Structural Engineering Associate (Ph.D.)

Exponent Inc. • New York, NY

4d • $117,000 - $145,000 • Onsite

About The Position

Exponent is seeking a Structural Engineer/Associate for its Civil & Structural Engineering Practice in New York, NY. The role supports complex forensic investigations and consulting engagements involving the design, construction, performance, deterioration, and failure of buildings, bridges, and other structural systems. Working with a team, the Associate conducts analytical and computer-based problem-solving, field investigations, and diagnostic surveys, and prepares technical documentation.

The position includes investigating and evaluating structural conditions and performance, analyzing causes of damage and failure, conducting engineering calculations and quantitative assessments, and developing tools and models to characterize structural risks. The Associate works with multidisciplinary professionals and communicates findings and recommendations to clients and other audiences. The role also supports client service and business development, and requires ongoing professional development and pursuit of professional licensure.

The position is based in Exponent’s New York office. Consultants generally work in person in the office unless traveling for client work or other business activities. The firm describes its work style and hours as flexible and agile, with autonomy to balance work and personal schedules. Compensation includes base salary, bi-weekly bonuses for high-intensity efforts, an annual bonus, and a 401(k) employer contribution of 7% of base salary. The stated base salary range is $117,000–$145,000 per year, depending on experience and capabilities.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Civil Engineering with a Structural Engineering focus, or a related field.
• P.E. or S.E. license, or ability to become licensed within four years of hire.
• Must be presently legally authorized to work in the United States; immigration sponsorship or processing is not available.
• Excellent creative problem-solving ability.
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and to lead and work in multidisciplinary teams.
• Ability to gather information from and convey technical conclusions to people in engineering, business, and industry.

Nice To Haves

• Applicants are encouraged to submit a CV with publications, including publications in review or pending; the CV is not restricted to one page.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field investigations and site inspections of buildings, infrastructure, and specialty structures to document conditions, evaluate structural performance, and identify potential contributors to damage, distress, or failure.
• Analyze and determine root causes of structural performance issues, construction defects, material degradation, and damage associated with extreme weather, earthquakes, flooding, explosions, fire, or long-term service conditions.
• Perform structural engineering calculations, quantitative analyses, and technical evaluations to assess load paths, capacity, durability, serviceability, code compliance, and risk to buildings and infrastructure.
• Develop and apply analytical tools, models, and engineering frameworks to characterize structural risks and evaluate failure mechanisms.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams of structural, geotechnical, mechanical, electrical, materials, fire protection, and corrosion professionals to evaluate complex engineering problems.
• Prepare reports, presentations, calculations, and exhibits that communicate engineering findings, conclusions, and recommendations to clients, insurers, attorneys, industry stakeholders, and technical or non-technical audiences.
• Gather, review, and synthesize project information, including drawings, specifications, construction records, inspection data, photographs, test results, codes, standards, and technical literature.
• Support client service and business development by contributing to proposals and developing trusted client relationships.
• Maintain and establish professional expertise through continued professional development, technical publications, conference participation, and professional licensure.

Benefits

• Competitive benefits, compensation, and recognition programs.
• Base salary, bi-weekly bonuses for high-intensity efforts, annual bonus, and a 401(k) employer contribution of 7% of base salary.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree