Artificial Intelligence (AI) Cybersecurity Scientist (Ph.D.)

Exponent Inc.; Menlo Park (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 154,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) employer contribution of 7%

Job summary

Exponent Inc. is seeking an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Cybersecurity Scientist in Menlo Park, CA. The role involves delivering AI consulting services, evaluating cybersecurity of AI systems, and designing frameworks for operational technology environments.

The ideal candidate holds a Ph.D. and has expertise in AI, cybersecurity, and modern engineering. The position offers competitive compensation and a collaborative work environment.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a relevant technical discipline.
• Experience with machine learning or AI systems.
• Expertise in AI assurance and cybersecurity.

Responsibilities

• Deliver technical AI consulting services.
• Evaluate AI systems for cybersecurity risks.
• Lead and collaborate on client engagement phases.

Skills

AI model development

Cybersecurity

Machine Learning

PhD in relevant field

Strong communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, AI, or related

Tools

Python

R

C++

Linux

Cloud platforms

Job description

Our Opportunity

We are currently seeking an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Cybersecurity Scientist for our Electrical Engineering & Computer Science Practice in Menlo Park or Oakland, CA or other U.S. locations.

In this role, you will work as part of a team to help clients:

• Securely and responsibly adopt artificial intelligence (AI) technologies
• Develop and implement assurance practices and frameworks for operational technology (OT) environments, including critical infrastructure
• Design, build, and evaluate AI-enabled systems that improve the cybersecurity posture of OT environments

You will be responsible for

• Delivering highly technical AI consulting services to help clients adopt AI solutions securely, responsibly, and effectively
• Developing approaches to evaluate, assure, and govern AI systems before deployment, with particular emphasis on cybersecurity
• Evaluating AI systems for cybersecurity risks, including adversarial manipulation, data poisoning, model extraction, prompt injection, insecure tool use, and unsafe autonomous behavior
• Applying cybersecurity and AI risk management frameworks such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, NIST AI Risk Management Framework, MITRE ATT&CK, MITRE ATLAS, ISA/IEC 62443, and relevant sector‑specific critical infrastructure guidance
• Leading efforts to design, develop, and evaluate AI models and systems that improve the cybersecurity posture of OT environments, beginning with threat detection and progressing toward more autonomous, agentic capabilities where appropriate
• Leading or collaborating on all phases of the client engagement lifecycle, including identifying client needs, framing and scoping business problems, developing project and sprint plans, building and evaluating AI solutions, and translating insights into actionable recommendations
• Advising clients on both technical and strategic business solutions, identifying new technology-driven opportunities, and helping clients plan scalable, sustainable, and efficient systems
• Supporting business development by proactively building relationships with clients, identifying new project opportunities, and helping craft and execute business and technical solutions, either independently or collaboratively with firm leadership

You will have the following skills and qualifications

• Ph.D. in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, or a related technical discipline
• Experience developing, evaluating, or deploying machine learning, deep learning, generative AI, or agentic AI systems
• Expertise spanning AI model development, AI assurance, cybersecurity, OT systems, and software development using modern engineering best practices
• Proficiency in at least two of the following: Python, R, C++, Linux, cloud platforms, containerization, MLOps tools, or cybersecurity analysis tools
• Working understanding of common Operational Technologies (OT) architectures, protocols, and constraints, including industrial control systems, supervisory control and data acquisition systems, programmable logic controllers, distributed control systems, and safety-critical environments
• Strong communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to translate complex technical, scientific, and business concepts for diverse audiences
• Business acumen and entrepreneurial mindset with a track record of identifying value for clients, framing business plans, and driving business development
• Strong project management and organizational skills; ability to thrive independently and as a collaborative team member in fast-paced, multidisciplinary settings
• Presently legally authorized to work in the United States; no immigration sponsorship or processing required

Work Environment

At Exponent, we have found that in‑person interactions deepen employee engagement and are crucial for development, for realizing the full potential of our talented and diverse teams, and for building a more inclusive workplace where all have a sense of belonging. In our offices, you can expect a supportive culture and a collaborative, dynamic, multi-disciplinary work environment. Our consultants engage in‑person in the office unless they are traveling for client work or other business activities.

We value the rich lives our colleagues enjoy outside of work and understand that work/life balance is critical to our employees and their well‑being. Consultants have the autonomy to balance their work and personal schedules so you can meet with clients, visit inspection sites, attend conferences, and make time for priorities outside of work, too. It is this flexible, agile work style and working hours that allow our teams to drive innovation and results in their own ways, while meeting the needs of clients.

Compensation

Our consultants are rewarded for their technical and business contributions and have an opportunity to plan for future success and career growth. Exponent's total compensation plan is consistent with its expectations of the quality and quantity of work performed and with the professional standards set by Exponent. At the Associate and Senior Associate level, total compensation includes base salary, bi‑weekly bonuses for high‑intensity efforts, annual bonus and 401(k) employer contribution of 7% of base salary.

The base salary range for this position is dependent on experience and capabilities which will be assessed during the interview process.

Salary Range

USD $140,000.00 - USD $154,000.00 /Yr.

Benefits you will enjoy

Access benefits information on our Life@Exponent page:

https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent

Job Locations

US-CA-Menlo Park

US-CA-Oakland

Equal Opportunity Employer

Exponent is a proud equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status.

If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, you may email us at [e-mail].