Vehicle Engineer (M.S./Ph.D.)

Exponent • Atlanta, GA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Exponent is seeking Vehicle Engineers for its Vehicle Engineering Practice at locations in Natick, Massachusetts; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Atlanta, Georgia; Phoenix, Arizona; Tampa, Florida; Farmington Hills, Michigan; and Austin, Texas. The role involves working on multidisciplinary consulting projects related to transportation and heavy-equipment accident analysis and reconstruction, mechanical-failure investigations, vehicle-structure research, and the design, performance, and safety of consumer and industrial products. Engineers apply technical knowledge, hands-on skills, and clear communication to address complex client problems while developing expertise in vehicle technologies, component performance, and transportation accident analysis.

The position includes supporting consulting engagements, conducting original research, managing projects, contributing to business development, and developing an independent consulting practice. Work includes field investigations and inspections, laboratory and field testing, engineering analyses, technical reporting, and presenting findings. Vehicle inspections may require travel within the United States, and occasional overtime may be needed to meet client and project requirements.

Exponent describes its offices as supportive, collaborative, dynamic, and multidisciplinary. Consultants work in person in the office except when traveling for client work or other business activities. The role offers autonomy and flexibility to balance work and personal schedules while meeting client needs.

Requirements

• Master’s degree (M.S. or M.Eng.) or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a closely related engineering field. For candidates whose graduate degree is in another engineering discipline, at least one degree must be in Mechanical Engineering.
• Presently legally authorized to work in the United States; immigration sponsorship or processing is not provided.
• Knowledge of or demonstrated interest in automotive systems, vehicle technology, and vehicle or mechanical-system performance.
• Hands-on experience in a garage, workshop, field, or laboratory environment involving ground vehicles and engineering instrumentation, inspection, testing, measurement, troubleshooting, repair, or disassembly.
• Strong foundation in statics, dynamics, mechanics, and mechanical design.
• Field and/or laboratory measurement experience and demonstrated aptitude for complex technical analysis and problem-solving.
• Clear technical writing skills, including scholarly or professional writing.
• Strong verbal communication and leadership skills, with the ability to synthesize and present technical information to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Professional Engineer (P.E.) license or willingness and ability to obtain licensure.
• Versatile, collaborative, and team-oriented, with dedication to quality and accuracy.

Nice To Haves

• For master’s-level candidates, at least one year of relevant experience is preferred; internship or co-op experience may be considered.
• Experience with collegiate racing teams such as Formula SAE, Baja SAE, EcoCar, Driverless, evGrand Prix, Formula Electric, Formula Hybrid, or other motorsports teams is highly desired.
• Experience with 3D CAD; proficiency with AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Rhino 3D is preferred.
• Technical programming skills.
• Experience preparing a thesis, dissertation, peer-reviewed paper, technical report, or conference presentation is strongly preferred.
• Applicants are encouraged to submit a CV with publications, including publications in review or pending.

Responsibilities

• Perform technical engineering analyses of accidents involving passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, public transportation, two-wheeled vehicles, pedestrians, roadway users, and heavy equipment.
• Conduct first-hand field investigations, including site, scene, vehicle, equipment, and component inspections.
• Plan, set up, and execute field and laboratory test programs, including full-scale crash, sled, and handling tests, and vehicle, component, and control-system evaluations.
• Apply vehicle- and component-level testing and engineering measurements to refine, validate, or demonstrate technical analyses.
• Analyze mechanical failures and evaluate the design, performance, and safety of consumer and industrial products and existing or emerging vehicle technologies.
• Identify research needs and conduct original research related to accident reconstruction, automotive technology, and vehicle-transportation issues.
• Manage projects from initiation through completion, communicate status and technical updates, and help ensure deadlines and quality expectations are met.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings to technical and non-technical audiences, including testimony when applicable.
• Conduct vehicle inspections, which may require travel within the United States.
• Develop specialized technical expertise and contribute to business development opportunities.
• Work occasional overtime to meet client and project requirements.

Benefits

• Competitive benefits and compensation and recognition programs.
• Health and well-being programs and resources.
• At Associate and Senior Associate level, total 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.
• Flexible, agile work style and working hours that support balancing work and personal schedules.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level