What are the responsibilities and job description for the Laboratory Manager – Construction Materials & Geotechnical position at United Consulting Group, ltd.?
Description
United Consulting is seeking a highly experienced Laboratory Manager to lead and grow our construction materials and geotechnical laboratory operations. This role is responsible for overseeing laboratory performance, ensuring compliance with accreditation standards, maintaining technical excellence, and supporting business growth across Georgia and the Southeast.
The ideal candidate is a strong technical leader with proven experience managing accredited laboratories, developing teams, and building client relationships, with a focus on delivering high-quality, timely, and reliable testing services.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Laboratory Management
- Provide overall leadership and direction for laboratory operations, staff, and performance
- Manage and mentor laboratory personnel, including technicians and support staff
- Establish staffing plans, workload distribution, and performance expectations
- Promote a culture of safety, accountability, responsiveness, and continuous improvement
Quality, Accreditation & Compliance
- Maintain and oversee laboratory accreditations (GDOT, AASHTO, CCRL, AMRL, USACE, etc.)
- Lead preparation for internal and external audits and ensure successful outcomes
- Ensure compliance with all applicable standards, including ASTM, AASHTO, and client specifications
- Maintain laboratory quality systems, documentation, and personnel certifications
- Ensure accuracy, consistency, and integrity of all testing data and reports
Technical Oversight
- Provide technical leadership for laboratory testing, including:
- Soils classification, compaction, consolidation, shear testing, Triaxial, etc.
- Aggregate testing and gradation analysis
- Concrete sampling, curing, and compressive strength testing
- Asphalt and specialty materials testing (as applicable)
- Review and approve laboratory results, calculations, and reports
- Troubleshoot complex testing issues and provide solutions
Project & Client Management
- Coordinate with project managers and field teams to support project execution
- Establish testing scopes, schedules, and turnaround expectations
- Serve as a key point of contact for clients on laboratory-related matters
- Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, agencies, and partners
- Ensure timely delivery of high-quality results to support project success
Operations & Financial Performance
- Monitor laboratory productivity, utilization, and efficiency
- Assist with budgeting, forecasting, and cost control
- Manage laboratory resources, equipment, and inventory
- Ensure alignment between operational performance and company financial goals
Coordination & External Engagement
- Interface with regulatory agencies, clients, and subcontractors in a professional manner
- Collaborate with internal departments (geotechnical, environmental, CMT, CEI)
- Support company-wide initiatives and cross-office coordination
Requirements
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or related field
- Minimum 4–8 years of experience in construction materials testing and/or geotechnical laboratory operations
- In lieu of a degree, candidates with 10–15 years of progressive experience in construction materials testing and/or geotechnical laboratory operations will be strongly considered
- Proven experience managing or leading laboratory teams and operations
- Strong knowledge of ASTM, AASHTO, and DOT testing procedures
- Experience managing laboratory accreditation programs and audits
- Demonstrated ability to manage projects, staff, and client relationships
- Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills
Preferred Qualifications
- Licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) in Georgia (or ability to obtain)
- Certifications such as ACI, NICET, or equivalent
- Experience with GDOT laboratory requirements and regional agency standards
- Experience with advanced geotechnical testing (triaxial, consolidation, permeability, etc.)
- Experience supporting both field and laboratory operations
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds on a regular basis
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods
- Ability to work both in a laboratory environment and occasionally in the field as needed
- Ability to handle and transport samples, molds, and testing equipment safely
- Must be able to work in varying conditions, including exposure to dust, noise, and temperature changes
Key Competencies
- Strong leadership and team-building skills
- Client-focused mindset with relationship-building ability
- Technical expertise and sound engineering judgment
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Strategic thinking with a focus on growth and improvement