Mechanical Engineer (PhD) - Field Analysis & Client Impact

Exponent; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 140,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Exponent is seeking a Mechanical Engineer in Chicago, IL to join our Mechanical Engineering Practice. You will apply first-principles analysis to evaluate mechanical assets across industries, delivering clear reports and presentations.

The role emphasizes technical rigor, client interaction, and teamwork in a multi-disciplinary environment. You will grow through challenging projects, mentoring, and ongoing learning while contributing to a culture of innovation and excellence.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering with focused applied mechanics coursework or project experience.
• Excellent verbal and written communication for engineering, business, legal, and related industries.
• Working knowledge of finite element analysis and MATLAB.

Responsibilities

• Apply applied mechanics and creative problem solving to technical problems.
• Demonstrate strong communication with clients, engineers, managers, and non-technical staff.
• Perform field inspections, calculations, and analysis on mechanical components.
• Develop presentations and reports that synthesize engineering findings.

Skills

Applied mechanics

Finite element analysis

Communication skills

Project ownership

Team collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Abaqus

MATLAB

Job description

Exponent is seeking a Mechanical Engineer in Chicago, IL to join our Mechanical Engineering Practice. You will apply first-principles analysis to evaluate mechanical assets across industries, delivering clear reports and presentations.

The role emphasizes technical rigor, client interaction, and teamwork in a multi-disciplinary environment. You will grow through challenging projects, mentoring, and ongoing learning while contributing to a culture of innovation and excellence.