Chemist - Building Materials

The Chemist – Building Materials is responsible for conducting physical and chemical testing of cement, aggregates, concrete, fly ash, GGBS, silica fume, admixtures, construction chemicals, and other building materials in accordance with IS, ASTM, BS, and NABL requirements. The role includes sample preparation, testing, result validation, equipment maintenance, quality control, and documentation to ensure accurate and timely reporting.

• Key ResponsibilitiesSample ManagementReceive and register laboratory samples.
• Verify sample identification and testing requirements.
• Prepare samples as per applicable standards.
• Ensure proper storage and traceability of samples.

Laboratory TestingConduct laboratory testing on:

• Cement
• Concrete
• Fine & Coarse Aggregates
• Fly Ash
• GGBS
• Silica Fume
• Bentonite
• Construction Chemicals
• AAC Blocks
• Pavers
• Tiles
• Bricks
• Masonry Units
• Water used for Construction

Perform tests including:

• Fineness
• Standard Consistency
• Initial & Final Setting Time
• Soundness
• Compressive Strength
• Specific Gravity
• Moisture Content
• Water Absorption
• Sieve Analysis
• Chemical Composition
• Chloride Content
• Sulphate Content
• Loss on Ignition
• Insoluble Residue
• Pozzolanic Activity
• Alkali Content
• Other tests as per IS/ASTM specifications.

Instrument OperationOperate and maintain laboratory equipment including:

• Double Beam UV-Visible Spectrophotometer
• Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS)
• Spark OES (where applicable)
• Analytical Balance
• Muffle Furnace
• Hot Air Oven
• Compression Testing Machines
• Cement Testing Equipment
• pH Meter
• Conductivity Meter
• Laboratory Glassware
• Quality AssurancePerform testing as per NABL ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.
• Follow approved SOPs and work instructions.
• Ensure internal quality control checks.
• Participate in proficiency testing (PT) and inter-laboratory comparison (ILC).
• Maintain testing records and worksheets.
• DocumentationPrepare raw data sheets.
• Review calculations.
• Enter results into LIMS.
• Prepare draft test reports.
• Maintain calibration and maintenance records.
• Ensure proper record retention.
• Equipment MaintenanceDaily verification of laboratory equipment.
• Calibration checks.
• Preventive maintenance.
• Maintain equipment logbooks.
• Report equipment malfunction immediately.
• SafetyFollow laboratory safety procedures.
• Proper handling of chemicals and hazardous materials.
• Maintain housekeeping.
• Use PPE at all times.
• Dispose laboratory waste safely.