Principal Human Factors Scientist — Lead Impactful Studies

Exponent; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 233,000 - 295,000; Full time

Job summary

Exponent seeks a Human Factors Principal Scientist (Ph.D. or M.A./M.S.) to lead complex investigations across multiple locations, including Phoenix, AZ.

The role emphasizes technical leadership, client service, and thought leadership in human factors, safety, and user interaction with products and systems. The position requires extensive HF expertise, strong publication history, and experience managing large programs.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a HF-related field or MA/MS with extensive HF experience.
• 12+ years of consulting, industry, research, or applied HF experience.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States; no immigration sponsorship required.
• Strong publication record in relevant fields.
• Experience managing large, complex projects.
• Proven client relationships and business development capabilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Expert witness experience.
• Experience across industries involving product liability, regulatory investigations, or safety.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership in multidisciplinary human factors investigations and studies.
• Lead client engagements from scoping to final deliverables and mentor staff.
• Publish thought leadership and represent the firm in industry forums.
• Develop business opportunities within Human Factors and adjacent areas; manage client relationships.
• Contribute to litigation support through expert analyses and reports.

Skills

Human performance

Human-machine interaction

Product safety

Transportation HF

Occupational safety

Medical devices HF

Accident investigation

Publications

Project management

Client relations

Communication

Expert witness

Consulting experience

Regulatory investigations

Education

PhD in HF

MA/MS with HF experience

Job description

Exponent seeks a Human Factors Principal Scientist (Ph.D. or M.A./M.S.) to lead complex investigations across multiple locations, including Phoenix, AZ.

The role emphasizes technical leadership, client service, and thought leadership in human factors, safety, and user interaction with products and systems. The position requires extensive HF expertise, strong publication history, and experience managing large programs.