DRAFT_Labor Category Descriptions.pdf

J.2 Labor Category Descriptions

STAFFING REQUIREMENTS and QUALIFICATIONS The Contractor’s project team must possess the necessary combination of qualifications and experience to provide superior-level support and products to the satisfaction of Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The following labor categories, skills/disciplines, and/or expertise are anticipated for the successful completion of all anticipated work under this contract.

To fulfill the requirement, sufficient knowledgeable staff is required. The skill sets are listed below:

Program Manager (PM) The PM shall be responsible for oversight of all work under this contract. The PM shall assure that the requirements of the contract are met and shall be responsible for all aspects of contract performance. The PM shall be responsible for determining staffing needs, providing and supervising personnel, and determining man-hour and hard cost requirements under this contract.

The PM shall serve as the primary point of contact for the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) and shall be responsible for responding to any technical directives and for the submission of progress reports. The PM shall be responsive to the government’s need for excellent communication and quality customer service. The PM shall also be responsible for the preparation of all reports, papers, and presentations produced under this contract. Ultimately, the PM appointed by the Contractor shall be responsible for all contractor personnel issues including ensuring appropriate staffing levels and effort, performance appraisals, time and attendance, disciplinary actions, and quality of work. Depending on the nature of the assigned work and staff experience, the PM's responsibilities for day-to-day management of on-site personnel may be delegated, subject to approval by the FHWA's COR. The PM shall have at least 10 years of experience managing support services, research, and engineering projects of the type and complexity as described herein.

Lab Manager (LM) The LM is directly responsible for the day to day operations of the laboratories, including the planning, conducting, and reporting of projects performed under the contract, management and supervision of staff, and coordination of the operations of the laboratory.

The LM requires frequent and clear communication and collaboration with other laboratories and programs, such as those for asphalt and concrete pavement materials, nondestructive evaluation (NDE) testing, safety and operations, and geotechnical; clear and open communication with federal and contract staff is necessary to facilitate progress and to address needs and/or challenges.

The LM may be a flexible position and can provide coverage of other employees when appropriate. This is a working management position, the LM must be capable of conducting hands-on work as needed to complete the mission of the respective laboratories. The responsibilities may be delegated, subject to approval by the FHWA’s COR.

Management in a research laboratory environment will constitute management experience and shall consist of items such as formal supervision of engineers and technicians, ability to troubleshoot problems and maintain equipment, maintaining an up-to-date inventory of the laboratory, and oversight of a safety program.

General Labor (GL)

The GL should have a high school diploma, or equivalent, with the ability to work with their hands and lift 50 pounds.

Level 1 (GL-1) shall be a starting level with no specific hands-on experience.

Level 2 (GL-2) builds off GL-1 with 2 years of progressive experience in a laboratory or industrial setting.

Level 3 (GL-3) builds off GL-2 with 2 additional years of progressive experience in a laboratory or industrial setting.

Document Processor (DP)

DPs assist FHWA staff or contractor staff in ensuring reports are generated in conformance to the FHWA Communication Reference Guide (CRG). Requirements of position include a mastery of the English language, especially through the written word, in addition to computer skills with a mastery of word processing and spreadsheets. Knowledge of graphics design is also desired.

These person(s) would be tasked with ensuring reports are written with a consistent voice, formatted to all CRG requirements, ensure graphs are consistently formatted (which may include manipulation of the source files in a spreadsheet), develop simple graphics to illustrate concepts, and write 508-compliant captions.

Administrative Assistant (AA)

The AA provides support for technical report preparation, meeting planning and preparing minutes, making travel arrangements, and so forth. Must be capable of generating 508-ready reports as well as adherence to the TFHRC Communication Reference Guide (CRG). Works under general supervision. Requires a HS diploma (or equivalent) and a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience.

Data Analyst (DA) The DA is responsible for acquiring, managing, analyzing, visualizing and interpreting the acquired data. The DA shall be experienced in data analysis software (e.g., MATLAB) and shall be experienced in statistical analysis, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. The DA shall also be familiar with different data visualization schemes, and 4D representation of data. The DA shall have proven working experience as a data analyst or business data analyst; shall have technical expertise regarding data models, database design development, data mining and segmentation techniques; shall have strong knowledge of and experience with reporting packages (Business Objects etc.), databases (SQL etc.), programming (XML, Javascript, or ETL frameworks); shall have knowledge of statistics and experience using statistical packages for analyzing datasets (Excel, SPSS, SAS etc.); shall have strong analytical skills with the ability to collect, organize, analyze, and disseminate significant amounts of information with attention to detail and accuracy; shall adept at queries, report writing and presenting findings. The DA requires a BS in Civil Engineering, Materials Science, Mathematics, Economics, Computer Science, Information Management or Statistics.

Support Analyst (SA)

The SA is strictly responsible for finite element modeling of pavements, research specimens, or conducting parametric simulation studies. This is primarily a supportive role for ARE or AIE positions and the projects they work on. SA levels are based on education and experience as follows:

Level 1 (SA-1) shall be a starting level for which the minimum requirements are a Master’s of Science degree in Civil, Mechanical, or Materials Engineering or Materials Science and possess an understanding of viscoelastic analysis methods for plane strain conditions. Experience must be demonstrated in successful modeling of viscoelastic pavement systems.

