Job introduction

Skillset: Materials Engineering 

Job location: North Acton 

Accessible by public transport? Yes – Subway Central Line and others 

Working hours: Weekdays  

Contract: Permanent  

Flexible working: We welcome you to ask about the flexibility you need. This might be part-time, remote working, or compressed hours for example. Anyone who applies for a role can ask about flexibility at interview. In return, we will explore what is possible for the role.   

Role 

We are seeking an individual to work as a Materials Technician in close coordination with the site team and the on-site laboratory. 

Role responsibility

Key Responsibilities 

• Carry out laboratory testing on soils, aggregates, and concrete in accordance with relevant standards 

(e.g. BS EN, BS 1377, BS EN 12350/12390)  

• Undertake in-situ testing within a live construction environment  

• Perform materials sampling in line with technical specifications and project requirements  

• Ensure appropriate sample identification, handling, storage, and traceability  

• Maintain accurate, clear, and legible records of all testing and sampling activities  

• Complete administrative documentation in accordance with QA/QC and UKAS requirements  

• Record test results using approved laboratory and site proformas  

• Work in compliance with documented QA/QC systems, including UKAS-accredited procedures  

• Follow all applicable technical specifications, standards, and method statements  

• Carry out basic equipment calibration checks where required  

• Maintain laboratory and site equipment in good working condition  

• Ensure proper use and upkeep of company vehicles  

• Identify and manage risks associated with testing and site activities  

• Comply with all health, safety, and environmental requirements  

• Liaise with client representatives regarding testing requirements and site activities  

• Demonstrate flexibility to work across different locations based on operational needs  

• Show reliability and dependability to meet client programme requirements  

• Demonstrate willingness to learn and adapt to operational changes 

The ideal candidate

Required qualifications, skills, behaviours and attributes 

• HND/HNC/NVQ in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Geology or related discipline 

• 3–5 years of relevant experience in materials testing (soils, aggregates, concrete, or site testing) 

• Good communication skills, both written and verbal 

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team 

• Reliable with strong time management and punctuality 

• Willingness to work overtime, including weekends and/or night shifts where required 

• CSCS card 

• Full UK driving licence 

About the Company

The role will work on the HS2 project. HS2 is the UK’s new high speed rail network. It will be a catalyst for economic growth across Britain, freeing up space on the existing railways and connecting 8 out of the UK’s 10 biggest cities with fast, reliable and frequent high speed services 

The Skanska | Costain | STRABAG (SCS JV) is delivering the HS2 Main Civils Contracts which include both 

Lots S1 (Euston Tunnels & Approaches) and S2 (Northolt Tunnels). The combined value of the contracts is around £1.8billion with the works due for completion in 2025.  Scope of works includes twin-bored tunnels 

(TBM), SCL tunnels, shaft sinking, bridge demolition and reconstruction, services diversions, earthworks and the construction of site compounds.  

You’ll be a welcomed member of the wider team, with opportunities to take on additional responsibility, 

join one of our networks for women, military or LGBT+ staff, and participate in cultural and social events with the local community (e.g. as a STEM ambassador).  

Your personal and professional development is important to us. We welcome a discussion about how we can support you with further study, or professional membership or attainment for example.  

HS2 – working with Skanska, Costain and STRABAG, closely monitors job applications, to ensure an inclusive recruitment process. To ensure we are able to maintain this, and to recruit a diverse workforce, we require candidates to complete the diversity form as part of their application so we are able to monitor and improve our approach to diversity.  Please note, all responses are anonymous and we will not share any of your data with other parties. All data will be held securely, (as stated within the Data Protection Act 1998) and will be reported to HS2.