Society of Concrete Petrographers

Experienced Petrographer

Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. (WJE) is seeking an experienced (10 plus years) Petrographer to work out of our Janney Technical Center laboratory in Northbrook, IL. The successful candidate will have responsibility for various types of microscopical examination of construction materials, coordinating testing, interpreting results, consulting with staff scientists, engineers and architects, and interacting with clients. Materials routinely analyzed in our facility include concrete, dimension stone, stucco, mortar, brick, terra cotta, grout, aggregates, and other materials in modern and historic structures. Candidates must have excellent verbal and written communication skills, and should be self-starters, and able to work with a great team of professionals.

At WJE our history has been built upon the principle that delivering better solutions requires a better understanding of the problem. Our team of recognized petrographers and scientists provide consulting and testing services that are crucial to developing this comprehensive understanding. Our full range of services in petrography, microscopy, analytical chemistry, organic and inorganic chemistry, and physical testing of materials puts our capabilities at the forefront of the profession. The combination of our construction materials knowledge with our engineering and architectural capabilities uniquely positions WJE to deliver innovative yet sound solutions to problems. Using state-of-the-art evaluation methods, many of which were pioneered by WJE, our materials scientists have solved thousands of construction materials problems answering such questions as, why did it fail? how long will it last? and how do I fix it?

Requirements:

Degree in Geology, Materials Science/Engineering, Geological Engineering, or a related field with substantial coursework in mineralogy, petrology, and geochemistry. Master’s degree preferred.
Ten or more years of petrography experience examining construction materials.
Substantial familiarity with traditional petrographic microscopy: thin section analysis; immersion mount analysis; hand sample analysis with a stereomicroscope; point-count and modal analysis; and preparation of thin sections, polished sections, lapped hand samples, etc. Knowledge of the operation of the polarized-light microscope is essential.
Experience in polished and fracture surface analysis with SEM/EDS
Basic knowledge of complementary material characterization techniques such as x-ray diffraction, x-ray fluorescence, and atomic absorption.
Solid skills in material and mineral identification using polarized-light microscopy, and in the description and classification of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks, their mineral assemblages, and the common types of alteration
Ability to interpret results of such examinations as they apply to materials characterization, degradation mechanisms, potential future performance, specification compliance and construction quality.
Ability to write clear, concise, informative reports.
Excellent verbal communications and client relationship skills.

Key Competencies:

Energy and Enthusiasm - Consistently maintains high levels of activity and productivity.
Attention to Detail - Careful and quality oriented.
Communication - Clearly conveys information, both verbally and written.
Assumes Responsibility - Self-starter, willing to interact as a team player, and take independent initiative. Works proactively in solving problems; makes self available and takes action beyond normal responsibilities.
Interest in WJE work - Has strong desire to collaborate with WJE engineers, architects, and scientists to analyze construction materials and solve problems within the construction industry.

Candidates can view the job opportunity and read about our great company on the Careers page of our company website. All interested candidates must apply online to receive full consideration.