Design and evaluate asphalt mixtures using Superpave, BMD, and performance-based methodologies.
Analyze laboratory and field-related data to identify performance trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement.
Translate research findings into technical guidance for internal teams and leadership.
Collaborate with Binder, Emulsion, and Field teams to ensure alignment between materials and mixture performance.
Collaboration & Internal Support
Position reports to the Mix Design & Field Services Technical Director to align research activities with operational and strategic goals.
Support internal stakeholders by providing expert technical input on mix performance, materials selection, and troubleshooting.
Interface with field services teams to incorporate field observations and performance data into research priorities.
Participate in internal technical reviews, strategy discussions, and Innovation Council initiatives.
Documentation, Knowledge Sharing & Development
Prepare high-quality technical reports, internal white papers, and presentations summarizing research findings.
Contribute to internal standards, guidance documents, and best practices related to mix design and performance.
Support technical publications and industry research initiatives as appropriate.
Mentor junior engineers and technical staff in mix design principles, performance testing, and research methodologies.
Laboratory & Safety Oversight
Ensure research activities follow established laboratory quality systems and EHS requirements.
Promote data integrity, repeatability, and technical rigor in all research efforts.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or related discipline (Master's or Ph.D. strongly preferred).
Extensive experience in asphalt mix design, performance testing, and applied research.
Demonstrated expertise in balanced mix design (BMD) concepts and performance-based testing methods.
Strong understanding of aggregate properties, asphalt binders, additives, RAP/RAS, and mixture interactions.
Proven ability to organize and execute multi-phase research projects.
Strong analytical skills with the ability to synthesize complex technical data into clear conclusions.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical audiences.
Demonstrated leadership potential consistent with a director-track role.
Highly collaborative, intellectually curious, and driven by continuous improvement.
Why Paragon?
At Paragon Technical Services, research is not academic - it directly influences the performance of pavements across the country. This role offers a rare opportunity to:
Lead meaningful, applied research that shapes real-world outcomes
Work closely with senior technical and business leadership
Help define future mix design and performance strategies
Grow into a broader technical leadership role within Ergon
Here, engineering judgment, scientific rigor, and practical impact come together.
