Manager, Materials Science (Ph.D.)

Exponent; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Exponent is seeking a talented and motivated Manager to join our Materials Science & Electrochemistry Practice in Phoenix, Arizona. The role requires a Ph.D. in Materials Science and a minimum of 5 years of consulting experience. Responsibilities include applying materials science expertise to support investigations, coordinating laboratory testing, and mentoring junior staff. Strong analytical and communication skills are essential for building client relationships and delivering impactful solutions. A collaborative mindset and project management experience are also required.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of consulting experience in materials science.
• Proven ability to build meaningful client relationships.
• Experience in product safety, construction defect claims, or intellectual property.

Responsibilities

• Support investigations involving material performance and failure.
• Coordinate laboratory testing and analyze results.
• Mentor junior staff and manage a small team.

Skills

Materials science expertise

Client relationship management

Analytical and problem-solving skills

Project management

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in Materials Science or related field

Tools

SEM

EDS

FTIR

XRD

EIS

Job description

We are seeking a talented and motivated Manager with consulting experience to join our Materials Science & Electrochemistry Practice.

Responsibilities

• Applying expertise in materials science to support investigations involving material performance, degradation, and failure across a range of industries.
• Building and cultivating strong client relationships.
• Contributing to the growth of the consulting business by identifying opportunities through project work, client engagement, and professional development activities.
• Coordinating laboratory testing and analysis using techniques such as SEM, EDS, FTIR, XRD, and electrochemical methods (e.g., EIS, cyclic voltammetry).
• Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to deliver scientifically rigorous and impactful solutions to complex technical challenges.
• Preparing high‑quality technical reports and presentations that clearly communicate findings to both technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Supporting project planning and execution.
• Participating in occasional travel for client meetings, site inspections, or lab work.
• Mentoring junior staff by providing technical guidance and fostering a collaborative, inclusive team environment.

Skills & Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Materials Science or a closely related field with a strong foundation in materials science.
• Minimum 5 years of consulting experience in the materials science space; expertise in glass or ceramics is a plus.
• Proven ability to build and nurture meaningful client relationships that drive project growth and expansion; an existing book of business and/or experience supporting clients with legal disputes is a plus.
• Experience in areas such as product safety/liaibility/recalls, construction defect claims, subrogation, failure to perform/equip, or intellectual property.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and draw meaningful conclusions.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey technical concepts to both technical and non‑technical audiences.
• A collaborative mindset and experience working in multidisciplinary teams; experience managing a small team of 2‑5 members.
• Project management experience, including coordinating tasks, timelines, and deliverables to ensure successful execution of technical projects.
• A commitment to professional growth.

EEO Statement

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.