A concrete technician is an expert in the application of concrete in various applications. He or she will conduct various laboratory experiments in order to figure out how to properly use concrete and other materials, as well as work on job sites to supervise the concrete pouring process. The technician will be in charge of inspecting the finished product once it has been poured and set to ensure that it is safe and reliable. Before beginning any project, the technician should be consulted to determine what types of structures will be required and how much concrete will be required.
A high school diploma is required for becoming a concrete technician, and he or she will almost certainly need to participate in a job training program or apprenticeship. To be considered for a position as a concrete technician, some employers may require a candidate to have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. Math skills, as well as basic science skills and knowledge of the construction industry, are essential for this position. Most technicians will work in the construction industry at some point, particularly in relation to the use of concrete.
A concrete technician will need to stay up to date on new technology and techniques in the concrete industry. He or she should be an expert on materials and how they interact with concrete, as well as new construction processes, inspection techniques, and other topics. A concrete technician may be in charge of developing new techniques in the field and instructing other professionals on how to use them. The technician should expect to collaborate with other construction workers on site to ensure that materials are handled properly and concrete is poured in such a way that the final product is strong and defect-free.
When the technician inspects a completed structure, he or she must determine whether any flaws will cause the structure to become unstable or unusable. If the concrete, for example, fails to cure properly and cracks, the concrete technician must be able to determine whether the cracks will compromise the structure. Water can seep into cracks, freeze, and expand the cracks even more, posing a danger to the structure. Some cracks are not at risk of further deterioration, but the technician must make this determination.