Principal Scientist — Polymers & Chemistry Leader

Exponent; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 225,000 - 275,000; Full time

Job summary

Exponent is seeking a Principal Scientist in the Polymers & Chemistry Practice to lead interdisciplinary teams addressing polymer materials across life sciences, consumer products, infrastructure, and automotive sectors. The role requires 10+ years in polymer science/consulting, a robust client book, and proven revenue generation.

The candidate will guide project execution, mentor staff, and communicate complex science to diverse audiences while expanding client partnerships and industry thought

Qualifications

• PhD in Polymer Science or Materials Science with a focus on polymer structure-property-end use performance relationships.
• Minimum of 10 years of consulting experience in the polymer science or materials science space.
• Proven track record of business generation and attracting new and repeat clients or funding.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret data, identify trends, and make informed recommendations in your scientific field.
• Outstanding reputation among clients and the scientific community for integrity, responsiveness, and technical expertise.
• Adept people management abilities coupled with extensive experience in successfully overseeing and executing complex projects.
• Strong commitment to professional development.
• This is a revenue-generating role with substantial sales expectations. This position requires achieving annual sales in excess of $1 million. Candidates must demonstrate a proven track record of managing an active client portfolio that consistently generates at least $1 million in annual revenue within industrial sectors or law firms (excluding revenue derived from government funding for academic research projects).

Responsibilities

• Leverage deep knowledge in polymer science to address complex challenges across client sectors.
• Identify, pursue, and secure new client engagements by understanding emerging needs.
• Maintain and grow relationships with existing clients by delivering high-quality work.
• Build, manage, and empower multidisciplinary teams.
• Provide guidance and development opportunities to technical staff.
• Ensure successful project execution through planning and budgeting.
• Offer high-level scientific and strategic advice to stakeholders and clients.
• Enhance the firm's visibility by publishing and presenting at industry venues.
• Inspect, test, and analyze polymeric materials for various applications.
• Conduct root cause investigations on failing materials and communicate findings.

Skills

Polymer science

Materials science

Client development

Communication skills

Project leadership

Sales experience

Education

PhD in Polymer Science or Materials Science

Job description

Exponent is seeking a Principal Scientist in the Polymers & Chemistry Practice to lead interdisciplinary teams addressing polymer materials across life sciences, consumer products, infrastructure, and automotive sectors. The role requires 10+ years in polymer science/consulting, a robust client book, and proven revenue generation.

The candidate will guide project execution, mentor staff, and communicate complex science to diverse audiences while expanding client partnerships and industry thought