Forensic Mechanical Engineer (PhD) – Seattle

Exponent; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Exponent is hiring a Mechanical Engineer in Seattle, WA to join its Mechanical Engineering Practice. You will work on forensic engineering, root-cause analysis, and evaluation of products and systems, supporting laboratory tests, data analysis, and field inspections.

The role requires a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, strong communication skills, and willingness to travel about 25%. A PE license and advanced credentials are encouraged as you grow with the team.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or closely related field.
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong practical and theoretical foundation in thermal or mechanical systems, including machine design, mechanics, thermal sciences, or fluid dynamics.
• Hands-on experience and interest in mechanical systems, vehicle systems, industrial equipment, fire investigation, and failure analysis.
• Experience with experimental techniques and data acquisition.
• Proficiency with data analysis software (Python, R, MATLAB, Tableau, Power BI) and CAD.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings for buildings or machinery.
• Willingness to travel ~25% and hold a valid US driver's license.
• Desire to obtain a PE license and additional credentials.

Responsibilities

• Apply mechanical engineering design, analysis, and practice to support forensic engineering and root cause analysis.
• Assist evaluation of products and systems against codes, standards, and requirements.
• Plan, design, and execute custom laboratory tests using traditional and novel methods.
• Review drawings, specs, and records to support reconstruction of events and evaluation issues.
• Collect, analyze, and visualize large data sets to support concise technical conclusions.
• Conduct field inspections and hands-on analyses of machinery, equipment, and systems.
• Travel to client sites and inspection locations as needed.
• Assist in technical investigations for litigation and dispute resolution.
• Prepare clear, well-supported reports and presentations for technical and non-technical audiences.

Skills

Verbal and written communication

Mechanical systems

Data analysis

CAD

Reading technical drawings

Education

Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Python

R

MATLAB

Tableau

Power BI

CAD

Job description

Exponent is hiring a Mechanical Engineer in Seattle, WA to join its Mechanical Engineering Practice. You will work on forensic engineering, root-cause analysis, and evaluation of products and systems, supporting laboratory tests, data analysis, and field inspections.

The role requires a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, strong communication skills, and willingness to travel about 25%. A PE license and advanced credentials are encouraged as you grow with the team.