Polymer Scientist/Associate — Materials Expert

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

Job summary

Exponent, a premier engineering and scientific consulting firm, seeks a Polymer Scientist for its Polymers & Chemistry practice in Menlo Park, CA. You will join an interdisciplinary team delivering diverse projects across pharma, medical devices, consumer products, construction, and automotive.

The role emphasizes polymer/material characterization and developing client-ready solutions. Candidates should hold a Ph.D.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Well-developed understanding of polymer and materials characterization.
• Knowledge of polymer bulk physical properties, structure-property relations, mechanics, polymer fracture analysis, and/or polymer processing preferred.
• Strong background and hands-on experience in polymer/chemical characterization techniques.

Responsibilities

• Inspecting, testing and analyzing polymeric materials to assess specifications and reliability across industries.
• Performing root cause investigations on failing materials by examining development, manufacturing, or end-use environments.
• Communicating technical conclusions to engineers, business, legal, and clients; explaining testing rationale in product development and IP disputes.

Skills

Polymer characterization

Materials science

Strong communication

Teamwork

Education

PhD in Materials Science

Tools

FTIR

DSC

TGA

DMA

GPC

SEM

Job description

Exponent, a premier engineering and scientific consulting firm, seeks a Polymer Scientist for its Polymers & Chemistry practice in Menlo Park, CA. You will join an interdisciplinary team delivering diverse projects across pharma, medical devices, consumer products, construction, and automotive.

The role emphasizes polymer/material characterization and developing client-ready solutions. Candidates should hold a Ph.D.