Class Code: 04342

IOWA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES –

HUMAN RESOURCES ENTERPRISE

MATERIALS TECHNICIAN 3

DEFINITION

Under general supervision, performs technical on-site field or technical laboratory work in the sampling, testing, and inspection of materials used in highway construction and maintenance projects; performs related work as required.

The Work Examples and Competencies listed are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be the primary basis for position classification decisions.

WORK EXAMPLES

Performs materials sampling, inspection, and testing activities in the central laboratory or assigned field area in order to assure compliance with all requirements for sampling and testing through the use of complex plans and specifications.

Determines by using various testing devices and techniques: the deflection of the sub-grade, sub-base, or surface courses; the rideability characteristics of road surfaces; the profile of flexible and rigid bases or surfaces; the load bearing capacity of pilings on construction sites; and the skid resistance of both old and new road surfaces.

Calibrates equipment utilized in the field and central laboratory testing and inspection of materials.

Gathers samples and data pertaining to the consistency and depth of Portland cement and asphaltic concrete pavements.

Maintains records of materials sampled to include the date, time, location, type of material, and any tests required to document results.

Inspects operations in an assigned group of quarries to insure adherence to specification limits; conducts progress inspections and final sampling and testing procedures.

Inspects and grades aggregates produced in an assigned area.

Performs a variety of testing and inspection activities on materials and/or products such as: aggregates, soil samples, asphalt concrete, Portland cement concrete, metals, paints, textiles, and automotive products to determine the various measurements and physical properties specified for suitability, safety, and effectiveness of use in the construction and maintenance of highways.

Designated positions perform duties related to snow and ice removal, which include: operating the Roadway Weather Information System (RWIS), the Data Transmission Network (DTN), and related computers and software applications to record and receive data and make decisions regarding times, temperatures, weather conditions, and material usage to operate snow and ice removal equipment such as single or tandem axle dump trucks that may be equipped with tailgate or hopper spreader, straight blades or V-plows, wing plows, and underside ice blades; includes preparing and spreading abrasives and de-icing chemicals on the roadway by using a loader for mixing abrasives and chemicals.

COMPETENCIES REQUIRED

Knowledge of the standards and specifications involved in the testing and inspection of materials used in the construction and maintenance of highways.

Knowledge of the basic principles of physical science as required by specific work assignments.

Knowledge of the equipment and procedures used by materials producers.

Designated positions will require the:

Ability to work out-of-doors in all types of weather conditions.

Ability to lift and load items weighing up to 95 pounds to the height of 55 inches above ground.

Knowledge of effects of weather on road surfaces.

Knowledge of the anti-icing and de-icing principles.

Ability to drive trucks and other vehicles in a safe and conscientious manner.

Ability to appropriately use anti-icing or de-icing materials.

Skill in the use of the Roadway Weather Information System (RWIS) and the Data Transmission Network (DTN).

Ability to receive, record, and communicate data or observations accurately and legibly.

Ability to apply the basic principles of physical science as required by specific work assignments.

Ability to operate, maintain, and calibrate equipment used in the materials sampling and analysis process.

Ability to understand oral and written instructions and apply them to practical work situations.

Ability to perform mathematical calculations such as algebraic equations, addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

Ability to perform basic scientific tests to determine the physical properties of materials used in the construction and maintenance of highways.

Displays high standards of ethical conduct. Exhibits honesty and integrity. Refrains from theft-related, dishonest or unethical behavior.

Works and communicates with internal and external clients and customers to meet their needs in a polite, courteous, and cooperative manner. Committed to quality service.

Displays a high level of initiative, effort and commitment towards completing assignments efficiently. Works with minimal supervision. Demonstrates responsible behavior and attention to detail.

Responds appropriately to supervision. Follows policy and cooperates with supervisors.

Aligns behavior with the needs, priorities and goals of the organization.

Encourages and facilitates cooperation, pride, trust, and group identity. Fosters commitment and team spirit.

Expresses information to individuals or groups effectively, taking into account the audience and nature of the information. Listens to others and responds appropriately.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

The equivalent of three years of full-time experience in the sampling, testing, and/or inspection of materials used in highway construction and maintenance projects;

OR

an equivalent combination of education and experience substituting the equivalent of one year (30 semester hours or the equivalent) of college, university, or technical school course work with an emphasis in mathematics, engineering, metallurgy, geology, or chemistry for each year of the required work experience to a maximum substitution of two years;

OR

employees with current continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes the equivalent of one year of full-time experience as a Materials Technician 2.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

As of September 10, 2004, all designated positions within the Department of Transportation require a valid Commercial Driver’s License Instruction Permit upon hire. Within 14 calendar days following appointment, a valid Class A or B Commercial Driver’s License must be obtained, with air brake and other required endorsements, in order to continue employment.

NOTE:

All of the following apply to Department of Transportation positions only:

In conjunction with Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (parts 391 & 40), designated positions in this job class require a pre-employment drug screen and will require ongoing participation in the employer’s random drug and alcohol testing program.

After accepting an offer of employment, employees in designated positions are required to have a physical examination by a doctor of choice verifying the physical ability to perform the duties described.

Employees in designated positions must be available to travel and may be required to stay away from home overnight during assignments.

Effective Date: 09/04 BK