Mechanical Engineer (Ph.D.)

Exponent•Chicago, IL

4d•$140,000 - $160,000•Onsite

About The Position

Exponent is seeking a Mechanical Engineer for its Mechanical Engineering Practice in Chicago, IL. This role involves working as part of a team to assist clients in solving complex technical problems, often under urgent conditions, requiring diverse, multi-disciplinary skills. The position emphasizes excellent technical analysis, project ownership, teamwork, and the ability to synthesize large amounts of information and technical results into effective reports and presentations. The engineer will evaluate the performance of mechanical assets across various industries using a "first principals" approach, informed by relevant regulations, codes, and standards. As performance improves, responsibilities will increase, including more client-facing interactions. The role requires applying principles of applied mechanics and creative problem-solving, demonstrating strong communication skills with clients and colleagues, performing field inspections, calculations, and analysis, and developing effective presentations and written reports. Project ownership and strong teamwork attributes are essential.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or similar fields with a focused thesis/coursework/project experience in applied mechanics (broadly including solid mechanics, fatigue and fracture, or potentially other areas including fluid mechanics, thermodynamics and heat transfer)
Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to synthesize and convey technical information to individuals in engineering, business, legal and related industries
Working knowledge of basic computational platforms and methods, such as finite element analysis (including Abaqus) and associated numerical analysis platforms such as MATLAB
Willing to work in new technical areas and continually develop new technical skills
Ability to work within project teams with a strong desire to contribute
Desire to develop strong technical and project managerial leadership skills
Willing to travel, sometimes on short notice
Desire to become a Licensed Professional Engineer (required)
Presently legally authorized to work in the United States. No immigration sponsorship or processing required.

Nice To Haves

Experience using and employing industry codes and standards is beneficial
Professional experience outside of the university setting is a plus

Responsibilities

Applying the principals of applied mechanics and creative problem solving to a wide variety of technical problems
Demonstrating strong communication skills in interactions with clients, engineers, managers, and non-technical staff
Performing field inspections, calculations, and analysis to address complex, real-world problems associated with a range of mechanical components
Developing effective presentations and written reports that synthesize findings and conclusions from engineering analyses
Demonstrating project ownership and the personal attributes needed to be an effective team member