What are the responsibilities and job description for the Quality Control Lab Assistant - Asphalt Emulsions & Pavement Preservation position at Vestal Asphalt, Inc.?
About Us:
Vestal Asphalt, Inc. is a family-owned paving and construction company located in Vestal, NY. We are extremely passionate about what we do and who we are. We are "The Best Mix" of good people, quality products, and honest service for more than 40 years.
About You:
You are reliable, detail-oriented, inquisitive, and take pride in your work. You possess strong organizational skills and a commitment to quality. You thrive in a dynamic laboratory environment, communicate clearly, and find satisfaction in delivering precise results. You are eager to learn and build hands-on expertise in materials science and pavement technology under direct industry mentorship.
About the Position:
The QC Lab Assistant performs daily physical and analytical testing on liquid asphalt emulsions and pavement preservation materials. Reporting directly to the Lab Manager, this role ensures all manufactured products meet internal quality standards and DOT specifications. You will assist with cold-mix and Full-Depth Reclamation (FDR) mix designs, gain valuable exposure to civil materials testing, and periodically collect field samples across local job sites using company-provided transportation.
Lab Assistant Job Duties:
- Asphalt Emulsion & Binder Testing: Perform routine QC testing (viscosity, distillation, penetration, residue, elastic recovery) per AASHTO/ASTM/NYSDOT/PENNDOT standards.
- Aggregates & Compatibility: Test aggregate gradations and conduct coating, stripping, and breaking compatibility tests for chip seals, micro-surfacing, slurry seals, fog seals, and tack coats.
- Cold-Mix & FDR Mix Designs: Batch, compact, and test specimens to determine optimal binder, aggregate, and chemical additive proportions for pavement recycling projects.
- Field Sampling: Travel locally to stockpile locations, aggregate quarries, and active job sites to collect representative liquid, aggregate, RAP, and pavement core samples.
- Certification: Assist with NYSDOT & PENNDOT Asphalt Emulsion Certification Testing
- Lab Operations & Safety: Clean and calibrate testing equipment, maintain digital test logs, and strictly adhere to thermal and chemical safety protocols.
Candidate Requirements:
- Education: High School Diploma or GED required; Associate degree or coursework in Chemistry, Civil Engineering Technology, or a related science field is preferred.
- Experience: Minimum 1 years of hands-on laboratory testing experience required (industrial, analytical, academic, or manufacturing lab). Prior experience with asphalt emulsions, aggregates, or DOT testing is a strong plus, but trainable.
- Technical & Math Skills: Strong laboratory algebra skills (calculating ratios, percentages, moisture content) and accurate data entry habits. Familiarity with standard spreadsheet & document software.
- Driving & Physical Readiness: Valid Driver’s License with a clean record required for local field sampling; ability to lift up to 50 lbs; comfortable handling hot liquids and working around active paving equipment.
Why Join Us?
- Enjoy who you work with. We employ great people.
- Competitive pay and advancement opportunity.
- Direct mentorship from experienced Lab Management and opportunities for industry testing certifications
- Comprehensive benefits package (Health Insurance, Dental/Vision, 401K Match, Paid Time Off, etc.)
To apply or for more information, email your resume to: HR@VestalAsphalt.com
Pay: $22.00 - $27.00 per hour
Expected hours: No less than 40.0 per week
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Vision insurance
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Work Location: In person
Salary : $22 - $27