Polymer Scientist/Associate — Materials & Failure Analysis

Exponent; Bowie (MD); On-site; USD 140,000 - 162,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

401(k) matching 7%

Job summary

Exponent’s Polymers and Chemistry practice in Bowie, MD is hiring a Scientist/Associate (Ph.D.) to join our consulting staff. You will apply expertise in macromolecules and analytical techniques to projects across consumer products, construction, medical devices, energy, and pharma.

The role requires collaboration with cross‑practice scientists, occasional travel, and a drive to develop new business by securing projects and clients. A Ph.D. and legal US work status are required.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of macromolecules and characterization techniques.
• Experience with sampling techniques and statistical data analysis for FTIR, DSC, TGA, DMA, fractography, and microscopy.
• Experience designing, validating, and executing novel or non-standard testing.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; able to convey complex technical information to diverse audiences.
• Ability to work effectively within project teams and potential for leadership.
• Strong educational and publication credentials.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States; no immigration sponsorship required.

Responsibilities

• Inspect, analyze, and test polymeric materials to address specification and reliability across diverse applications.
• Conduct root‑cause analysis of failures in development, manufacturing, or end use across industries.
• Gather information and communicate technical conclusions to engineering, business, law, and industry.

Skills

Macromolecule knowledge

Analytical techniques

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Project leadership potential

Publication credentials

Education

Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering

Tools

HPLC

GC

FTIR

DSC

TGA

DMA

Microscopy

Job description

Exponent’s Polymers and Chemistry practice in Bowie, MD is hiring a Scientist/Associate (Ph.D.) to join our consulting staff. You will apply expertise in macromolecules and analytical techniques to projects across consumer products, construction, medical devices, energy, and pharma.

The role requires collaboration with cross‑practice scientists, occasional travel, and a drive to develop new business by securing projects and clients. A Ph.D. and legal US work status are required.