Thermal Sciences Associate (Ph.D.)

Exponent • Los Angeles, CA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Exponent is seeking a Chemical or Mechanical Engineer to join its Thermal Sciences Practice in Los Angeles, California. The Associate will work with a multidisciplinary team of Mechanical, Chemical, and Fire Protection Engineers to investigate technical engineering problems. The role applies chemical and mechanical engineering fundamentals to client challenges and combines technical analysis, field work, experimental design, project management, communication, and staff collaboration.

The position is office-based in Los Angeles, with in-person office work expected except when traveling for client work or other business activities. Consultants have flexibility to balance work and personal schedules while meeting client and project needs. Regional, out-of-state, and occasional international travel is required, at less than 15%.

Compensation includes a base salary, bi-weekly bonuses for high-intensity efforts, an annual bonus, and an employer 401(k) contribution of 7% of base salary. The stated base salary range is $140,000–$160,000 per year, depending on experience and capabilities.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Must be presently legally authorized to work in the United States; immigration sponsorship or processing is not available.
• Research background emphasizing transport phenomena, separations, process design, dynamics and control, chemical kinetics, and/or thermodynamics.
• Experience developing experimental designs, constructing experimental apparatus, instrumentation, data acquisition, and data analysis.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences.
• High self-motivation, demonstrated through activities such as presenting at technical conferences, publishing in peer-reviewed journals, or earning professional certifications.
• Intellectual curiosity and willingness to explore a broad range of problems and applications within and outside the area of specialization.
• Demonstrated leadership skills and ability to work in a multidisciplinary, collaborative environment.
• Willingness and ability to travel regionally, out of state, and occasionally internationally (less than 15%).
• Willingness and ability to work from the Los Angeles office.

Nice To Haves

• Previous industry experience, including co-op, work-study, or internship experience, is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform technical work applying chemical and mechanical engineering fundamentals.
• Conduct field work, including gathering and documenting data.
• Design and execute customized experimental programs.
• Review and synthesize documents, data, and other information.
• Communicate key findings to project teams and clients.
• Manage multidisciplinary project teams.
• Demonstrate commitment to quality management.
• Identify opportunities to expand current projects or create new projects.
• Continue professional development through publications and certifications.
• Mentor and collaborate with other staff.

Benefits

• Competitive benefits and 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.
• Programs and resources to support health and well-being.

What This Job Offers

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