Senior Petrographer, Forensic Materials & Failure Analysis

American Engineering Testing Inc; Saint Paul (MN); On-site; USD 87,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

American Engineering Testing Inc. in St Paul, Minnesota, is seeking a Senior Petrographer responsible for leading forensic investigations, mentoring junior petrographers, and delivering advanced consulting on material performance and failure mechanisms.

The role emphasizes PLM/SEM microscopy, ASTM standard testing, and leadership in petrographic analysis. It prepares this professional for higher leadership opportunities and industry contributions within a laboratory setting.

Qualifications

• Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in Geology, Materials Science, Civil Engineering, Chemistry, or related field.
• 8-12+ years of experience in petrography, forensic materials analysis, and construction materials assessments.
• Expertise in PLM, SEM, thin section analysis, and advanced failure investigations.
• Strong understanding of ASTM standards (C295, C856, C457).
• Experience in mentoring, peer review, and leadership within a laboratory setting.

Responsibilities

• 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 ASR/ACR, sulfate attack, DEF, freeze-thaw, chemical attack, carbonation and high-temperature damage.
• Review and refine technical reports, failure analyses, and consulting recommendations for clarity and accuracy.
• Mentor Petrographer Level 1, Level 2, and PIT professionals; lead training and peer reviews.

Skills

PLM

SEM

Thin section analysis

Advanced failure investigations

Mentoring

Education

Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in Geology, Materials Science, Civil Engineering, Chemistry, or related field

Tools

ASTM standards usage

Job description

American Engineering Testing Inc. in St Paul, Minnesota, is seeking a Senior Petrographer responsible for leading forensic investigations, mentoring junior petrographers, and delivering advanced consulting on material performance and failure mechanisms.

The role emphasizes PLM/SEM microscopy, ASTM standard testing, and leadership in petrographic analysis. It prepares this professional for higher leadership opportunities and industry contributions within a laboratory setting.