Mechanical Engineer (Ph.D.)

Exponent Inc.•Chicago, IL
•$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 that are often urgent and require 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 industry regulations, codes, and standards. Opportunities for increased responsibilities and client-facing interactions will be available based on performance.

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

Benefits

  • 401(k) employer contribution of 7% of base salary
  • Bi-weekly bonuses for high-intensity efforts
  • Annual bonus
© 2026 Teal Labs, Inc
Privacy PolicyTerms of Service