Mechanical Engineer (Ph.D.)

About Exponent

Exponent is the only premium engineering and scientific consulting firm with the depth and breadth of expertise to solve our clients’ most profoundly unique, unprecedented, and urgent challenges. Our vision is to engage multidisciplinary teams of science, engineering, and regulatory experts to empower clients with solutions that create a safer, healthier, more sustainable world. For over five decades, we've connected the lessons of past failures with tomorrow's solutions to advise clients as they innovate technologically complex products and processes, ensure the safety and health of their users, and address the challenges of sustainability.

Join our team of experts with degrees from top programs at over 500 universities and extensive experience spanning a variety of industries. At Exponent, you’ll contribute to the diverse pool of ideas, talents, backgrounds, and experiences that drives our collaborative teamwork and breakthrough insights. We help you grow your career through mentoring, sponsorship, and a culture of learning.

Key statistics: 950+ Consultants, 640+ Ph.D.s, 90+ Disciplines, 30+ Offices globally.

About the Role

We are currently seeking a Mechanical Engineer for our Mechanical Engineering Practice in our Menlo Park, CA office. In this role, you will work as part of multiple teams consulting on a wide variety of mechanical engineering issues including solid mechanics and mechanical design, with a focus on machine design and manufacturing.

You will grow in key aspects of consulting, including technical expertise and effective spoken and written communications, to develop a consulting practice serving clients both within and outside the firm.

Responsibilities

• Communicating effectively with other engineers and technicians, managers, clients, and administrative reports
• Conducting hands-on failure analysis
• Planning and executing laboratory tests
• Performing calculations and analysis
• Performing field inspections
• Assisting other engineering practice groups within Exponent on an as-needed basis
• Supporting senior staff in project development and marketing

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent with focused thesis, coursework, and teaching experience in solid mechanics and machine design, utilizing both experimental methods and computational analysis
• Strong mechanical and strength of materials intuition
• Demonstrated hands-on fabrication and laboratory skills
• Experience working in a manufacturing setting is a plus
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work within project teams with a strong desire to contribute
• Potential for technical and project managerial leadership
• Ability to convey technical information to individuals in engineering, business, legal, and related industries
• Presently legally authorized to work in the United States (no immigration sponsorship or processing required)

Applicants are encouraged to submit a CV (Curriculum Vitae) with publications (feel free to include publications that are in review or pending).

Work Environment

At Exponent, in-person interactions deepen employee engagement and are crucial for development, realizing the full potential of our talented and diverse teams, and building a more inclusive workplace where all have a sense of belonging. Our consultants engage in-person in the office unless traveling for client work or other business activities.

We value work/life balance and understand its critical role in employee well-being. Consultants have the autonomy to balance work and personal schedules to meet client needs, visit inspection sites, attend conferences, and prioritize life outside of work. This flexible, agile work style drives innovation and results.

Pay

The base salary range for this position is USD $140,000.00 - USD $160,000.00 per year, dependent on experience and capabilities assessed during the interview process. At the Associate and Senior Associate level, total compensation includes base salary, bi-weekly bonuses for high-intensity efforts, annual bonus, and a 401(k) employer contribution of 7% of base salary.

Benefits

Exponent offers a variety of programs and resources to support health and well-being. Competitive benefits, compensation, and recognition programs empower our staff to do work that makes a difference. For more details, visit our Life@Exponent page.