Mechanical Engineer (Ph.D.)

Exponent•Seattle, WA

3d•$140,000 - $160,000•Onsite

About The Position

Exponent is seeking a Mechanical Engineer for its Mechanical Engineering Practice in Seattle, WA. This role involves working as part of a team to consult on a wide variety of mechanical engineering issues, focusing on forensic engineering and root cause analysis of failures in mechanical, HVAC, plumbing, fire-protection, and other product or system failures. The position requires evaluating products and systems against codes and standards, planning and executing laboratory tests, and reviewing technical documents. It also involves conducting field inspections and analyses of various equipment and products, documenting findings, and traveling to client sites. The role includes supporting technical investigations in litigation and dispute resolution, preparing reports and presentations, and communicating effectively with clients and other experts.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field
Outstanding verbal and written communication skills
High level of mechanical aptitude and a curiosity for learning about new products, industries, and processes
Strong practical and theoretical foundation in thermal or mechanical systems, including formal coursework in machine design, mechanics, thermal sciences, and/or fluid dynamics
Hands-on experience, practical field experience, and a strong interest in the areas of mechanical systems, vehicle systems, industrial equipment, fire investigation, and failure analysis
Demonstrated experience with experimental techniques and equipment, including instrumentation and data acquisition
Proficiency with data analysis software (one or more of Python, R, MATLAB, Tableau, Power BI), CAD, and other technical and business software tools
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings for buildings or machinery
Ability to convey complex technical information to individuals not specialized in technical fields
Eagerness to work in a competitive environment in which work product and opinions may be challenged
Desire to obtain a professional engineering (PE) license and additional technical expertise and credentials
Valid US driver’s license and a willingness to travel (~25%)
Presently legally authorized to work in the United States; no immigration sponsorship or processing required

Nice To Haves

Basic photography skills are a bonus

Responsibilities

Applying the principles of mechanical engineering design, analysis, and practice to support forensic engineering and root cause analysis of mechanical, HVAC, plumbing, fire-protection, and other product or system failures
Assisting with the evaluation of products and systems against applicable codes, standards, manufacturer requirements, and accepted engineering practices
Planning, designing, and executing custom laboratory tests using a variety of traditional and novel methods
Reviewing drawings, specifications, maintenance records, and other technical documents to support reconstruction of events and evaluation of design, installation, operation, and maintenance issues
Collecting, analyzing, and visualizing large data sets to support concise technical conclusions
Conducting field inspections and hands-on engineering analyses of machinery, industrial equipment, HVAC, plumbing, fire scenes, and consumer products
Thoroughly documenting observations and findings during investigations of accidents, losses, and equipment malfunctions
Traveling to client sites and inspection locations (occasionally on short notice)
Supporting technical investigations in litigation, insurance, and other dispute-resolution matters
Contributing to the preparation of clear, well-supported, technically rigorous, and defensible written reports and presentations that withstand challenge by opposing experts, attorneys, insurers, contractors, or regulators
Presenting these communications to both technical and non-technical audiences
Communicating and working effectively with clients and experts in other engineering and scientific disciplines within Exponent