, and concrete samples. Ensure test data is recorded accurately and processed using laboratory software. Produce clear, concise test reports compliant with quality and accreditation requirements (e.g., UKAS).

Quality & Compliance

Follow laboratory SOPs, method statements, and industry standards. Ensure all equipment is calibrated, maintained, and used correctly. Adhere to quality assurance systems and safety protocols.

Health & Safety

Maintain a clean and safe working environment. Use PPE and follow risk assessments at all times. Report incidents, equipment faults, or non-conformances promptly.

Essential Skills & Experience

Proven experience working in a geotechnical, construction materials, or civil engineering laboratory. Practical knowledge of the listed tests and relevant British/International Standards. Ability to maintain accurate records and handle data with attention to detail. Understanding of laboratory safety practices and quality systems (e.g., UKAS ISO 17025). Good communication skills and ability to work independently or as part of a team. Basic IT proficiency (Excel, lab management systems).

Desirable Qualifications

NVQ Level 2/3 in Construction Materials Testing or similar. Degree/HNC/HND in Geology, Civil Engineering, Environmental Science, or related field. CSCS card (if field/laboratory split). Experience with field sampling or in-situ testing (e.g., plate bearing, density testing).

Working Conditions

Primarily laboratory-based with potential site visit requirements. Manual handling of samples and use of mechanical testing equipment required. Shift or overtime work may be required depending on workload.
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 35,000.00-40,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person