Construction Materials Testing Technician

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We are looking for hard working and dedicated personnel willing to learn the necessary skills to be successful in the engineering field. The primary function of the Engineering Sr. Research Assistant is performing testing in the field and laboratory of construction materials. Experience in the construction industry is not necessary. Candidates will be trained in both a laboratory environment and traveling to project sites for field operations, related to composite materials, concrete, steel and masonry. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Reasonable accommodations will be provided, if necessary, for individuals with disabilities who can perform the essential job functions*

• Manage and be accountable for a wide variety of testing tasks involving composite materials, concrete, steel and masonry.
• Prepare initial reports to document results of testing processes and laboratory standard operating procedures.
• Set up, conduct and analyze standard laboratory tests following prescribed procedures (ASTM, ISO).
• Set up and operate equipment by following manufactures instructions, observing use by others and asking for instruction if unfamiliar with any given equipment.
• Load and unload samples, technical and manual tools from vehicles safely & with care.
• Ensure laboratory is properly stocked with supplies needed to accomplish tasks/projects.
• Maintain equipment and by cleaning as necessary completing preventative maintenance.
• Maintain neat & orderly work area (on-site, lab, etc.) allowing access to project information to other team members.
• Provide guidance & development to fellow associates, and students.
• Communicate daily with management on laboratory activities and evaluate work progress
• Maintain safe working environment by using proper personal protection equipment, and complying with all OSHA, and/or site-specific safety regulations and/or guidelines.

Physical Capacity Requirements*: Sitting, standing, climbing ladders walking, regular lifting up to 50 lbs., talking, hearing, finger dexterity and/or feeling, near vision, far vision. Must be able to travel, at times long distances, by car or truck. Environmental Conditions*: Primary work environment will be in the laboratory. Terrain may be level or highly challenging.

Education and/or Experience

Must work well in a team environment and manage individual aspects of projects with little oversight. Experience in the industry is not necessary. Must have demonstrated effective communications skills, be results-oriented with high ethical standards and a team attitude. Must be able to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• 1-2 years in construction/materials testing or two years technical/trade preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering or related field is preferred.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Language Skills: Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, ASTM standards, operating and maintenance instructions, customer testing specifications, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of organization. 
• Mathematical Skills: Ability to calculate figures and amounts and apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.
• Reasoning Ability:  Ability to interpret a variety of instructions, data and details furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form. 
• Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
  • Ability to operate a company vehicle within company policy. A valid driver’s license and safe driving record is required.
  • ACI Concrete Field Testing Certification or equivalent preferred.  
• Physical Demands:
  • Frequency of required physical force: Occasional to moderate.
  • Lifting requirements: lifting <50 lbs. often and >50 lbs. sporadically.
  • Ability to stand on feet for long periods of time.
  • Work is primarily performed in laboratory and outdoor laboratory and may include walking on uneven terrain.
• Other Skills and Abilities:
  • Knowledge of Construction techniques, testing & construction management preferred.
  • Ability to document completed jobs including notes during testing, action in the field, subsequent laboratory test with dates and times noted for review purposes.
  • Ability to convey thoughts orally and in writing.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Applications (Word, Excel)

About us

The University of Miami is considered among the top tier institutions of higher education in the US for its academic excellence, superior medical care, and cutting-edge research. At the U, we are committed to attracting a talented workforce to support our common purpose of transforming lives through teaching, research, and service. Through our values of Diversity, Integrity, Responsibility, Excellence, Compassion, Creativity and Teamwork (DIRECCT) we strive to celebrate an environment where everyone contributes in making UM a great place to work. We are one of the largest private employers in Miami-Dade County. Through a competitive total rewards package and opportunities for growth, we are an organization that does not only accept differences, we value them. Full-time employees enjoy competitive pay, flexible paid time off bank, 401k program and employer match, health and life insurance, among other benefits. The position is within the College of Engineering, at the Structures and Materials Laboratory, and ISO 17025 accredited laboratory, part of the Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering (CAE). We are excited to be considered during your career search.

The University of Miami is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Females/Minorities/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities are encouraged to apply. Applicants and employees are protected from discrimination based on certain categories protected by Federal law. Click here for additional information.

Job Status:

Full time

Employee Type:

Staff

Pay Grade:

A5