Asphalt Plant Lab Technician (Quality Control / Hot Mix Asphalt Technician) - US Citizen or Green Card Holder ONLY

Cakum Global is looking for an Asphalt Plant Lab Technician (Quality Control / Hot Mix Asphalt Technician) for an Airfield Asphalt Construction operation with our client on a remote U.S. island in the Pacific. The role is a full-time independent contractor (1099) role for a period of 4 to 5 years.

Job Summary The Asphalt Plant Lab Technician is responsible for conducting laboratory testing and quality control procedures on asphalt mixtures, aggregates, binders, and other materials at an asphalt production facility. This role ensures that all hot mix asphalt (HMA) produced meets project specifications, state DOT requirements, and quality standards through accurate sampling, testing, data analysis, and reporting. The technician works closely with plant operators, QC managers, and paving crews to maintain consistent product quality, troubleshoot issues, and support safe, efficient operations.

Key Responsibilities and Duties

• Collect samples of aggregates, asphalt binder, emulsions, and hot mix asphalt from the plant, stockpiles, or production line according to established procedures.
• Perform daily and routine QC testing on HMA, including (but not limited to):
• Gradation/sieve analysis of aggregates
• Asphalt content determination (e.g., ignition oven or extraction methods)
• Density and specific gravity testing
• Gyratory compaction (e.g., Superpave mix design verification)
• Temperature checks and volumetric properties
• Air voids, voids in mineral aggregate (VMA), voids filled with asphalt (VFA), and other mix properties
• Conduct tests on raw materials (e.g., aggregate gradations, moisture content, binder properties) to support mix design verification and adjustments.
• Record, analyze, and report test results accurately and in a timely manner; maintain detailed logs, spreadsheets, and documentation for compliance and traceability.
• Monitor production quality in real-time and communicate any deviations or non-conformances to plant personnel and QC manager for immediate corrective action.
• Assist in developing or verifying asphalt mix designs, including batching trial mixes and preparing specimens.
• Calibrate, inspect, maintain, and clean laboratory equipment (e.g., ovens, scales, sieves, gyratory compactors, ignition furnaces) to ensure accuracy and safety.
• Adhere to all safety protocols, including proper handling of hot materials, PPE usage, lab housekeeping, and hazard awareness (e.g., heat, fumes, dust).
• Troubleshoot basic testing or material issues and recommend adjustments to improve quality.
• Support plant operations as needed, such as visual inspections of loads or coordination with paving crews.
• Ensure compliance with governing agency specifications (e.g., state DOT, FHWA) and industry standards (AASHTO, ASTM).

Required Qualifications

• Must be a United States Citizen or Green Card holder (NON-NEGOTIABLE).
• High school diploma or GED required; associate degree or technical certification in materials testing, civil engineering technology, or related field preferred.
• 1plus years of experience in construction materials testing, asphalt lab work, or related field (entry-level candidates with relevant certifications may be considered).
• Knowledge of asphalt testing procedures, mix design principles, and quality control in hot mix asphalt production.
• Familiarity with standard test methods (AASHTO, ASTM) for aggregates and asphalt mixtures.
• Basic math skills (including percentages, weights, and algebra) and ability to use measuring devices (scales, calipers, etc.).
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to work independently or in a team.
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand for extended periods, work in hot/outdoor environments, and handle hot materials safely.
• Proficiency with computers for data entry, reporting, and basic software (e.g., Excel, QC logging systems).

Preferred Qualifications

• Certifications such as:
• ACI or state DOT Level 1/2 Asphalt Technician
• Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) Quality Control/Assurance certification
• Troxler or similar nuclear gauge certification (if applicable for density testing)
• OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety certification
• Experience with Superpave mix design, performance-graded (PG) binders, or specific equipment (e.g., ignition ovens, gyratory compactors).
• Prior work in an asphalt plant or construction materials lab setting.