Associate level Mechanical Engineer (Ph.D.)

Exponent Inc. • Atlanta, GA

4d • Onsite

About The Position

Exponent is seeking an Associate‑level Mechanical Engineer to join our Mechanical Engineering Practice in Atlanta, GA. You will work as part of a collaborative consulting team applying fundamental mechanical engineering principles to help clients solve complex technical problems. This position offers hands‑on opportunities in design, testing, analysis, and communication, along with professional mentorship to strengthen your consulting, leadership, and project management skills.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field.
• Strong foundation in mechanical engineering and scientific first principles.
• Demonstrated experience in experimental design, testing, and data analysis.
• Proficiency with MATLAB, 3D CAD, Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex topics to audiences of varying technical backgrounds.
• Interest in professional growth and eventual project management responsibilities (staffing, budgeting, and client interaction).
• Eligibility and motivation to pursue Professional Engineer (P.E.) licensure.
• Presently legally authorized to work in the United States. No immigration sponsorship or processing required.

Nice To Haves

• Basic woodworking or machine shop experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct engineering analysis and manage specific projects across diverse applications, including consumer products, industrial equipment, HVAC, and plumbing systems.
• Design, build, and implement custom experimental fixtures and testing methods to address unique engineering challenges.
• Evaluate products and systems for compliance with applicable codes, regulations, and industry standards.
• Collect, analyze and visualize large data sets to support technical conclusions.
• Prepare clear, accurate technical reports and presentations for technical, legal, regulatory, and business audiences.
• Synthesize findings from complex sources into concise conclusions for clients.
• Market the Mechanical Engineering Practice’s technical capabilities through client engagement, presentations, and publications.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary colleagues across Biomechanics, Human Factors, and Civil & Structural Engineering Practices.
• Perform field inspections, testing, and hands‑on failure analyses outside of laboratory settings as needed.
• Travel to client sites and inspection locations (occasionally on short notice).

Benefits

• Mentorship from experienced consultants committed to your technical and professional growth.
• Opportunity to contribute to high‑impact projects in litigation, regulatory, and failure analysis contexts.
• A collaborative, multidisciplinary environment that values creativity, initiative, and diversity of thought.
• 401(k) employer contribution of 7% of base salary.
• Bi-weekly bonuses for high-intensity efforts.
• Annual bonus.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree