Laboratory Manager, Construction Materials Testing and Geotechnical Services

About the role

Reporting to the Principal Engineer in charge, this role will ensure the efficient daily operation of the Geotechnical and Construction Material Laboratory operations at our new Dallas, TX location. SOCOTEC is looking for an autonomous self-starter who will relish the opportunity to set up a new laboratory focused on construction materials testing (soils, concrete, masonry, aggregate, asphalt) and geotechnical testing. Successful candidates will be responsible for supervising staff working in the lab, the general maintenance of laboratory equipment, quality assurance, safety, and lab productivity.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage, oversee, perform testing, review, and submit testing results for soils, concrete, masonry, asphalt, aggregate, and related construction materials testing, as well as geotechnical related testing.
• Generate, calculate, and compile laboratory testing reports and issue to clients and supervise others performing the same.
• Maintain and organize laboratory workload to meet given deadlines and be proactive in assessing bottlenecks in workflows and processes to ensure efficient laboratory operations.
• Oversee overall lab testing procedures, including setup, application of loads, instrumentation, data acquisition, analyses, and cleanup.
• Ensure the timely entry of lab KPIs and billing information weekly.
• Identify needs and perform the required research for new testing procedures.
• Maintain the Quality Management System (QMS) and ensure testing is in accordance with applicable ASTM, AASHTO, AASHTO re:source, CCRL, and company quality system requirements.
• Lead the laboratory through initial AASHTO re:source and TxDOT DMS-7400 accreditation, including document control, equipment records, calibration files, technician competency records, internal audits, and corrective action follow-up, and maintain accreditation status going forward.
• Recommend, specify, and manage procurement of new laboratory equipment to build out testing capabilities, in addition to overseeing ongoing calibration, maintenance, upgrades, and repairs.
• Internal and external communication with outside clients.
• Coordinate with Dallas field staff, project managers, clients, and contractors to support timely sample intake, testing priorities, reporting, and project communication.
• Assist in cultivating client relationships with existing and new clients.
• Mechanically inclined to help with equipment troubleshooting and repairs is preferred.
• Ensure that the lab is clean, organized, and adequately stocked, including but not limited to supply inventory, labeling, and record-keeping procedures.
• Oversee lab safety and lab SOP (standard operating procedures), including but not limited to proper specimen and chemical handling, disposal, and storage processes and procedures.
• Communicating effectively and efficiently with contractors, clients, and team members.
• Work Environment may include moderate to loud noise, dusty conditions, and require standing for extensive periods of time. The position may require occasional lifting and carrying objects weighing up to 50 lbs. Corrected vision, color perception and hearing to normal range are required.
• Weekend and overtime work may be required as needed based on laboratory workload; Limited overnight or regional travel may be required with this position.
• Perform other work-related duties as assigned by their manager. The omission of specific responsibilities does not preclude their manager from assigning duties that are logically related to the position.

Qualifications & Requirements

• BA/BS in a related discipline (BS in civil engineering preferred) or equivalent experience.
• 5-10 years of hands-on experience performing construction materials / geotechnical laboratory testing, including demonstrated experience leading and motivating lab technicians.
• ACI and NICET certification in Construction Materials Testing, including soils, concrete, or asphalt, and TxDOT certifications are preferred. Required certifications must be obtained within 1 year of your start date if not already held.
• Experience in soil and rock laboratory work is preferred.
• Field construction materials testing or geotechnical inspection experience is a plus, though not required for this laboratory-based role.
• Experience in process driven operations and people management.
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
• MS Excel and Word.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Additional Information

Competitive benefits package including health, dental, vision, and 401(k).

Job Type: Full-Time

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

SOCOTEC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.