Level 2 (SA-2) builds upon that in Level 1 but possess two years’ experience in conducting finite element analysis of linear and nonlinear viscoelastic pavement systems.

Level 3 (SA-3) builds upon the experience of a Level 2 with two additional years of experience in conducting finite element analysis of pavement systems. Experience shall include demonstrated experience in one or more enhanced modeling techniques to include; coupled stress and heat analysis, polymer or additive reaction and diffusion into heterogeneous media, asphalt binder or mixture cracking models, and development of material failure models.

Subject Matter Experts (SME) Depending on the nature of the research being conducted and technical problems which may arise, it may be necessary for the Contractor to retain the services of one or more subject matter expert(s) who shall provide expert advice and services on designated studies for the Contractor.

Specific technical expertise shall be specified in the TOPR. SMEs, at any level, must have the demonstrated ability to complete work in a timely and effective manner. SMEs may be provided at five different levels as follows:

Level 1 (SME-1) shall be a starting level for a consultant demonstrating potential in the field.

Level 2 (SME-2) shall be a highly motivated, imaginative consultant in the field who has demonstrated four years of experience beyond that of formal education.

Level 3 (SME-3) shall be a recognized expert in the field who has peer-reviewed journal publications and at least ten years of experience beyond formal education.

Level 4 (SME-4) shall be a recognized national expert in the field who regularly provides input and has demonstrated at least fifteen years of experience beyond formal education.

Level 5 (SME-5) shall be a recognized world class expert in the field who has demonstrated at least twenty years of experience beyond formal education.

CONCRETE LABORATORY

A. Concrete Laboratory Manager (CON-LM)

Research-related experience shall be documented through demonstration of peer-reviewed publications on the topics of concrete materials, concrete pavements, or concrete structures.

Management experience shall include coordination of laboratory accreditation (for example, AASHTO re:source).

Level 1 (CON-LM-1) shall be a Master of Science of Doctorate degree holder with prior research experience as outlined above.

Level 2 (CON-LM-2) builds upon the requirements of Level 1 with the demonstration of a minimum of five years of management experience as outlined above.

B. Concrete Materials Research Engineer (CMRE)

The CMRE is directly responsible for the planning, conducting, and reporting of projects performed under the contract. The Contractor may provide CMREs at any of the five levels, though they will be judged based on demonstrated research-related experience in concrete materials used in the design, rating, and construction of bridges and pavements. Concrete materials related research experience includes constituent materials (aggregates, cements, supplementary cementitious materials, and admixtures), fresh and hardened property testing, models and software tools to predict in-service performance, knowledge and development of specifications and design codes (for example, AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications, AASHTO LRFD Bridge Construction Specifications, ASTM C39, ASTM C78, ASTM C150, ASTM C157, ASTM C469, ASTM C496, ASTM C512, ASTM C595, ASTM C1556, ASTM

C1585, ASTM C1856, AASHTO TP119, and AASHTO PP84), and ability to operate specialized laboratory equipment. CMREs at all levels shall have excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to write publication-ready research reports as well as participate and present during demonstration projects, seminars, committee meetings, and workshops. CMRE levels are based on education and demonstrated experience as follows:

Level 1 (CMRE-1) shall be a starting level for which the minimum requirements are a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil, Mechanical, Structural, Bridge Engineering, or related discipline and basic laboratory experience. Basic laboratory experience includes work as an undergraduate research assistant in a laboratory, intern experience in a laboratory, or equivalent thereof.

Level 2 (CMRE-2) shall be a higher level for which the requirements are completion of a related Masters of Science or Doctorate degree in Civil, Mechanical, Structural, Bridge Engineering, or related discipline with less than three years research experience beyond that to satisfy the degree requirements.

Level 3 (CMRE-3) builds upon the requirements of Level 2, though demonstration of at least three years of hands-on experience planning, conducting, and reporting (as demonstrated through peer-reviewed or federal document publications) on concrete materials engineering research of the type described herein.

Level 4 (CMRE-4) builds upon the requirements of Level 3, though demonstration of three additional years of hands-on experience planning, conducting, and reporting (as demonstrated through peer-reviewed or federal document publications) on concrete materials engineering research beyond that required for Level 3.

Level 5 (CMRE-5) builds upon the requirements of Level 4, though demonstration of four additional years of hands-on experience planning, conducting, and reporting (as demonstrated through peer-reviewed or federal document publications) on concrete materials engineering research beyond that required for Level 4. A Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Civil, Mechanical, Structural, Bridge Engineering, or related discipline is required.

C. Concrete Research Technician (CON-RT)

D. CON-RTs are a general laborer category to assist the FHWA and Contractor's CMREs in execution of research projects and to maintain cleanliness/order of the laboratory. Duties may include but not limited to making concrete formwork, mixing concrete, coring, preparing concrete specimens for testing purposes, maintaining general lab cleanliness, moving items with a forklift or crane, basic rigging, and installing instrumentation under the supervision of an CMRE. CON-RTs may be provided at five levels based on experience as follows:

Level 1 (CON-RT-1) is an entry-level position with no education requirements, though they must have a good level of mechanical aptitude, basic math skills, experience using hand tools, and function well in a professional research environment. CON-RT-1 requires an ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician – Grade I certification.

Level 2 (CON-RT-2) builds upon the experience of CON-RT-1 with an additional two years of demonstrated hands-on experience working in a research laboratory and an ACI Concrete Laboratory Testing Technician – Level 1 certification.

Level 3 (CON-RT-3) builds upon the experience of CON-RT-2 with an additional two years of demonstrated hands-on experience working in a research laboratory and an ACI Concrete Laboratory Testing Technician – Level 2 certification. The CONC-RT-3 level should have demonstrated familiarity with concrete materials testing systems (hydraulic, electrical, mechanical), conditioning systems (humidity and temperature control devices, curing tanks, vacuum pumps), and basic instrumentation systems for collecting data.

Level 4 (CON-RT-4) builds upon the experience of CON-RT-3 with an additional four years of demonstrated hands-on experience working in a research laboratory and a NRMCA Concrete Technologist: Level 2 certification. The CONC-RT-3 level should have demonstrated familiarity with concrete materials testing systems (hydraulic, electrical, mechanical), conditioning systems (humidity and temperature control devices, curing tanks, vacuum pumps), and basic instrumentation systems for collecting data.

Level 5 (CON-RT-5) builds upon the experience of CON-RT-4 with an additional four years of demonstrated hands-on experience working in a research laboratory and a NRMCA Concrete Technologist: Level 4 certification. The CONC-RT-3 level should have demonstrated mastery with concrete materials testing systems (hydraulic, electrical, mechanical), conditioning systems (humidity and temperature control devices, curing tanks, vacuum pumps), and instrumentation systems for collecting data. The CON-RT-5 should interface between laboratory and engineering staff, oversee testing integrity and experimental setups in the laboratory, and have a demonstrated history of providing creative solutions to advance standard test methods and procedures.

COATINGS AND CORROSION LABORATORY

CCL Research Engineer (CCL-RE) The CCL-REs shall manage and lead the assigned activities in the Coatings and Corrosion Laboratory. The CCL-RE shall also perform research activities that includes development of experimental plans, and performing research. Specific experience is required in the corrosion of steel and/or reinforced concrete as well as demonstrated proficiency in the use of materials/techniques used for the application of coatings for steel bridges. Current knowledge of corrosion prevention and mitigation techniques and coatings technology is required.

The ability to review and synthesize the literature on a variety of topics within the research focus areas is required. Duties may also include but not limited to operating and setting up and conducting tests or working with instrumentation systems either in the laboratory or at field sites.

The duties of a CCL-RE may also include also numerical modeling—to include pre- and post-processing—with the ability to simulate corrosion processes. CCL-RE at all levels shall have excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to write publication-ready research reports as well as participate and present during demonstration projects, seminars, webinars, committee meetings, and workshops.

RE levels are based on education and demonstrated experience as follows:

Level 1 (CCL-RE-1) shall be a starting level for which the minimum requirements are a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering, or a similar physical science, or have demonstrated equivalent experience with basic laboratory experience. Basic laboratory experience can include work as an undergraduate research assistant in a laboratory, intern experience in a laboratory, or equivalent thereof.

Level 2 (CCL-RE-2) shall be a higher experience level for the qualifications outlined in RE-1 though completion of a Master’s of Science degree in Civil Engineering with an emphasis on Corrosion Engineering, or related physical science, or through demonstration of at least two (2) years of hands-on experience with the ability to perform more advanced corrosion-related experiments. The CT-RE-2 shall demonstrate excellent data analysis capabilities.

Level 3 (CCL-RE-3) builds upon the requirements of Level 2, with either a PhD in Corrosion Engineering, or a related physical science, or through at least three (3) years of additional experience. The CCL-RE-3 shall have demonstrated hands-on experience planning, conducting, and reporting on corrosion research of the type described herein.

Level 4 (CCL-RE-4) builds upon the requirements of Level 3, through demonstration of three (3) additional years of hands-on experience planning, conducting, and reporting on corrosion research of the type described herein beyond that required for Level 3.

Level 5 (CCL-RE-5) must have a PhD in Corrosion Engineering and builds upon the requirements of Level 4 through demonstration of four (4) additional years of hands-on experience planning, conducting, and reporting on corrosion research of the type described herein beyond that required for Level 4.

CCL Research Technician (CCL-RT) CCL-RT will assist the CCL-RE and other researchers in carrying out the broad mission of CCL.

The CCL-RT shall perform routine maintenance for all the equipment, cleaning, material stocking and overall maintenance of the CCL and shall possess a working knowledge of chemical operations. The CCL-RT shall be responsible for setting up tests, installing instrumentation, conducting tests, and acquiring data in the laboratories. The CCL-RT shall coordinate research plans with engineering staff and take the lead to implement these plans with minimal supervision. The CCL-RT shall be able to perform standard Corrosion Laboratory tests per ASTM and AASHTO procedures and have knowledge of standard corrosion monitoring equipment. Duties may include but not limited to operating and setting up and conducting tests or working with instrumentation systems either in the laboratory or at field sites. CCL-RT levels are based on education and demonstrated experience as follows:

Level 1 (CCL-RT-1) shall be a starting level for which the minimum requirements are completion of at least two years of technical training in engineering technician skills, computer science, or electronics, and a good level of mechanical aptitude.

Level 2 (CCL-RT-2) shall be a more advanced level for which the requirements shall be two (2) years of experience in a laboratory and good familiarity with instrumentation.

The CCL-RT-2 shall provide demonstrated experience in advanced corrosion laboratory testing. This expertise includes knowledge of standard AASHTO and ASTM soil test methods and techniques, particularly large sample testing methods. The CCL-RT-2 must have knowledge and experience in setting up corrosion experiments. The ability to collect and present test results, review and synthesize the literature on a variety of topic within the scope is also required. The CCL-RT-2 shall also demonstrate data analysis capabilities and possess good communication skills.

Level 3 (CCL-RT-3) shall be a high level for which the requirements shall be completion of advanced training or certification programs, at least six (6) years of hands-on experience as a research technician, and a broad grasp of laboratory/field test procedures and instrumentation requirements.

ASPHALT BINDER AND MIXTURES LABORATORY

Asphalt Research Engineer (ARE) The ARE is directly responsible for the planning, conducting, and reporting of projects performed under the contract. The Contractor may provide AREs at any of the five levels, though will be judged based on demonstrated research-related experience in asphalt materials.

Research-related experience includes familiarity with digital-to-analog data acquisition, data management, analysis, and visualization, sensor selection and wiring (strain gauges, accelerometers, potentiometers, linear variable differential transducers, extensometers, and load cells), setup and operation of closed-loop servovalve controlled hydraulic systems, experiments conducted and setup using automated technology, rheometers, viscometers, spectrometers, ductilometers, or in solvent extraction and recovery testing, design of accelerated loading facility sections, and common asphalt property characterization tests prescribed by AASHTO and ASTM. AREs at all levels shall have excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to write publication-ready research reports as well as participate and present during demonstration projects, seminars, committee meetings, and workshops. ARE levels are based on education and demonstrated experience as follows:

Level 1 (ARE-1) shall be a starting level for which the minimum requirements are a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil, Mechanical, or Materials Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or equivalent major, and basic laboratory experience. Basic laboratory experience includes work as an undergraduate research assistant in a laboratory, intern experience in a laboratory, or equivalent thereof.

Level 2 (ARE-2) shall be a higher level for which the requirements are completion of a related Masters of Science or Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Civil, Mechanical, or Materials Engineering, Chemistry, or Materials Science (or equivalent major) with one year of research experience in asphalt materials beyond that to satisfy the degree requirements.

Level 3 (ARE-3) builds upon the requirements of Level 2, though demonstration of at least three years of hands-on experience planning, conducting, and reporting on asphalt materials research of the type described herein. A Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Civil, Mechanical, Materials Engineering, Chemistry, or Materials Science (or equivalent major) is required.

Level 4 (ARE-4) builds upon the requirements of Level 3, though demonstration of three additional years of hands-on experience planning, conducting, and reporting on asphalt materials research beyond that required for Level 3.

Level 5 (ARE-5) builds upon the requirements of Level 4, though demonstration of four additional years of hands-on experience planning, conducting, and reporting on asphalt materials research beyond that required for Level 4.

Asphalt Implementation Engineer (AIE) The AIE is directly responsible for the planning, conducting, and reporting of projects performed under the contract. The Contractor may provide AIEs at any of the five levels, though will be judged based on demonstrated implementation-related experience in asphalt materials.

Implementation-related experience includes field and demonstration project experience to assess and deploy innovative asphalt technologies, as well as familiarity with digital-to-analog data acquisition, data management, analysis, and visualization, sensor selection and wiring (strain gauges, accelerometers, potentiometers, linear variable differential transducers, extensometers, and load cells), setup and operation of closed-loop servovalve controlled hydraulic systems, experiments conducted and setup using automated technology, rheometers, viscometers, spectrometers, ductilometers, or in solvent extraction and recovery testing, design of accelerated loading facility sections, and common asphalt property characterization tests prescribed by AASHTO and ASTM. AIEs at all levels shall have excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to write publication-ready reports as well as participate and present during demonstration projects, seminars, committee meetings, and workshops. ARE levels are based on education and demonstrated experience as follows:

Level 1 (AIE-1) shall be a starting level for which the minimum requirements are a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil, Mechanical, or Materials Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or equivalent major, and basic laboratory experience. Basic laboratory experience includes work as an undergraduate research assistant in a laboratory, intern experience in a laboratory, or equivalent thereof.

Level 2 (AIE-2) shall be a higher level for which the requirements are completion of a related Masters of Science or Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Civil, Mechanical, or Materials Engineering, Chemistry, or Materials Science (or equivalent major) with one year of research experience in asphalt materials beyond that to satisfy the degree requirements.

Level 3 (AIE-3) builds upon the requirements of Level 2, though demonstration of at least three years of hands-on experience planning, conducting, and reporting on asphalt materials implementation activities of the type described herein.

Level 4 (AIE-4) builds upon the requirements of Level 3, though demonstration of three additional years of hands-on experience planning, conducting, and reporting on asphalt materials implementation activities beyond that required for Level 3.

Level 5 (AIE-5) builds upon the requirements of Level 4, though demonstration of four additional years of hands-on experience planning, conducting, and reporting on asphalt materials implementation activities beyond that required for Level 4. A Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Civil, Mechanical, or Materials Engineering, Chemistry, or Materials Science (or equivalent major) is preferred.

Expert Technician (ET) ETs assist the FHWA and Contractor's AREs or AIEs in execution of research projects and to maintain the state of good repair of the laboratory. Duties may include but not limited direction of research technicians (RTs), installing/calibrating/maintaining laboratory equipment, maintain/install software for specialized laboratory equipment, rigging, conduct complex movements of heavy items with overheads cranes, forklifts and/or other rigging equipment, conduct standardized materials tests, operation of servovalve hydraulic or pneumatic equipment, setup, operation, and troubleshooting of rheometers, spectrometers, viscometers, or ductilometers, setup and operation of asphalt solvent extraction and recovery equipment, erection of load frames, setting up sensors and data collection systems, and asphalt specimen preparation.

ETs shall possess an expert-level knowledge of all relevant AASHTO and ASTM standards. All ETs must present themselves and act professionally at all times. ET levels are based on education and experience as follows:

Level 1 (ET-1) shall be a starting level for which the minimum requirements are a bachelor’s degree or completion of at least two years of technical training in engineering, engineering technician skills, materials science, electronics, or mechatronics. A good level of mechanical aptitude, basic computer skills (including proficiency with MSWord and MS Excel, and ability to use specialized software for testing and instrumentation systems), and ability to comprehend construction plan drawings, asphalt mixture designs, asphalt binder certification and formulation disclosures, and asphalt specifications.

Level 2 (ET-2) builds upon the requirements of Level 1 along with three years of experience in a research laboratory, and familiarity with asphalt material testing systems (i.e., servohydraulic test frames, rheometers, viscometers, calorimeters, spectrometers, ductilometers) and basic instrumentation systems for collecting data.

Level 3 (ET-3) builds upon the requirements of Level 2 with an additional four years of hands-on experience as a research technician or expert technician. People working at this level should be able to work autonomously in execution of work plans written by AREs and run standardized material tests without direction from a ARE. ET-3 shall have a mastery of operation and maintenance of asphalt material testing systems (i.e., servohydraulic test frames, rheometers, viscometers, spectrometers, and/or ductilometers).

Level 4 (ET-4) builds upon Level 3 experience with an additional five years of experience specifically in an asphalt materials research laboratory.

Asphalt Research Technician (A-RT)

A-RTs are a general laborer category to assist the FHWA and Contractor's ET/ARE/AIEs in execution of research projects and to maintain cleanliness/order of the laboratory. Duties may include but not limited to maintain general lab cleanliness, moving items with a forklift or crane, basic rigging, installing instrumentation under the supervision of an ET/ARE/AIE, mixing asphalt, preparing asphalt binder specimens, conducting and setting up binder and mixture tests in accordance with AASHTO and ASTM standards, preparing asphalt mixture samples/specimens for testing purposes. A-RTs must be fluent in speaking and reading the English language. A-RTs may be provided at two levels based on experience as follows:

Level 1 (A-RT-1) is an entry-level position with no education requirements, though they must have a good level of mechanical aptitude, basic math skills, experience using hand tools, and function in a professional research environment with themselves dressing and acting appropriately for the research environment.

Level 2 (A-RT-2) builds upon the experience of A-RT-1 with an addition two years of demonstrated hands-on experience working in a research laboratory.

CHEMISTRY LABORATORY

Chemistry Laboratory Manager and Research Chemist (CLMRC) The LMRC shall demonstrate experience in managing the staff of a chemistry lab and leading a successful team. This includes the design and execution of factorial experiments related to highway construction materials, preferably asphalt and concrete. The LMRC should demonstrate ability to manage diverse tasks among the laboratory staff with adequate forward planning to maximize the output of the laboratory. The LMRC should demonstrate expert knowledge in the field of Alkali Silica Reaction (ASR) and aggregate chemistry. Demonstrated knowledge of existing ASR aggregate tests such as ASTM C1260 and ASTM C1293 and their shortcomings preferred. The LMRC should demonstrate familiarity with the use of Raman Spectroscopy to elucidate the structure of ASR gels. Knowledge of asphalt chemistry is preferred. Detailed knowledge and operation of standard laboratory spectrometers such as X-Ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy (XRF), X-Ray Diffraction Spectroscopy (XRD), Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Inductively Coupled Plasma Spectroscopy (ICP), Raman Spectroscopy and the use of a Scanning Electron Microscope is required. Must have demonstrated excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to write publication ready research reports as well as participate and present during demonstration projects, seminars, committee meetings and workshops. The LMRC shall possess a Masters or Doctorate degree in chemistry or related discipline, and at least three years’ relevant experience planning, conducting and reporting on chemistry research projects as described herein.

Concrete Research Chemist (CRC) The CRC is responsible for the design and execution of factorial experiments on the ASR reactivity of aggregates. Must have demonstrated experience using Raman Spectroscopy.

Knowledge of aggregate chemistry as it relates to ASR gel formation, familiarity with existing ASR test methods such as ASTMC1260 and ASTM C1293 and their shortcomings is preferred.

Must have demonstrated excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to write publication ready research reports as well as participate and present during demonstration projects, seminars, committee meetings and workshops. CRC levels are based on education and experience:

Level 1 (CRC-1) Completion of a Masters or Doctorate degree in chemistry or related discipline and at least three years’ experience of hands on planning conducting and reporting on chemistry research projects as described herein.

Level 2 (CRC-2) builds on the requirement of Level 1 through demonstration of five additional years’ experience of hands on planning, conducting, and reporting on chemistry research projects as described herein, and at least three years’ experience of the elucidation of the structure of ASR gels using Raman Spectroscopy and detailed knowledge of aggregate chemistry as it relates to ASR gel formation.

Level 3 (CRC-3) builds on the requirement of Level 2 through demonstration of five additional years’ experience of hands on planning, conducting, and reporting on chemistry research projects as described herein, and at least five additional years’ experience of the elucidation of the structure of ASR gels using Raman Spectroscopy and expert knowledge of aggregate chemistry as it relates to ASR gel formation.

Research Chemist (RC) The RC is responsible for the design and execution of factorial experiments relating to a wide variety of highway materials including aggregates, asphalt binders and cement, concrete and concrete additives such as fly ash, silica fume and the like. Experience with these materials is preferred. Familiarity with modern spectroscopic techniques such as FTIR, XRF, Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), ICP, and glow discharge spectrometry of metals is important. RC levels are based on education and experience as follows:

Level 1 (RC-1) Completion of a Masters or Doctorate degree in chemistry or related discipline and at least three years’ experience of hands on planning conducting and reporting on chemistry research projects as described herein.

Level 2 (RC-2) builds on the requirement of Level 1 through demonstration of 5 additional years’ experience of hands on planning, conducting, and reporting on chemistry research projects as described herein, and 3 year’s experience with noted highway materials.

Level 3 (RC-3) builds on the requirement of Level 2 through demonstration of 5 additional years’ experience of hands on planning conducting and reporting on chemistry research projects as described herein, and 5 years additional specific experience with noted highway materials.

Research Spectroscopy Chemist (RSC) The RSC shall have demonstrated knowledge of modern spectroscopic techniques such as XRF, XRD, ICP, FTIR and Raman spectroscopy. The ability to interpret spectra is a must. JRC levels are based on education and demonstrated experience as follows:

Level 1 (RSC-1) Completion of bachelor of science in chemistry and basic laboratory experience. Basic laboratory experience may include work as an undergraduate research assistant in a laboratory, intern experience in a laboratory, or equivalent thereof.

Level 2 (RSC-2) Completion of a masters or doctorate degree in chemistry with no research experience beyond that to satisfy the degree requirements.

Level 3 (RSC-3) builds on the requirement of Level 2 through demonstration of at least five years of laboratory experience with spectroscopic techniques as described herein.

Level 4 (RSC-4) builds on the requirement of Level 3 through demonstration of at least five additional years of laboratory experience with spectroscopic techniques as described herein.

Level 5 (RSC-5) builds on the requirement of Level 4 through demonstration of at least five additional years of laboratory experience with spectroscopic techniques as described herein.

Chemistry Laboratory Technician (CLT) Chemistry laboratory technicians perform a variety of tasks to support ongoing research activities, including but not limited to the following:

Maintaining the laboratory in a clean tidy and safe condition.

Preparing samples for spectroscopic analysis such as:

o Crushing and sieving aggregates.

o Preparing standard analytical solutions.

o Preparing dispersions of various additives such as styrene butadiene polymers

(SBS), polyphosphoric acid and liquid amine antistrip additives in asphalt binders o Grinding aggregates and preparing samples for the XRD spectrometer.

