Geochemist

RJ Lee Group Inc; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

RJ Lee Group Inc. is seeking a Geochemist to advance the Concrete Materials Department by applying cement chemistry, reaction mechanisms, and materials science.

The role includes method development, client support, and expanding capabilities in natural pozzolans and SCMs, with collaboration across multidisciplinary teams for construction projects. The candidate should have 5+ years in a cement/construction materials lab and hold a relevant advanced degree.

Qualifications

• BS/MS/PhD in geochemistry or physical chemistry is required; MS/PhD in materials science or civil engineering also acceptable.
• Minimum 5 years in a cement, concrete, or construction materials lab with emphasis on chemical characterization.

Responsibilities

• Perform hands-on technical work to support and expand the Concrete Materials Department.
• Develop and validate analytical methods for cement, SCMs, and concrete materials.
• Provide expert guidance on natural pozzolans and SCMs usage and evaluation.
• Apply geochemistry and physical chemistry to interpret phase assemblages and reaction mechanisms.
• Independently manage research projects from planning through client delivery.
• Collaborate with engineers and manufacturers to develop innovative solutions.
• Communicate technical findings clearly to diverse audiences.
• Assist with business development and client engagement activities.
• Promote scientific integrity, compliance, and continuous improvement.

Skills

Cement chemistry

Hydration mechanisms

SCMs

Pozzolans

Analytical techniques

ASTM/AASHTO

ISO 17025

XRD

XRF

TGA

SEM/EDS

FTIR

Education

MS in Geochemistry or Physical Chemistry

Additional MS/PhD in Materials Science or Civil Engineering acceptable

5+ years in cement/construction materials lab

Tools

Laboratory instrumentation

Job description

Position Summary

The Geochemist will play a key role in advancing RJ Lee Group's Concrete Materials Department by applying expertise in cement chemistry, reaction mechansims and materials science. This position involves method development, client support, and the expansion of our capabilities in natural pozzolans and supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), along with collaboration across multidisciplinary teams to deliver innovative solutions for construction and infrastructure projects.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform hands‑on technical work to support and expand the Concrete Materials Department.
• Develop and validate analytical methods for cement, SCMs, and concrete materials.
• Provide expert guidance on the use and evaluation of natural pozzolans and supplementary cementitious materials.
• Apply principles of geochemistry and physical chemistry to interpret phase assemblages, reaction mechanisms, and material performance in cementitious materials.
• Independently manage research projects from planning through client delivery.
• Collaborate with engineers and manufacturers to develop innovative solutions.
• Communicate technical findings clearly to diverse audiences.
• Assist with business development and client engagement activities.
• Promote scientific integrity, compliance, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• BS, MS, or PhD in Geochemistry of Physical Chemistry required, with an MS or PhD in Materials Science, Civil Engineering, or a closely related field also acceptable.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a cement, concrete, or construction materials laboratory, with a strong emphasis on chemical characterization and materials chemistry (industry, research, or academic setting).

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of cement chemistry, hydration mechanisms, SCMs, and pozzolans.
• Proficiency in analytical techniques: XRD, XRF, TGA, SEM/EDS, FTIR.
• Familiarity with ASTM, AASHTO standards; ISO 17025 experience preferred.

Other Requirements

• Proven ability to manage projects and work collaboratively.
• Excellent communication skills for technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Willingness to travel and flexibility for project demands.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with multi‑year client programs or method validation studies.
• Previous client‑facing technical roles or business development support.

Why RJ Lee Group

• Impactful Work: Contribute to industries where materials science drives innovation.
• Career Growth: Access mentorship, leadership opportunities, and continuous learning.
• Collaborative Culture: Work in a supportive environment committed to excellen