Associate level Mechanical Engineer (Ph.D.)

Exponent • Atlanta, GA

2d • 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 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