Research Chemist

Job Summary

The Research Chemist will independently execute laboratory testing and research activities using chemical, physical, and advanced instrumental techniques to support the analysis and characterization of cementitious materials. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate data generation, interpretation, and reporting in accordance with ASTM, AASHTO, ACI, and other applicable standards, while supporting Technical Services, Operations, Quarry and R&D initiatives, maintaining laboratory safety and quality systems, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver results from sample intake through project completion. 

Benefits

CalPortland is proud to offer a comprehensive, competitive benefits package that provides health and financial support to our most important resources: our employees. Your benefits are an important part of your overall compensation at CalPortland. That’s why we give you a wide range of benefits to choose from. 

• Medical, Dental, Vision
  • low-cost premiums even for family coverage
• Company-paid life/AD&D insurance
• Company-paid short-term disability
• Paid sick/vacation/holiday
• 401k/Company Funded Pension Program (program is dependent upon location and job type)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Additional voluntary benefits 

Compensation

Responsibilities

• Provide laboratory support for ongoing projects focused on the chemical analysis and characterization of cementitious materials. These efforts support multiple departments, including Technical Services, Operations, Quarry, and Research & Development.
• Maintain laboratory safety at its highest standard. This includes but is not limited to; assessing the risks of any tasks before starting, only performing authorized tasks, utilizing proper PPE, and ensuring the company’s guidelines and policies are adhered to.
• Conducts laboratory equipment troubleshooting, maintenance, and calibrations to meet or exceed all internal and external quality standards.
• Prepare related documentation and reports by monitoring, analyzing and collecting data, i.e., XRF, XRD, Calorimetry reports, etc.
• Conduct testing as per applicable (ASTM, AASHTO, ACI, EPA, etc.) test methods.
• Evaluate laboratory needs; equipment, testing, and quality requirements to ensure accurate analytical testing as required for projects.
• Support the Laboratory Manager and Project Coordinator in daily Central Laboratory operations, while assisting other work areas to ensure project deadlines are met.
• Assist with the laboratory’s lean and housekeeping activities

Education

• BS Degree in Chemistry, Geology, Material Science; or Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field, with a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience
• Other degrees may be acceptable depending on work experience

Requirements/Qualifications

• In-depth knowledge and expertise of cement and concrete materials with respect to current ASTM, AASHTO, and ACI standards.
• Strong hands-on experience with testing methods and analytical techniques for cementitious materials, such as XRF, XRD, LOI, Blaine fineness, density, insoluble residue, free lime, ICP, isothermal calorimetry, and related procedures. Minimum 5 years of successful laboratory work
• Must have strong math, physics, and analytical understanding.
• Strong written and verbal communications skills
• Well-versed in Microsoft Office applications (i.e., Outlook, Word, Excel, SharePoint, and Planner)
• Strong understanding of ASTM and ACI specifications
• Interpersonal skills to facilitate working relationships with all levels of management and staff

Conditions of Employment

Successful candidate must submit to a post-offer pre-employment physical examination, drug/alcohol screen, and background check. Some positions require Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) registration/clearance as well as ongoing alcohol and drug testing. In accordance with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for work that will be performed in the San Francisco area, qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records will be considered for employment.