Scientist/Associate (Ph.D.) Scientist/Associate (Ph.D.) Exponent Hybrid · Seattle, WA, US 3 min[...]

Seeds Renewables; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 124,800 - 161,200; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) employer contribution of 7%

Bi-weekly bonuses for high-intensity efforts

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

A consulting firm is seeking a Scientist/Associate in Seattle to analyze material systems, requiring a Ph.D. in Materials Science or related field. Candidates should have practical knowledge of macromolecules and experience with analytical techniques. The role involves inspections, testing, and leading technical teams. A competitive salary between $124,800 and $161,200 per year is offered, along with benefits for career growth.

Qualifications

• Strong practical knowledge of the physical, chemical, and mechanical behavior of macromolecules.
• Experience in polymer and composite processing preferred.
• Desire to learn adjacent concepts and lead technical teams.

Responsibilities

• Conduct inspections and scientific analysis of material performance.
• Develop new test protocols for material characterization.
• Perform root-cause investigations on failing materials.

Skills

Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of macromolecules

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Strong critical-thinking and problem-solving capabilities

Experience with analytical techniques (FTIR, DSC, TGA)

Strong teamwork and leadership skills

Education

Ph.D. in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Microscopy

Fractography

Mechanical testing

Raman

FTIR

DSC

TGA

DMA

Job description

Exponent is the only premium engineering and scientific consulting firm with the depth and breadth of expertise to solve our clients’ most profoundly unique, unprecedented, and urgent challenges.

Our vision is to engage multidisciplinary teams of science, engineering, and regulatory experts to empower clients with solutions that create a safer, healthier, more sustainable world. For over five decades, we’ve connected the lessons of past failures with tomorrow’s solutions to advise clients as they innovate technologically complex products and processes, ensure the safety and health of their users, and address the challenges of sustainability.

Join our team of experts with degrees from top programs at over 500 universities and extensive experience spanning a variety of industries. At Exponent, you’ll contribute to the diverse pool of ideas, talents, backgrounds, and experiences that drives our collaborative teamwork and breakthrough insights. Plus, we help you grow your career through mentoring, sponsorship and a culture of learning. Thanks for your interest in joining our team!

Key statistics:

• 950+ Consultants
• 640+ Ph.D.
• 30+ Offices globally

Our Opportunity

Exponent’s Polymers and Chemistry Practice is currently hiring a Scientist/Associate to join our consulting staff in our Seattle, WA office. Candidates should have an advanced degree (Ph.D. or equivalent), with some related industrial experience considered a plus. The successful candidate will possess extensive practical knowledge of the physical, chemical, and mechanical behavior of macromolecules and will be highly detail‑oriented and skilled in a range of analytical and experimental techniques including microscopy, fractography, mechanical testing, Raman, FTIR, DSC, TGA, and DMA. Experience in polymer and composite processing (e.g. extrusion, resin‑transfer molding, injection molding), process troubleshooting, and polymer failure analysis is a plus. This position requires strong technical communication and interpersonal skills, as well as the desire to learn concepts that may be adjacent to the candidate’s core expertise. This position also requires some travel and will involve collaboration with scientists and engineers from other Exponent offices and practices. A successful candidate must demonstrate the ability to lead technical teams and communicate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences. A long‑term goal for a successful candidate will be to develop business by obtaining new projects and bringing new clients to the firm.

You will be responsible for

• Inspections, scientific analysis, and testing to understand the performance of material systems and the processes by which they are made
• Following established test protocols, or in their absence, developing new test protocols to characterize materials
• Performing root‑cause investigations on failing or under‑performing materials/components by scientifically examining the development, manufacturing, and end‑use environment of products
• Assignments will require the ability to gather information from and convey technical conclusions to individuals in engineering, business, law, and industry

You will have the following skills and qualifications

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
• A strong theoretical and practical knowledge of macromolecules and associated characterization techniques
• Experience with sampling techniques and statistical data analysis for FTIR, DSC, TGA, DMA, fractography, chromatography and microscopy (optical and electron‑based techniques)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong critical‑thinking and problem‑solving capabilities
• Strong educational and publication credentials
• Strong teamwork and leadership skills

Compensation

Our consultants are rewarded for their technical and business contributions and have an opportunity to plan for future success and career growth. Exponent’s total compensation plan is consistent with its expectations of the quality and quantity of work performed and with the professional standards set by Exponent. At the Associate and Senior Associate level, total compensation includes base salary, bi‑weekly bonuses for high‑intensity efforts, annual bonus and 401(k) employer contribution of 7% of base salary.

The base salary range for this position is dependent on experience and capabilities which will be assessed during the interview process.

Salary Range

USD $124,800.00 – $161,200.00 per year.

Benefits you will enjoy

Access benefits information on our Life@Exponent page: https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent

Job Locations

US-WA-Seattle

Equal Employment Opportunity

Exponent is a proud equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status. If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, you may email us at [e-mail].