Petrographer

Job Summary

The Petrographer is a specialized professional responsible for the microscopic examination and forensic analysis of concrete, aggregates, asphalt, and other construction materials. This role involves identifying material characteristics, diagnosing degradation mechanisms, and assessing compliance with industry standards such as ASTM C295, C856, and C457.

The Petrographer works independently on laboratory investigations, prepares technical reports, and provides material evaluations for quality control, failure analysis, and durability assessments. As a key technical expert, the Petrographer collaborates with engineers, chemists, and clients to deliver detailed insights into material performance and deterioration.

Essential Functions

Reasonable accommodation or workable solutions may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Conduct detailed petrographic examinations using stereo, polarized light, and fluorescence microscopy to analyze concrete, aggregates, cementitious materials, and asphalt.
• Identify mineralogical composition, reaction products, air-void parameters, and deterioration mechanisms in compliance with ASTM standards.
• Evaluate alkali-silica reactivity (ASR), sulfate attack, delayed ettringite formation (DEF), and other degradation factors affecting construction materials.
• Interpret microscopic observations, chemical interactions, and material defects to provide reliable forensic assessments.
• Compile detailed technical reports summarizing findings, interpretations, and recommendations for engineering consultants, contractors, and regulatory agencies.
• Provide expert insights on material performance, failure causes, and mitigation strategies.
• Participate in client discussions and technical presentations, articulating petrographic conclusions in a clear and professional manner.
• Support litigation and forensic investigations, offering detailed material analysis for legal and engineering disputes.
• Maintain and calibrate petrographic instruments, ensuring accurate and repeatable results.
• Implement quality control measures to ensure testing consistency and compliance with AET and industry standards.
• Assist in developing and refining laboratory procedures, optimizing testing methodologies for increased efficiency and accuracy.
• Stay informed on advancements in petrography, cement chemistry, and material degradation mechanisms.
• Contribute to internal training programs, mentoring junior staff and supporting the development of Petrographers-In-Training.
• Collaborate with industry organizations and participate in research projects to advance AET's expertise in construction materials analysis.

Supervisory Responsibility

• May provide mentorship and technical guidance to Petrographers-In-Training and Petrography Technicians.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in geology, materials science, chemistry, civil engineering, or a related field required.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in petrography, materials characterization, or forensic material analysis, in accordance with ASTM standards.
• Demonstrated proficiency in microscopy techniques, failure analysis, and construction material evaluations.
• Strong working knowledge of ASTM standards related to petrography and construction materials testing (C295, C856, C457, etc.).
• Experience with forensic failure analysis of concrete, aggregate, and cementitious materials.
• Ability to write technical reports and communicate findings to engineers, contractors, and legal professionals.

Preferred Skills

• Advanced knowledge of concrete chemistry, mineralogy, and deterioration mechanisms.
• Familiarity with X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and chemical analysis techniques.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for material evaluations and forensic casework.
• Effective communication skills for client interactions, technical presentations, and litigation support.
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development in petrography and material science.

Work Environment

This position operates within a laboratory setting, conducting microscopic analyses, material characterization, and forensic…