Manager, Materials Science (Ph.D.)

Exponent•Phoenix, AZ

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Exponent is seeking a talented and motivated Manager to join their Materials Science & Electrochemistry team in Phoenix, AZ. This role involves contributing to multidisciplinary teams that address complex challenges related to battery failure analysis, safety hazard assessments, and electrochemical performance studies across various industries such as energy storage, transportation, consumer electronics, and medical devices. The position requires supporting technical investigations, laboratory testing, data analysis, and delivering client-focused solutions. It's an opportunity for a technically strong scientist or engineer to pursue a career in consulting. As a Manager, responsibilities include building client relationships, supporting business development, leading small teams, and growing a consulting practice, while collaborating with senior staff and subject matter experts.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Materials Science, Materials Science & Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field.
Minimum 5 years of post-graduate experience in materials science.
Hands-on experience with battery research and development (including electrochemistry and lithium-ion or other battery technologies) is highly desirable.
Prior consulting experience required.
Specialized knowledge of electrochemistry, battery chemistry, cell design, assembly, and characterization; experience in failure analysis preferred.
Demonstrated strong drive and commitment to professional work product and growth.
Proficiency in materials characterization techniques such as CT scanning, SEM, and electrochemical methods (e.g., EIS, cyclic voltammetry), with strong analytical and problem-solving skills to interpret complex data.
Experience managing small teams and coordinating technical projects, timelines, and deliverables.
Proven track record in business development, client engagement, or securing funding/grants.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills with ability to convey technical concepts to diverse audiences, including engineering, business, and legal stakeholders.
Entrepreneurial mindset with ability to attract new and repeat clients or funding.

Responsibilities

Applying expertise in Materials Science to support investigations involving battery failure analysis, safety assessments and performance evaluations across industries.
Leveraging experience in battery R&D to solve real-world electrochemistry and materials challenges.
Designing and coordinating experiments, interpreting data, preparing high-quality technical reports and presenting findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Coordinating laboratory testing and analysis using techniques such as battery pack teardowns, CT scanning, SEM, EDS, FTIR, and electrochemical methods.
Supporting project planning and execution to ensure timely and successful outcomes.
Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to deliver scientifically rigorous solutions.
Mentoring junior staff by providing guidance and fostering a collaborative environment.
Participating in occasional travel for client meetings, site inspections, or lab work.