Senior Principal Scientist, Polymers & Chemistry

Exponent; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 225,000 - 275,000; Full time

Job summary

Exponent is seeking a Principal Scientist in the Polymers & Chemistry practice. The role leads interdisciplinary teams to solve complex polymer material challenges across diverse industries and requires a PhD with 10+ years of consulting experience. The position opens across all U.S.

offices, including Atlanta, with travel as needed and a target to generate substantial client revenue. The successful candidate will mentor staff, manage projects, and contribute to thought leadership through

Qualifications

• PhD in Polymer Science or Materials Science required.
• Minimum 10 years of polymer/science consulting experience.
• Proven track record of business generation.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Revenue-generating role with $1M+ annual sales.

Responsibilities

• Lead interdisciplinary project teams to address polymer/material challenges.
• Identify and secure new client engagements and build long-term partnerships.
• Maintain and grow relationships with existing clients and act as strategic advisor.
• Build and empower multidisciplinary teams and foster collaboration.
• Provide guidance and development opportunities to technical staff.
• Ensure successful project execution with planning and budgeting.
• Publish and present to enhance thought leadership and credibility.
• Inspect, test, and analyze polymeric materials for performance and reliability.
• Perform root-cause investigations on material failures in production or use.
• Communicate technical conclusions effectively to engineering, business, and legal audiences.

Skills

Business development

Communication skills

Leadership

Analytical problem-solving

People management

Project management

Education

PhD in Polymer Science or Materials Science

Job description

Exponent is seeking a Principal Scientist in the Polymers & Chemistry practice. The role leads interdisciplinary teams to solve complex polymer material challenges across diverse industries and requires a PhD with 10+ years of consulting experience. The position opens across all U.S.

offices, including Atlanta, with travel as needed and a target to generate substantial client revenue. The successful candidate will mentor staff, manage projects, and contribute to thought leadership through