Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Gravel Checker (Aggregate Quality Control Technician)

🎯 Role Definition

The Gravel Checker, also known as an Aggregate Quality Control Technician, is a hands-on, detail-oriented professional who serves as the first line of defense for product quality within a quarry, pit, or materials processing plant. This individual is responsible for the systematic testing and inspection of sand, gravel, and crushed stone to guarantee they conform to the precise specifications required by our clients and regulatory bodies like the Department of Transportation (DOT). Your work directly ensures the structural integrity of roads, bridges, and buildings. This role is not just about testing; it’s about being a trusted partner to the production team, providing them with real-time data and feedback to optimize processes and maintain a consistent, high-quality output.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

General Laborer (Construction/Quarry)
Equipment Operator Trainee
Field Technician

Advancement To:

Lead Quality Control Technician
Quality Control Manager
Asphalt/Concrete Plant Supervisor

Lateral Moves:

Asphalt Plant Technician
Soils & Concrete Testing Technician
Plant Dispatcher

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Perform routine sampling of aggregate materials directly from conveyor belts, stockpiles, and transport trucks to ensure representative samples are collected for testing.
Conduct comprehensive sieve analysis (gradation testing) on various aggregate products to verify particle size distribution meets strict ASTM, AASHTO, and state DOT specifications.
Execute moisture content tests to provide critical data for adjustments in concrete and asphalt mix designs, ensuring product consistency.
Determine the specific gravity and absorption characteristics of coarse and fine aggregates, which are essential parameters for mix design calculations.
Methodically wash aggregate samples to determine the percentage of material passing the #200 sieve (P200), a key indicator of cleanliness and quality.
Perform crushed particle counts and assess fractured faces to ensure the angularity of the material meets engineering requirements for stability and friction.
Evaluate samples for flat and elongated particles, as these can negatively impact the workability and strength of finished construction materials.
Diligently document all test results with a high degree of accuracy and integrity, maintaining comprehensive daily logs and quality control reports.
Communicate test results and quality trends clearly and promptly to plant operators and supervisors to facilitate immediate adjustments to crushing and screening operations.
Identify, isolate, and clearly flag any non-conforming materials or production runs to prevent them from entering the supply chain.
Maintain all laboratory testing equipment in excellent working condition, performing regular cleaning, maintenance, and calibration as per established schedules.
Uphold a deep understanding of and ensure strict compliance with all relevant project specifications, including state DOT, FAA, and commercial requirements.
Conduct regular visual inspections of all material stockpiles to identify potential issues such as segregation, degradation, or contamination.
Actively participate in the investigation of any quality-related customer concerns, providing test data and historical records to assist in root cause analysis.
Maintain a safe, clean, and organized laboratory environment, adhering to all company and MSHA/OSHA safety policies and procedures without exception.
Calculate and report product yields and assist in inventory management by providing accurate data on stockpile quantities and quality.
Enter all quality data into the company’s quality management software system (e.g., Stonemont, Quadrel) in a timely and accurate manner.
Assist in training new technicians or plant personnel on proper sampling techniques, testing procedures, and safety protocols.
Perform specialized tests as required, such as the Los Angeles (L.A.) Abrasion test for hardness or the Sodium Sulfate Soundness test for durability.
Coordinate with dispatchers and truck drivers to ensure proper materials are loaded and that necessary quality checks and ticketing are completed before departure.

Secondary Functions

Support plant management with ad-hoc testing requests and contribute to special projects aimed at process improvement or new product development.
Contribute to the site's continuous improvement culture by actively providing quality data, observations, and suggestions during production meetings.
Collaborate with the sales and dispatch teams to ensure customer specifications are clearly understood, communicated, and consistently met.
Participate actively in daily toolbox talks, pre-shift safety meetings, and monthly safety committee meetings to promote a culture of safety.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Aggregate Testing Proficiency: Deep knowledge of standard test methods, especially ASTM C136 (Sieve Analysis), C117 (Materials Finer than No. 200 Sieve), C127 (Coarse Aggregate Specific Gravity), and C128 (Fine Aggregate Specific Gravity).
Specification Knowledge: Ability to read, interpret, and apply complex project specifications from various agencies, particularly state Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements.
Equipment Operation: Competency in operating and performing user-level calibration on laboratory equipment, including mechanical shakers, drying ovens, and digital scales.
Mathematical Aptitude: Strong basic math skills are essential for accurately calculating percentages, weights, averages, and other metrics required for quality reporting.
Computer Literacy: Proficiency with basic computer software, including Microsoft Excel for data logging and analysis, and the ability to learn and use specialized quality management software.
Safety Protocol Adherence: Working knowledge of MSHA and/or OSHA safety regulations for mining and construction environments.
ACI/DOT Certifications: Holding or being able to obtain certifications such as ACI Aggregate Testing Technician Level 1/2 or relevant state DOT aggregate certifications is highly desirable.

Soft Skills

Attention to Detail: An exceptional eye for detail is non-negotiable, as small variations in materials can have a significant impact on final project quality.
Independent Work Ethic: The ability to work independently and manage one's own schedule to ensure all required testing is completed in a timely manner without constant supervision.
Clear Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively report findings to a diverse audience, from plant operators to project managers.
Problem-Solving: The capacity to identify issues, analyze potential causes, and proactively suggest solutions when materials begin to drift out of specification.
Physical Stamina: Ability to work for extended periods in an outdoor environment, exposed to varying weather conditions, dust, and noise, and to lift/carry samples weighing up to 50 lbs.
Integrity and Reliability: A commitment to ethical practices and honesty in reporting results, coupled with a dependable and consistent work ethic.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED is required.

Preferred Education:

Associate’s Degree or a certificate from a technical/vocational school.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Civil Engineering Technology
Construction Management
Geology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

1-3 years of hands-on experience in a materials testing lab, quality control role, or a related position within the construction, aggregate, or asphalt industry.

Preferred:

3+ years of direct experience focused on aggregate quality control, holding current ACI or state-specific DOT aggregate technician certifications. Experience with both fine and coarse aggregate testing for asphalt and concrete production is a strong plus.