Senior Petrographer

About the job:

Managing Petrographer is responsible for leading team analyzing and interpreting the mineralogical and textural characteristics of rocks, aggregates, and construction materials. Person will individually conduct petrographic examinations to assess material quality, durability, and suitability for various engineering and industrial applications. The role involves leading laboratory testing, mentoring junior staff, and providing expert recommendations on material performance. Person should be a dynamic individual ready to grow a group, lead the team in any investigation and provide timely and economical services to our clients.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead a team of petrographers and technicians for problem solving investigations of construction defects or qualification of construction materials (aggregate and sand, etc.).
• Conduct petrographic analysis of rocks, aggregates, concrete, and other materials using polarized light microscopy, XRD, SEM, and other techniques.
• Identify mineral composition, rock types, microstructures, and potential deleterious reactions.
• Evaluate material properties to assess their durability and suitability for construction, oil & gas, and other industries.
• Prepare petrographic reports with interpretations and recommendations.
• Provide technical expertise on materials testing, quality control, and failure investigations.
• Collaborate with geologists, engineers, and project teams to resolve material-related projects.
• Ensure compliance with ASTM, AASHTO, and other relevant industry standards.
• Lead and mentor junior petrographers and laboratory technicians.
• Maintain and calibrate petrographic laboratory equipment.
• Stay updated with advancements in petrography, material science, and industry best practices.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Geology, Earth Sciences, Materials Science, or a related field.
• 5 years of experience in petrography or industrial minerals or mining industry. Experience preferred with construction materials, cement, or aggregates.
• Expertise in petrographic techniques, including optical microscopy, XRD, SEM, and chemical analysis.
• Experience working with industry standards (ASTM C295, ASTM C856, AASHTO, etc.).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and report-writing skills.
• Strong leadership and mentoring abilities.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with cross-disciplinary teams.

Who we are:

We are CTLGroup, a team of engineers, architects, scientists, and consultants who are seasoned technical experts possessing unparalleled experience, knowledge, and testing proficiency in structures and materials. Our integrated team is backed by one of the most sophisticated commercial structural and building materials laboratories in the United States. Whether providing technical consultation, conducting laboratory studies, performing failure investigations, or offering expert testimony, we aim to solve our clients' problems and assist in achieving their objectives. Beyond delivering mere data, our team provides a foundation of confidence upon which our clients can build.

*This job description describes the general nature of the position.  The above declarations are not intended to be a complete list of responsibilities, skills and abilities required to do the job. CTLGroup provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws