Geologist

RTI International is an independent, scientific research institute dedicated to improving the human condition. Our vision is to address the world's most critical problems with technical and science-based solutions in pursuit of a better future. Clients rely on us to answer questions that demand an objective and multidisciplinary approach—one that integrates expertise across social, statistical, data, and laboratory sciences, engineering, and other technical disciplines to solve the world’s most challenging problems.We believe in the promise of science and technical solutions, and we push ourselves every day to deliver on that promise for the good of people, communities, and businesses in the US and around the world. If you are looking for the opportunity to make a real difference, RTI is the place for you.

Our laboratory supports a diverse portfolio of international proficiency testing (PT) programs serving both commercial and government clients. The group specializes in the preparation, analysis, and distribution of high-quality reference materials used to evaluate laboratory performance across a range of analytical disciplines. Our work is grounded in rigorous scientific methods and strict adherence to regulatory and quality standards, including ISO guidelines, EPA quality systems, and OECD Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs).

Team members collaborate in a dynamic laboratory environment that combines hands-on analytical work with logistical coordination, ensuring that PT materials are accurate, reliable, and delivered efficiently to participants worldwide.

In this role, you will contribute to both the analytical and operational aspects of proficiency testing programs. You will work with a variety of materials—including asbestos, manmade mineral fibers, and environmental samples—while supporting laboratory processes from sample preparation through quality control and distribution. This position requires attention to detail, adherence to established procedures, and the ability to perform both independent and team-based laboratory tasks.

Key responsibilities include:

• →Assisting in the selection, safe handling, and preparation of bulk building materials and raw asbestos minerals for PT sample production
• →Preparing and handling suspensions of asbestos and manmade mineral fibers, including aqueous deposition onto filters
• →Performing routine bench chemistry tasks such as gravimetric sample reduction, aliquoting, and turbidity and pH analysis
• →Conducting independent analyses using optical (light) microscopy in accordance with established analytical methods
• →Supporting the generation of vapor-phase chemical samples collected on sorbent media
• →Performing contamination checks and quality control sampling to verify the suitability of PT materials
• →Assisting with sample preparation for analysis using microscopic, X-ray, and other analytical techniques
• →Participating in PT sample packaging and shipment preparation for domestic and international program participants
• →Following and contributing to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), including drafting or revising documentation as needed
• →Recording laboratory observations, performing basic calculations, and compiling data for evaluation and review
• →Maintaining compliance with applicable regulatory and quality standards (e.g., ISO, EPA, OECD GLPs)
• →Assisting with laboratory inventory management, including ordering and stocking supplies and equipment
• →Supporting research activities and performing additional laboratory tasks as required

Job requirements are a combination of education and related experience. Judgment of an acceptable equivalent combination, on an individual basis, is the responsibility of RTI Management.

• BS in Geology, Geoscience, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience

Skills & Abilities:

The following skills and abilities are required to perform the essential duties of this role. Additional role-specific requirements may be outlined in a supplemental addendum.

• Basic knowledge of laboratory equipment
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel
• Knowledge of chemical hygiene and good laboratory work practices
• Experience safely handling asbestos minerals in a laboratory environment
• Ability to transition between tasks and projects in a dynamic work setting
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to follow instructions and established procedures
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to obtain appropriate security clearances, if required by contracts
• Ability to demonstrate proficiency with project-specific documentation
• Ability to maintain a strong customer focus, flexibility, attention to detail, and a positive attitude in day-to-day activities
• Knowledge of ISO quality standards and GLP regulations (desired but not required)
• Understanding of crystallography (desired but not required)

The physical and mental demands described here are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this role. These may include:

• Remaining in a stationary position for extended periods of time
• Performing repetitive tasks with a high level of attention to detail and quality
• Operating a computer and standard office equipment
• Effectively thinking, learning, and concentrating in a fast-paced environment
• Frequent communication with internal and external stakeholders
• Moving within and between office and laboratory environments
• Conducting laboratory safety inspections, as applicable
• Managing stress associated with multiple, concurrent, and tight deadlines
• Working more than 40 hours per week, as workload and deadlines require
• Maintaining consistent, reliable, and predictable attendance

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role, in accordance with RTI procedure 4.2.1.

For San Francisco, CA USA Job Postings Only: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Further information is available here.

RTI accepts applications to our job openings from candidates with criminal histories or conviction records in accordance with all applicable laws, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.

For Applicants in Massachusetts Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

The anticipated pay range for this role is listed below. Our pay ranges represent national averages and may vary by location as a geographic differential may be applied to some locations within the United States. RTI considers multiple factors when making an offer including, for example: established salary range, internal budget, business needs, and education and years of work experience possessed by the applicant. Further, salary is merely one element to our offer.

At RTI, we demonstrate our commitment to rewarding individual and team achievement through a total rewards package. This package includes (among other things) a competitive base salary, a generous paid time off policy, merit based annual increases, bonus opportunities and a robust recognition program. Other benefits include a competitive range of insurance plans (including health, dental, life, and short-term and long-term disability), access to a retirement savings program such as a 401(k) plan, paid parental leave for all parents, financial assistance with adoption expenses or infertility treatments, financial reimbursement for education and developmental opportunities, an employee assistance program, and numerous other offerings to support a healthy work-life balance.