Sr Petrographer

American Engineering Testing Inc

St Paul, Minnesota, United States

Job Description

The Senior Petrographer is an expert-level specialist in petrography, responsible for leading forensic investigations, mentoring junior petrographers, and providing high-level consulting on material performance and failure mechanisms. This role focuses on strategic petrographic research, advanced microscopy techniques, and leadership in materials analysis.

At this level, professionals oversee complex projects, guide internal teams, and contribute to industry best practices through technical expertise, process improvements, and knowledge-sharing. The Senior Petrographer also supports business development initiatives by engaging with clients, engineers, and research institutions to advance AET’s expertise in petrography.

This role prepares individuals for Principal Petrographer, where leadership expands to include industry thought leadership, research contributions, and strategic consulting at a national level.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

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

• 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
• Provide technical oversight for material characterization projects, ensuring quality control and best practices in petrographic analysis.
• 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.
• Provide mentorship and leadership for 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,…