CLT levels are based on demonstrated experience as follows:

Level 1(CLT-1) Less than three years relevant experience Level 2(CLT-2) At least three years of relevant experience Level 3(CLT-3) At least ten years of relevant experience

AGGREGATES AND PETROGRAPHY LABORATORY

Concrete and Aggregate Petrographer (CAP) The CAP shall be an experienced geologist, mineralogist, and petrographer; a subject matter expert on the petrography of concrete, aggregates, and other construction materials, with experience and skills in polished-section and thin-section microscopy and an in depth understanding of related AASHTO and ASTM standards and methods for examination of highway materials and mixtures. (Preferably a member of the Subcommittee on Petrography of ASTM Committee C09 on Concrete and Concrete Aggregates.) The CAP should have education, training, and experience in geology, mineral identification, chemistry, research, and advanced methods of analysis of materials and mixtures.

Petrography Preparation Technician (PPT) The PPT shall be a laboratory technician with experience and skills in the preparation of polished-sections and thin-sections of materials for use in petrographic examination using microscopy and other methods. The technician should also have knowledge and experience of aggregate sampling and basic aggregate methods such as sieve analysis, sampling, and sample preparation. Experience should include drilling and cutting samples, lapping and polishing samples, and preparing geological thin-sections for petrography.

Highway Materials Engineer (HME) The HME shall be a qualified civil engineer with experience in pavement materials and construction. The engineer shall have a degree in civil engineering or equivalent, or a current PE license. The engineer should have experience with pavement design, drainage, and with soils and aggregates methods, proctors, and compaction control on the grade. In addition, the engineer should have experience with the design and quality control of concrete and asphalt mixtures.

Materials Testing Technician (MTT) The MTT shall be a certified civil engineering technician with experience in sampling, testing, and quality control of aggregates, concrete, asphalt and other paving materials. The technician should have experience with both highway field inspection procedures and laboratory testing of highway materials in accordance with AASHTO, ASTM, and/or State DOT methods. MTT levels are based on training and experience as follows:

Level 1 (MTT-1) shall have a level 1 highway or materials technician certification from a recognized accrediting authority or a State DOT covering basic inspection, sampling, and testing of construction materials. Also, the MTT-1 should have a high school degree or equivalent, and have appropriate construction materials experience and training.

Level 2 (MTT-2) shall have a level 2 highway or materials technician certification from a recognized accrediting authority or a State DOT covering materials inspection, sampling, and quality control, as well as testing of construction materials both in the field and in the laboratory. Also, the MTT-2 should have a high school degree or equivalent, and have appropriate construction materials experience and training.

Level 3 (MTT-3) shall have a level 3 highway, materials, or research technician qualification from a recognized authority or a State DOT covering materials inspection and quality control, as well as advanced laboratory testing. The MTT-3 shall also have a high school diploma or equivalent, appropriate construction materials experience and training, and experience in the proportioning and control of highway materials mixtures and experience in research of construction materials.

PAVEMENT TESTING FACILITY

Pavement Test Facility Laboratory Manager/Operations Engineer (PTF-LM)

The PTF-LM is directly responsible for the primary mission of the PTF, “the successful testing of pavement systems”, i.e. planning, conducting, and reporting pavement on pavement experiments performed at the facility. This includes management and supervision of the PTF staff and coordination of the day-to-day operations of the facility. Duties also include the management (e.g., organizing, storing, and analyzing) of data collected, the assurance of data integrity and information, and other related experimental information collected at the PTF as directed according to the protocols established. Research-related experience shall be documented through experience on topics related pavement engineering, design and/or construction of pavement systems, and/or the testing and evaluation of pavements. Management experience shall include coordination of PTF related experimental setups and operations and collection and storage of data.

Level 1 (PTF-LM-1) shall be a Master of Science or Engineering degree holder with prior research experience as outlined above, with at least one year of management experience in a laboratory environment.

Level 2 (PTF-LM-2) builds upon the requirements of Level 1 with a minimum of 1 year of progressive management experience as outlined above, plus demonstrated successful completion of many research experiments at the PTF with the proven ability to assess the condition of research test pavements and report results (as demonstrated through peer-reviewed or federal document publications) on information collected at the PTF.

The position also requires a solid understanding of the operation and maintenance of the PTMs, pavement instrumentation, data acquisition, and the use of NDE and other equipment used at the facility to access the condition of pavements.

Level 3 (PTF-LM-3) builds upon the requirements of Level 2 with the demonstration of a minimum of 5 years of successful operational experience at the PTF as outlined above.

Pavement Test Facility Research Engineer (PTF-RE) The PTF-RE will be directly responsible for the planning, conducting, and reporting of projects performed under the contractor or task order. The Contractor may provide a PTF-RE at any of the five levels, though they will be judged based on demonstrated research-related experience in the testing and analysis of pavement systems. Pavement testing related research experience includes testing of pavement structures, modeling of pavement structures, prediction of in-service performance, testing of pavement materials, including granular materials, and the NDE of pavement structures.

Level 1 (PTF-RE-1) shall be a starting level engineer for which the minimum requirements are a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil or Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline with basic laboratory experience. Basic laboratory experience includes work as an undergraduate research assistant in a laboratory, intern experience in a laboratory related to pavement engineering or materials engineering, or equivalent thereof.

