Research And Development Chemist

# Research And Development ChemistAGR, LLCBe an Early Applicant Full Time junior Mc Lean , Virginia, USPosted Today##

Role Overview AGR, LLC is hiring a entry-level Research And Development Chemist. This is a full-time role in McLean. posted today. applications are still in the early window, before most candidates have applied. Full responsibilities, required qualifications, and the apply link are listed in the description below.## Resume Keywords to Include Make sure these keywords appear in your resume to improve ATS scoringSEMORInventory Research Chemist Level Aggregate Materials Sign  up free to auto-tailor your resume with all these keywords and get a higher ATS score##

Job Description Research Chemist – Level 2 (Aggregate Materials & Materials Characterization)

Location:

Turner–Fairbank Highway Research Center (McLean, VA)

Employer:

Advanced Global Resources (AGR), LLC a contractor to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
Position Type:
Full-Time, On-Site

Work Hours:

Monday through Friday Clearance:
Must pass a federal background check### About the Role We are seeking a Research Chemist – Level 2 to support the Federal Highway Administration’s Chemistry Laboratory (CHEM) at the Turner–Fairbank Highway Research Center. This position plays a key role in advancing national research on pavement and structural materials, with a strong emphasis on aggregate materials, concrete durability, and materials characterization.

The ideal candidate brings hands-on laboratory experience, strong analytical skills, and a demonstrated record of peer‐reviewed publications or federal technical reports.

Key Responsibilities
* Conduct applied and basic research on aggregates, concrete constituents, and pavement materials.
* Perform chemical and microstructural characterization using XRD, XRF, FTIR, Raman, ICP‐OES/MS, TGA/DSC, SEM‐EDS, and particle size analysis.
* Investigate coarse–fine aggregate chemical interactions, alkali–silica reactivity (ASR), and portland limestone cement (PLC) durability.
* Develop and refine analytical protocols and standard operating procedures.
* Prepare literature reviews, research work plans, test matrices, and Work Plan Packages.
* Maintain accurate raw and processed data in accordance with FHWA data management requirements.
* Operate laboratory equipment safely and support routine maintenance, calibration, and inventory tracking.
* Prepare high‐quality technical deliverables including research reports, Tech Briefs, and peer‐reviewed manuscripts.
* Support FHWA Technical Assistance Requests through laboratory testing, forensic evaluations, and field sampling.
* Present research findings to FHWA staff, state DOTs, and external stakeholders.

Required Qualifications
* Master’s degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Civil/Materials Engineering, or a related field.
* Demonstrated publication experience (peer‐reviewed journals or federal technical reports).
* Hands-on experience with analytical instrumentation relevant to cementitious and aggregate materials.
* Knowledge of concrete materials, aggregate mineralogy, and durability mechanisms (ASR, sulfate attack, carbonation).
* Strong technical writing and communication skills.
* Ability to follow laboratory safety protocols and develop SOPs.
* US Citizen or approved work authorization with at least 3 years of residence in the last 5 years in the United States.
* Must be able to pass a federal background check###

Preferred Qualifications
* Experience with PLC systems, ASR testing (ASTM C1260, C1293, C1567), and SCM characterization.
* Familiarity with AASHTO and ASTM standards for concrete and aggregate testing.
* Experience in federal, academic, or industrial research environments.
* Ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.

Physical Requirements
* Ability to lift 50 lbs and handle aggregates, concrete specimens, and laboratory materials.
* Ability to work in laboratory, sample preparation, and occasional field environments.
* Must comply with all TFHRC safety and training requirements.

Why Join Us?
* Contribute to nationally impactful infrastructure research.
* Work with state-of-the-art analytical instrumentation.
* Collaborate with leading experts in materials science and transportation research.
* Support FHWA’s mission to improve the durability, safety, and performance of the nation’s highways.
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