Sr Petrographer

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead advanced forensic petrographic investigations for concrete, aggregates, cementitious materials, and related structures.
• Perform high-level microscopy work, including thin section analysis using polarized light microscopy (PLM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
• Provide expert assessments of construction materials failures, performance issues, and deterioration mechanisms, including: Alkali-silica reaction (ASR) and alkali-carbonate reaction (ACR); sulfate attack, delayed ettringite formation (DEF), and freeze-thaw deterioration; chemical attack, carbonation, and fire/high-temperature damage assessment; long-term durability concerns in concrete, mortars, and coatings.
• Conduct ASTM standard testing methodologies, including: ASTM C295 – Petrographic examination of aggregates; ASTM C856 – Petrographic examination of hardened concrete; ASTM C457 – Air-void system analysis in hardened concrete.
• Act as a technical leader, supporting engineers, construction firms, and quality control teams in material performance evaluations and best practices.
• Review and refine technical reports, failure analyses, and consulting recommendations, ensuring clarity and technical accuracy.
• Advise on materials selection, durability optimization, and long-term performance considerations in construction projects.
• Assist clients in developing mitigation strategies for materials degradation and performance issues.
• Contribute to industry research, case studies, and material science advancements, strengthening AET’s expertise.
• Mentor and lead Petrographer Level 1, Level 2, and PIT professionals, guiding their professional growth.
• Conduct peer reviews of technical reports, ensuring high standards in forensic petrography.
• Lead internal training sessions and workshops on petrographic methodologies and advanced failure analysis.
• Support the development of laboratory protocols and testing improvements, enhancing accuracy and efficiency.
• Participate in ASTM, AASHTO, and industry committee meetings, contributing to advancements in material science.
• Engage in technical conferences, research initiatives, and knowledge-sharing programs.
• Lead research and development efforts to explore new forensic petrography techniques and material analysis methodologies.
• Develop internal best practices for forensic petrography, ensuring alignment with industry trends and innovations.
• Support business development efforts, contributing technical expertise to proposals and client discussions.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including materials testing, geotechnical engineering, and environmental consulting.
• Aid in refining AET’s petrography service offerings, expanding capabilities in forensic materials analysis.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

• Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in Geology, Materials Science, Civil Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field.
• 8-12+ years of experience in petrography, forensic materials analysis, and construction materials assessments.
• Expertise in PLM, SEM, thin section analysis, and advanced failure investigations.
• Strong understanding of ASTM standards (C295, C856, C457, and related methodologies).
• Experience in mentoring, peer review, and leadership within a laboratory setting.
• Excellent technical writing and report development skills for advanced materials analysis.
• Ability to provide strategic consulting on material selection, durability, and performance.

Preferred Skills

• Strong problem-solving and investigative skills in materials science.
• Excellent verbal and written communication for technical presentations and industry engagement.
• Ability to manage multiple high-level projects and lead research initiatives.
• Proficiency in data analysis, laboratory management, and quality control improvements.

Pay and Benefits

Base compensation is expected to be in the range of $87,000-$100,000 per year based on skill set and experience. AET offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health benefits, insurance, Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), long term savings, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.