Materials Lab Technician

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is recruiting for a Materials Lab Technician. This position is responsible for laboratory testing of a variety of materials used in highway and bridge construction and maintenance to ensure compliance with project specifications and State and Federal regulations. The test results also provide information to design staff contractors and project managers on the development and application of materials. Technical testing procedures vary based on the specific section e.g. Bituminous Mix Design or Asphalt Properties. The position reports to the Lab Supervisor in the assigned section.

This position is part of a career ladder with career advancement opportunities.

For a full job description please contact Liam McConaghy at

Benefits of working for MDT and the State of Montana include:

• Culture of public service and a commitment to work/life balance
• Health Dental and Vision Insurance
• Access to Montana Health Centers low-cost clinics for state employees and their families
• State retirement plan and additional savings opportunities (deferred compensation)
• Employees in this position receive overtime compensation or compensatory time for all time in a pay status over 40 hours in a workweek
• Paid vacation sick leave and holidays
• Eligibility for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness
• Benefits apply on a first day of employment

For information on the Montana Department of Transportations mission vision and values please visit our website: who needs to request a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the HR staff identified on the job listing or by dialing the Montana Relay at 711. Montana Job Service Offices also offer services including assistance with submitting an online application.

State government does not discriminate based on race color national origin religion sex sexual orientation gender identity or expression pregnancy childbirth or medical conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth age physical or mental disability genetic information marital status creed political beliefs or affiliation veteran status military service retaliation or any other factor not related to merit and qualifications of an employee or applicant.

Required Application Materials:

• A resume detailing your qualifications and work history.
• Your online application and all required materials must be submitted before midnight on the closing date. Ensure all materials submitted are selected as Relevant.

Required Education and Experience:

• Level 1: The required knowledge and skills are typically acquired through a combination of education and experience equivalent to a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Level 2: The required knowledge and skills are typically acquired through a combination of education and experience equivalent to a high school diploma or equivalent and one year of materials lab technician related work experience or qualification based upon Helena Materials Lab Advancement Policies.
• Level 3: The required knowledge and skills are typically acquired through a combination of education and experience equivalent to a high school diploma or equivalent and two years of materials lab technician related work experience or qualification based upon Helena Materials Lab Advancement Policies.
• Combinations of additional related work experience and education equivalent to the minimum qualifications may be considered.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities:

• The position requires understanding of materials inspection and testing procedures laboratory testing protocols and procedures and applicable safety practices
• The position requires skills in operating a variety of testing equipment; both mechanical and electrical.
• Skill in performing calculations using computer software maintaining accuracy and precision attention to detail time management flexibility and adaptability.

Other Information:

• The advertised salary includes the 2.5% increase passed by the 2025 MT State Legislature regarding the state pay plan effective July 1 2026.
• This position is being posted in accordance with the bargaining unit agreement. Non-bargaining unit employees or employees of another bargaining unit may apply. If the position is not filled with a bargaining unit applicant the non-bargaining unit applicants may be considered. However bargaining unit applicants will have preference.
• The Montana Department of Transportation is an equal opportunity employer. Women racial and ethnic minorities people with disabilities and veterans and disabled veterans are encouraged to apply. People with disabilities needing assistance in the application process or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may call the Human Resources and Occupational Safety Division at 406.444.6054.
• The Montana Department of Transportation is committed to continuous improvement of our employee safety program and our safety and health processes and to achieving an injury-free workplace.
• Effective 5/26/2026 MDT is participating in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. After accepting a job offer and completing Form I-9 your information will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration for verification. For more information about E-Verify please visit the E-Verify website found here . Proof of eligibility to work in the United States must be provided if selected for hire.