Thermal Sciences Associate/Sr. Associate (PhD) – CFD & Fire

Exponent; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Exponent is seeking a Chemical, Mechanical, Aerospace, or Fire Protection Engineer with a PhD for its Thermal Sciences Practice in Houston, TX. You will participate in and lead investigations of failures across engines, vehicles, buildings, and processes, applying thermodynamics, heat transfer, and combustion modeling to provide actionable insights.

The role requires strong communication skills, the ability to work in a fast-paced team, and willingness to travel domestically and internationally.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. required in a relevant engineering field.
• Strong technical background in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics.
• Experience developing combustion and fire models.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Ability to lead investigations and report findings.
• Willingness to travel within and outside the U.S.
• Team player in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead investigations into failures including structures, fires, explosions, and industrial processes.
• Perform engineering calculations and analyses.
• Utilize CFD and other computational tools.
• Conduct field work and data collection.
• Prepare proposals and technical reports for clients.
• Travel as needed.

Skills

Thermodynamics

Heat transfer

Fluid mechanics

Combustion modeling

CFD

Engineering analysis

Written communication

Team collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in Chemical, Mechanical, Aerospace, or Fire Protection Engineering

Job description

Exponent is seeking a Chemical, Mechanical, Aerospace, or Fire Protection Engineer with a PhD for its Thermal Sciences Practice in Houston, TX. You will participate in and lead investigations of failures across engines, vehicles, buildings, and processes, applying thermodynamics, heat transfer, and combustion modeling to provide actionable insights.

The role requires strong communication skills, the ability to work in a fast-paced team, and willingness to travel domestically and internationally.