Level 2 (PTF-RE-2) builds upon the requirements of Level 1, though demonstration of at least 3 years of progressive hands-on experience planning, conducting, and reporting (as demonstrated through peer-reviewed or federal document publications) on pavement engineering or geotechnical aspects of pavement research of the type described herein.

Level 2 is entry level for a candidate with the completion of a related Masters of Science or Masters of Engineering in Civil or Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline with no research experience beyond that to satisfy the degree requirements.

Level 3 (PTF-RE-3) builds upon the requirements of Level 2, though demonstration of at least 3 years of progressive hands-on experience planning, conducting, and reporting (as demonstrated through peer-reviewed or federal document publications) on pavement engineering or geotechnical aspects of pavements research of the type described herein.

Level 3 may be the entry level for a candidate with the completion of a related Doctorate of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Civil or Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline, with pavement testing related research experience beyond that to satisfy the degree requirements.

Level 4 (PTF-RE-4) builds upon the requirements of Level 3, though demonstration of 3 additional years of progressive hands-on experience planning, conducting, and reporting (as demonstrated through peer-reviewed or federal document publications) on pavement engineering or geotechnical aspects of pavement research beyond that required for Level 3.

Level 5 (PTF-RE-5) builds upon the requirements of Level 4, though demonstration of 4 additional years of progressive hands-on experience planning, conducting, and reporting (as demonstrated through peer-reviewed or federal document publications) on pavement engineering or geotechnical aspects of pavement research beyond that required for Level 4. A Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Civil (e.g. Pavements, Materials, Geotechnical) or Mechanical, Engineering, or related discipline is required.

Pavement Test Facility Operations Engineer (PTF-OE)

The principal function of this position is the engineering hands on day-to-day operation and repair of the Pavement Test Machines (PTMs) at the PTF. Duties also include assisting in the setup of instrumentation and data collection systems to evaluate the performance of pavement experiments. Knowledge in pavement/geotechnical instrumentation and data collection is supplemental to this position as part of the PTF mission. Minimum requirements for the PTF- OE are:

BS degree in mechanical or electrical engineering, or equivalent;

Knowledge and experience with mechanical/hydraulic electrical control systems;

Ability to set-up and operate specialized unique equipment for research;

Ability to operate, troubleshoot, and repair heavy specialized equipment;

Ability to operate heavy equipment (e.g., skid steer, forklift machinery, etc.);

Obtain basic rigging skills;

Self-motivated;

Good oral and written English communications skills; and Able to work in a team environment.

PTF-OE levels are based on experience as follows:

Level 1 (PTF-OE-1) shall be a starting level for which the minimum requirements are outlined above. A good level of mechanical aptitude, hands-on mechanical skills, basic computer skills (including proficiency with MS Word and MS Excel), and ability to draft operational manuals is required.

Level 2 (PTF-OE-2) builds upon the requirements of Level 1 with a minimum of 1 year of progressive experience as outlined above specific to the operation, trouble-shooting and maintenance of the PTMs, plus demonstrated successful completion of many research experiments at the PTF, including the ability to test pavements sections and accurately report information collected from the PTMs as well as the ability to install, collect, and analyze pavement instrumentation and testing devices.

Level 3 (PTF-OE-3) builds upon the requirements of the Level 2 position with an additional 3 years of progressive experience working independently without supervision in the execution of work plans as outlined above specific to the operation, troubleshooting and maintenance of the PTMs. This includes the demonstrated experience of successful completion of many research experiments at the PTF.

Level 4 (PTF-OE-4) builds upon Level 3 experience with an additional 3 years of progressive experience specific to the work at the PTF.

Level 5 (PTF-OE-5) builds upon Level 4 experience with an additional 5 years of

Pavement Test Facility Research Technician (PTF-RT) The principal function of this position is to set-up and operate the data collection and instrumentation systems at the PTF. This includes the installation of instrumentation (e.g., earth pressure cells, strain gauges, moisture sensors, displacement gauges, optic fiber sensors, etc.).

The work involves the collection of in situ test data (e.g., FWD, LWD, DCPT, etc.), pavement profiles, pavement crack mapping, and the use of other devices to access the pavement condition. Minimum requirements for the PTF-RT are:

An Associate’s Degree in electronics, mechanics or a related technology field;

Basic knowledge in the use of a wide range of sensors (mechanical, electrical, wireless);

Ability to report information;

Self-motivated;

Able to work in a team environment;

Good oral and written English communications skills;

Ability to operate heavy equipment (e.g., skid steer, forklift machinery, etc.); and Demonstrated experience with the fundamentals of electronic instrumentation, sensors

(mechanical, electrical, wireless), data acquisition systems, and information storage.

PTF-RT levels are based on experience as follows:

Level 1 (PTF-RT-1) shall be a starting level for which the minimum requirements are outlined above. A good level of electrical aptitude, basic computer skills (including proficiency with MSWord and MS Excel), and the ability to comprehend principles of how pavement/geotechnical sensors and data collection systems operate.

Level 2 (PTF-RT-2) builds upon the requirements of Level 1 with a minimum of 1 year of…