Materials Science Manager (PhD) — Client-Focused Leader

Exponent; Bowie (MD); On-site; USD 165,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

Exponent seeks a talented Manager with consulting experience to join our Materials Science & Electrochemistry Practice. Open across U.S. offices, you will contribute to teams addressing material performance, degradation, and failure across multiple industries. You will support investigations, analyze data, and deliver client-focused solutions.

This role offers opportunities to mentor staff, contribute to business growth, and collaborate with senior experts to advance scientific rigor and impact.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Materials Science or closely related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience consulting in the materials science space.
• Proven ability to build and nurture meaningful client relationships.
• Experience in product safety/liability/recalls; construction defect claims; subrogation; failure to perform/equip; or IP.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience managing a small team of 2–5 team members.
• Project management experience.
• Commitment to professional growth.

Responsibilities

• Apply expertise in Materials Science to support investigations across various industries.
• Build and cultivate strong client relationships to drive project growth.
• Identify opportunities through project work and client engagement.
• Coordinate laboratory testing and analysis using SEM, EDS, FTIR, XRD, and electrochemical methods.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver robust solutions.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports and presentations for technical and non-technical audiences.
• Support project planning and execution; travel as needed.
• Mentor junior staff to foster a collaborative team environment.

Skills

Client relationships

Analytical skills

Communication

Team leadership

Multidisciplinary teamwork

Project management

Growth mindset

Education

Ph.D. in Materials Science

Tools

SEM

EDS

FTIR

XRD

EIS

Cyclic voltammetry

Job description

Exponent seeks a talented Manager with consulting experience to join our Materials Science & Electrochemistry Practice. Open across U.S. offices, you will contribute to teams addressing material performance, degradation, and failure across multiple industries. You will support investigations, analyze data, and deliver client-focused solutions.

This role offers opportunities to mentor staff, contribute to business growth, and collaborate with senior experts to advance scientific rigor and impact.