What are the responsibilities and job description for the Laboratory Manager- Materials Testing position at Vistal?
WHS is seeking an experienced and motivated Laboratory Manager to lead operations at our AASHTO-accredited materials testing laboratory in Lander, Wyoming.
This position is responsible for overseeing laboratory and field testing operations, managing technical staff, ensuring compliance with applicable standards, and maintaining strong client relationships.
The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented leader with a strong background in construction materials testing who can successfully balance technical oversight, project coordination, team development, and client communication.
Key Responsibilities
Project & Laboratory Oversight:
This position is responsible for overseeing laboratory and field testing operations, managing technical staff, ensuring compliance with applicable standards, and maintaining strong client relationships.
The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented leader with a strong background in construction materials testing who can successfully balance technical oversight, project coordination, team development, and client communication.
Key Responsibilities
Project & Laboratory Oversight:
- Manage materials testing projects from assignment through final reporting
- Coordinate laboratory and field testing schedules to meet project deadlines and client expectations
- Ensure all testing is performed in accordance with ASTM, AASHTO, DOT, FAA, and project-specific requirements
- Monitor project scope, budgets, timelines, and staffing needs
- Review and approve testing reports for accuracy, completeness, and compliance
- Supervise and support laboratory and field materials testing technicians
- Establish expectations for safety, quality, professionalism, and documentation
- Assist with onboarding, training, mentoring, and professional development of staff
- Promote accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement within the organization
- Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, contractors, and project stakeholders
- Communicate testing results and project updates clearly and professionally
- Respond to scheduling changes, field issues, and client concerns in a timely manner
- Develop and maintain strong long-term client relationships
- Maintain compliance with AASHTO accreditation requirements and applicable testing standards
- Ensure proper calibration, maintenance, and documentation of laboratory equipment
- Maintain accurate and defensible project records and testing documentation
- Identify potential project risks and implement proactive solutions
- Promote and enforce a strong safety culture throughout laboratory and field operations
- Experience in construction materials testing, including soils, concrete, asphalt, and aggregate testing
- Working knowledge of ASTM, AASHTO, WYDOT, FAA, and related industry standards
- Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
- Experience supervising technical or laboratory personnel preferred
- Relevant certifications such as ACI, NICET, WAQTC, Troxler, or equivalent preferred
- Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to project sites as needed
- Stable and growing employee-owned company
- Professional and team-oriented work environment
- Opportunities for advancement and leadership development
- Competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications
- Meaningful work supporting critical infrastructure and construction projects throughout the region