Principal Geomaterials Scientist Vacancy

Sandberg LLP; Greater London; On-site; GBP 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Sandberg LLP in London seeks a Principal Geomaterials Scientist to lead investigations of concrete, mortar, masonry and other construction materials, working with geologists, materials scientists, chemists and engineers. Primarily laboratory-based, the role involves designing and managing testing programmes and delivering client-ready reports across the UK and internationally.

The successful candidate will have advanced petrography skills, Chartered Geologist status, and a proven track record of

Qualifications

• Degree in Geology, Materials Science, or related discipline.
• Chartered Geologist (CGeol) status preferred.
• Advanced petrography skills with microscopy of construction materials.

Responsibilities

• Lead petrographic analysis of construction materials (concrete, mortar, render, adhesives) using microscopy and SEM/EDX.
• Interpret mineralogical, chemical and microstructural data from SEM/XRD analyses.
• Design, manage and oversee laboratory testing and investigation programmes.
• Lead and support laboratory and site-based investigations and manage client relationships.
• Prepare high-quality reports and mentor junior staff.

Skills

Advanced petrography

Chartered Geologist

Leadership

Technical report-writing

Client liaison

Education

Geology or Materials Science degree

Tools

Optical microscopy

SEM/EDX

XRD

Job description

Principal Geomaterials Scientist Vacancy

We are looking for an accomplished Principal Geomaterials Scientist to join our highly regarded Geomaterials Department in London.

This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced specialist in petrography and construction materials to take a leading role in complex investigations, work with industry-recognised experts, and contribute to some of the most challenging and high-profile projects in the UK and internationally.

You will provide technical leadership on a diverse range of investigations involving concrete, mortar, masonry, natural stone and other construction materials. Working alongside geologists, materials scientists, chemists and engineers, you will deliver expert analysis and build trusted relationships with clients.

You will play a key role in project delivery, technical excellence and the development of junior staff, helping to shape the future growth of the department. The role is primarily laboratory-based in London, with site-based investigations across the UK and occasional international assignments.

Responsibilities

You will:

• Lead petrographic analysis of construction materials, including concrete, mortar, render and adhesives using optical microscopy and SEM/EDX techniques.
• Interpret mineralogical, chemical and microstructural data obtained through SEM and XRD analyses.
• Design, manage and oversee laboratory testing and investigation programmes
• Lead and support laboratory and site-based investigations.
• Manage client relationships and oversee project delivery.
• Interpret and analyse technical data and prepare high-quality reports.
• Provide technical guidance, mentoring and training to junior colleagues.
• Contribute to the continuous development of Sandberg’s technical capabilities and reputation within the industry.

About you

We are seeking a technically accomplished geomaterials scientist with a passion for investigation, problem-solving, and professional excellence.

• Prior work experience (ideally >10 years in a similar industry) or someone with experience in relevant academia wishing to start working in industry
• Degree in Geology, Materials Science, or a related discipline
• Chartered Geologist (CGeol)
• Advanced petrography skills, including plane-polarised, cross-polarised and reflected light microscopy of concrete and other construction materials
• Strong technical report-writing and communication skills
• Dynamic work ethic to learn and develop new skills
• Demonstrable experience managing projects and interacting directly with clients

Desired experience

The following experience would be advantageous:

• Concrete petrography, including the identification and assessment of concrete deterioration mechanisms.
• Cement chemistry and the behaviour of cementitious materials.
• Interpretation and evaluation of SEM/EDX (Scanning Electron Microscopy/Energy Dispersive X-ray) analytical data.
• Investigation and assessment of historic and heritage construction materials.
• Expert Witness investigations, technical reporting, and the preparation of evidence for legal proceedings.

What we offer

For more than 165 years, Sandberg has provided independent technical expertise to the construction, engineering and infrastructure sectors. Our reputation is built on scientific rigour, technical excellence and trusted client relationships, which enables us to work on nationally and internationally significant projects.

Our Geomaterials Department is one of the largest and most technically capable teams of its kind in the UK. It is supported by extensive laboratory facilities, including in-house sample preparation capabilities and an advanced microscopy suite that contains a research-grade optical microscope and scanning electron microscopes. We deliver industry-leading investigations into construction materials, geological materials and structural performance.

We recognise that people are our greatest asset and we foster a supportive and collaborative working environment. We are proud to have a community feel and employ staff from a variety of different backgrounds. We are committed to continuing to develop a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome and will consider all applications that meet the above requirements.