Construction & Geotechnical Materials Lab Manager

Position Summary

Thompson Engineering is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Construction & Geotechnical Materials Laboratory Manager to lead and manage laboratory operations supporting construction and geotechnical testing services. This role is responsible for overseeing laboratory personnel equipment quality systems and safety practices to ensure accurate timely and compliant testing of soils aggregates concrete asphalt and related materials. The Laboratory Manager plays a critical role in maintaining Thompsons quality standards supporting business objectives and developing high-performing teams.

Key Responsibilities

Laboratory Operations & Quality

• Coordinate and manage daily operations of the construction and/or geotechnical materials laboratory to ensure testing services are performed safely accurately and on schedule.
• Ensure all laboratory activities comply with Thompson Engineerings Quality Program Quality Management System (QMS) project specifications and applicable industry standards.
• Develop implement and maintain laboratory-specific procedures that align with company quality and operational requirements.
• Oversee proficiency testing programs and ensure compliance with A2LA AASHTO USACE ISO 17025 R18 and other applicable accreditation standards.
• Identify project-related risks and potential failure points and apply Thompsons risk management practices to protect the company and clients.

Leadership & Personnel Management

• Lead supervise and mentor laboratory personnel; ensure staff are properly trained equipped and supported to perform their duties safely and effectively.
• Evaluate employee performance and support professional development and career growth in accordance with company policies.
• Assist with recruiting hiring onboarding and training of laboratory staff to meet current and future workload demands.
• Foster a culture of accountability continuous improvement teamwork and professionalism.

Equipment Facilities & Resources

• Oversee efficient utilization of laboratory facilities equipment and resources; identify and request additional resources as needed.
• Ensure proper calibration maintenance and operation of all laboratory testing equipment.
• Maintain laboratory organization cleanliness and a professional work environment.

Business & Administrative Support

• Collaborate with Office and Department Management in the preparation of proposals quotations and cost estimates for laboratory testing services.
• Ensure accurate scope definition manpower planning and pricing to support profitability and client expectations.
• Supervise laboratory administrative functions including report preparation documentation and client deliverables.
• Ensure compliance with company administrative requirements such as timekeeping expense reporting and purchasing procedures.
• Assist Department Management with annual business planning and short-term business development efforts.

Safety & Compliance

• Lead laboratory safety initiatives and promote a strong safety culture through pre-task planning training and active oversight.
• Model safe work practices and ensure compliance with all safety policies procedures and regulations.

Additional Duties

• Perform construction and geotechnical laboratory testing as needed based on workload and staffing levels.

What Thompson Engineering Is Looking For

• A proactive leader with a strong sense of ownership accountability and attention to detail.
• A quality-focused professional committed to accuracy compliance and continuous improvement.
• A safety-minded manager who leads by example and prioritizes employee well-being.
• A collaborative team builder who can develop talent and manage laboratory operations efficiently.
• A professional who thrives in fast-paced deadline-driven environments while maintaining high standards.

Qualifications

Education & Experience (One of the following):

• Bachelors degree in a STEM-related field with 3 years of experience in construction and geotechnical materials laboratory testing; or
• 10 years of relevant construction or geotechnical laboratory experience in lieu of a degree.

Certifications

Certification by recognized national regional or state authorities (or equivalent in-house certification) in one or more of the following areas:

• Concrete
• Aggregates
• Soil and rock
• Asphalt / road and paving materials (Examples include ACI NICET DOT)

Additional Requirements

• Valid drivers license with an acceptable driving record.
• Strong leadership organizational and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage laboratory operations while maintaining quality and safety standards.

Required Experience:

Manager