Asphalt Research Engineer

High Performance Technologies, Inc. (HPTech) is an infrastructure-focused firm specializing in practice, research, policy, and technology transfer. Established in 2003, HPTech supports the U.S. federal government at research facilities and project sites nationwide. Our distinct capability lies in integrating physical sciences, social sciences, engineering, planning, and policy to deliver innovative, data-driven infrastructure solutions.

HPTech is seeking a highly qualified Asphalt Research Engineer (ARE) to lead and execute advanced research initiatives within a state-of-the-art Asphalt Binder and Mixtures Laboratory (ABML) at a federal research facility in McLean, Virginia. The ARE will be responsible for designing and conducting rigorous experimental programs focused on the characterization and performance evaluation of paving materials. The ABML performs comprehensive evaluation of critical material properties, including strength, stiffness, ductility, and rheological behavior, and plays a central role in validating and advancing innovative test methods and performance-based specifications. Research conducted within this laboratory directly supports the development and refinement of material standards and specifications that enhance pavement safety, durability, service life, construction quality, and overall life-cycle cost-effectiveness.

Key Responsibilities
The Asphalt Research Engineer will:

Design, plan, and execute laboratory research on asphalt binders and mixtures.
Develop and implement experimental test setups using advanced instrumentation and automated systems.
Conduct data acquisition, management, analysis, and visualization.
Support development and validation of innovative material testing methodologies.
Contribute to the advancement of performance-related specifications.
Present research findings at demonstration projects, seminars, webinars, scientific meetings, and workshops.
Prepare technical reports, journal and magazine articles, and conference papers.

Technical Expertise Required
Candidates should demonstrate diversified research experience in asphalt binder and mixture testing, including familiarity with:

Digital-to-analog data acquisition systems and data management platforms.
Sensor selection, wiring, and instrumentation (e.g., strain gauges, accelerometers, potentiometers, LVDTs, extensometers, load cells).
Closed-loop servovalve-controlled hydraulic systems.
Automated experimental setups and laboratory automation technologies.
Rheometers, viscometers, spectrometers, ductilometers, and solvent extraction and recovery testing.
Designing and performing testing at accelerated loading facilities.
Asphalt property characterization tests in accordance with AASHTO and ASTM standards.
Statistical analysis and experimental design methodologies.
Advanced software for flexible pavement design, analysis, and modeling.

Qualifications

Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering/Science, Chemistry, or a closely related discipline.
Minimum of five (5) years of research experience related to asphalt binders and mixtures.
Demonstrated expertise in aggregate and asphalt technology.
In-depth knowledge of binder and mixture performance-related specifications.
Proven record of developing experimental designs and performing statistical analyses.
Documented publication record, including peer-reviewed journal articles, research reports, and conference presentations.
Strong verbal, written, and presentation skills.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively in collaborative research environments.
Professional Engineer (P.E.) registration highly desirable.

This position will be based in McLean, Virginia.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

For consideration, candidates should submit their online application no later than February 28, 2026.

Employment Application