Materials Scientist/Engineer

General Responsibilities

Are you curious about how materials behave, why they fail, and how they can be improved? Terracon is seeking an early-career Materials Scientist or Engineer to join our growing Materials Science Laboratory operations in St. Paul, MN.

Essential Roles And Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory testing and evaluation of concrete, cement, supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), aggregates, and related construction materials.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot analytical instruments and laboratory equipment used for materials characterization, petrography, and performance evaluation.
• Collect, organize, analyze, and document laboratory data to support project objectives, technical investigations, and client deliverables.
• Support petrographic examinations, materials chemistry evaluations, and investigations related to material performance, durability, quality, and deterioration mechanisms.
• Prepare data summaries, technical reports, presentations, and project documentation, and effectively communicate technical findings to internal and external clients.
• Collaborate with scientists, engineers, geologists, and technicians on a variety of laboratory, materials science, and consulting projects.
• Participate in the continuous improvement of laboratory methods, testing procedures, quality systems, and technical expertise through training, mentorship, and hands-on experience.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Geology, Materials Science, Physics, Engineering, or a related STEM discipline.
• Coursework or academic experience in mineralogy, materials science, concrete materials, cement chemistry, civil engineering, or structural engineering is preferred.
• Relevant industry experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• 1 to 3 years of experience in a laboratory, research, consulting, or industrial setting.
• Experience with analytical instrumentation or laboratory testing in industry is preferred.
• Prior experience on one or more of the following analytical instrumentation methods preferred: X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM/EDS), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Atomic Absorption (AA), Mass Spectroscopy, and Optical Microscopy.
• Demonstrated curiosity, initiative, and a desire to solve complex technical problems, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively document and communicate technical findings.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.