Asphalt Lab Technician

At Knife River, we take care of our team because we know it’s our people who make us successful. We are one of the 10 largest construction materials producers/contractors in the country, and we are committed to giving them the tools, training, and time to do their jobs productively and go home safety each day. Our goal is to build strong teams that, in turn, build strong communities. We are also a publicly traded company on the NYSE with the ticker symbol KNF and part of the S&P MidCap 400 index.

Job Summary

This position is responsible to collect, prepare, test and analyze samples in order to determine gradation and characteristics, using laboratory apparatus and testing equipment. The lab tech will work directly with all members of the Quality Control, Operations, and Sales departments.

Preferred Qualifications

Hold a Level 1A certification through TXAPA is preferred.

Related college degree (or equivalent in experience or training.) is preferred.

Previous analytical laboratory experience in a regulated industry is preferred.

Previous experience with basic laboratory equipment and techniques is preferred.

Previous experience with research and development in new or current testing procedures is preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, And ABILITIES

Must be able to work overtime and be flexible with hours (day time/night time).

Limited same day local travel may be necessary.

Ability to provide or obtain and maintain proper certifications, licensures, medical card and acceptable driving record.

Ability to work independently.

Working knowledge of Microsoft Office including Outlook, Word, and Excel.

Physical & Environmental Demands

Extensive walking on uneven surfaces.

Lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

Exposure to dust, fumes, odors.

Hand eye coordination.

Exposure to mists, adhesives, acids.

Frequent and/or extended periods requiring kneeling, bending, and/or twisting.

Operating equipment at night under artificial lighting.

Working in all weather conditions for extended period of time.

Duties And/Or Responsibilities

The Technician will be responsible for maintaining a high standard for safety and integrity as set forth by Knife River.

Safely collect and test samples of all types of aggregate material, hot mix, and concrete to support plant operations and fulfill job specifications.

The Technician will be responsible for assisting in lab functions (aggregate gradations, hot mix production testing, concrete testing, trial batch mix-design, breaking specimens, etc.).

The Technician will perform Quality Control and inspection to ensure that the Company’s products, and services meet its standards and the standards set forth by our customers.

Safely and properly perform laboratory and field tests on a variety of materials (aggregate, hot mix, concrete.).

Responsible for laboratory analysis (hands-on working at the Bench.).

Follow Standard Operating Procedures and perform quality control procedures to ensure quality of analyses.

Understand and keep current with all laboratory safety and reporting techniques.

Understand and keep current with all laboratory analyses methodology.

Set up, adjust, maintain and operate laboratory equipment.

Record and report test results utilizing prescribed data reporting methodology.

Examine and evaluate data to determine material quality in relation to specifications.

Communicate test results to appropriate stakeholders.

Ensure laboratory area is clean and organized.

Maintain laboratory equipment.

Ensure quality and confidentiality of company information.

Promote responsibility, good work habits, and a positive work environment.

Communicate effectively (both verbal and written) and work with difficult people under high stress situations.

At all times, comply with Code of Integrity and Professional Conduct.

Timely and regular attendance is essential.

Perform other duties as instructed.