Senior Polymers Failure Analysis Consultant

Engineering Systems, Inc. (ESI); Santa Ana (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision

401k with employer match

Life Insurance

Competitive salary with bonus

Job summary

Engineering Systems Inc. (ESi) seeks a senior polymer/materials investigator to lead failure analyses, coordinate testing programs, and deliver expert reports for diverse clients. You will mentor staff, present findings, and participate in business development activities.

Requirements include 10–15 years in polymer/plastics analysis, hands-on lab skills (FTIR, DSC, SEM, GPC, tensile testing), strong report writing, and ability to testify. Occasional travel is expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field required; Master's or Ph.D. strongly preferred.
• Licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) preferred, or willingness to obtain.
• 10–15 years in polymer/plastics materials analysis, failure investigation, or related role.
• Deep hands-on lab experience with polymer characterization techniques (FTIR, DSC, SEM, GPC, tensile testing, etc.).
• Track record of technical reporting and peer-reviewed publications.
• Experience providing expert testimony desirable; consulting background preferred.

Responsibilities

• Plans, directs, and coordinates forensic investigations involving polymer and plastics failure analysis, material characterization, and product liability.
• Performs laboratory analyses and field inspections related to polymer, rubber, adhesive, and composite material failures.
• Conducts root cause failure analysis on polymer components, systems, and consumer products.
• Authors high-quality technical reports and expert opinions.
• Provides expert testimony at deposition and trial.
• Directs and coordinates projects within schedule and budget scopes.
• Mentors earlier-career employees and participates in business development activities.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Client interaction

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor's in Polymer Science/Materials Science/Chemical Engineering

Master's or PhD preferred

Professional Engineer (PE) preferred

Tools

FTIR

DSC

SEM

GPC

tensile testing

Office software

Job description

Engineering Systems Inc. (ESi) seeks a senior polymer/materials investigator to lead failure analyses, coordinate testing programs, and deliver expert reports for diverse clients. You will mentor staff, present findings, and participate in business development activities.

Requirements include 10–15 years in polymer/plastics analysis, hands-on lab skills (FTIR, DSC, SEM, GPC, tensile testing), strong report writing, and ability to testify. Occasional travel is expected.