Chemist/Polymer Scientist (Ph.D.)

Exponent; Menlo Park (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 162,000; Full time

Job summary

Exponent is seeking a Chemist/Polymer Scientist to work in Menlo Park, CA. This role involves inspecting and analyzing polymeric materials across various industries and performing investigations on materials failures.

The ideal candidate should possess a Ph.D. in Chemistry, Polymer Science, or a related field, with strong experience in polymer characterization techniques. The salary range for this position is $140,000 to $162,000 annually.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a relevant field is required.
• Experience with polymer/chemical characterization techniques.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Inspect and analyze polymeric materials for specifications.
• Perform root-cause investigations on failing materials.
• Communicate technical conclusions to stakeholders.

Skills

Polymer characterization techniques (FTIR, GC-MS, etc.)

Knowledge of ISO medical device standards

Strong communication skills

Teamwork orientation

Education

Ph.D. in Chemistry, Polymer Science, or Materials Science

Job description

Chemist/Polymer Scientist (Ph.D.)

Location: Menlo Park, CA

ID: 2026-2448

Salary: $140,000.00 - $162,000.00 /Yr.

Responsibilities

• Inspect, test, and analyze various polymeric materials to assess their specifications and reliability across multiple industries.
• Perform root‑cause investigations on failing or under‑performing materials and components by scientifically examining development, manufacturing, and end‑use environments for construction, medical device, consumer electronics, and pharmaceutical applications.
• Analyze information and convey technical conclusions to engineering, business, legal, and industry stakeholders, and communicate testing rationale in the context of product development, defect claims, and intellectual property disputes.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Well‑developed understanding of small‑molecule, polymer, and materials characterization.
• Knowledge of polymer bulk physical properties and/or polymer processing (preferred).
• Strong background and hands‑on experience in polymer/chemical characterization techniques such as FTIR, GC‑MS, LC‑MS, GPC, NMR, ICP‑MS, ICP‑OES, DSC, TGA, and DMA.
• Knowledge of medical device testing and manufacturing standards such as ISO 10993, ISO 13485, ISO 14971.
• Experience designing, assembling, and executing novel or non‑standard testing.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to convey complex technical information to engineering, business, legal, and related audiences.
• Strong educational and publication credentials.
• Strong teamwork orientation with potential for technical and project‑managerial leadership.
• Must reside in or be willing to relocate to Menlo Park, CA and be enthusiastic about regularly working in the office.
• Presently legally authorized to work in the United States. No immigration sponsorship or processing required.

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.