Vehicle Engineer (M.S./Ph.D.)

Exponent, Inc; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) employer contribution

Annual bonus

Flexible work hours

Job summary

Exponent, Inc is seeking a Vehicle Engineer (MS/PhD) in Tampa, FL. You will analyze transportation accidents and mechanical failures, manage projects, and conduct research in automotive technology.

The ideal candidate will have a Master’s or Ph.D. in Engineering, strong problem-solving skills, and hands-on experience. We value work/life balance and offer a collaborative work environment. Compensation includes salary, bonuses, and a 401(k) contribution.

Qualifications

• Master's degree (with thesis) or Ph.D. in an Engineering field is required.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States.
• Experience with field and/or lab measurements.
• P.E. license or willingness to obtain one.
• Experience presenting at a conference.

Responsibilities

• Manage projects from initiation to completion.
• Perform original research in accident reconstruction.
• Develop automotive expertise.
• Conduct vehicle inspections.
• Prepare reports and present findings.

Skills

Knowledge of automotive systems and vehicles

Analytical and problem-solving skills

Leadership and communication skills

Hands-on skills

Knowledge of dynamics and mechanical design

Education

Master's degree or Ph.D. in Engineering (Mechanical Engineering required)

Tools

3D CAD

Job description

Our Opportunity

We are currently seeking a Vehicle Engineer (MS/PhD) for our Vehicle Engineering Practice in Tampa, FL. In this role, you will work as part of a team to analyze transportation and heavy equipment accidents, mechanical failures, and the evaluation of the design and safety of consumer and industrial products. You will have excellent technical skills, hands‑on skills, communication skills, and be motivated to ultimately develop your own consulting practice and grow professionally within Exponent.

You will be responsible for

• Managing projects from initiation to completion; communicating project updates to other team members, clients, and administrative staff; ensuring that Exponent meets its deadlines and produces exceptional work product; and identifying business development opportunities
• Identifying areas of, and performing, original research that furthers knowledge in the field of accident reconstruction/automotive technology
• Developing a specialized expertise in the automotive field such as the design and performance of existing or emerging automotive technology, or analysis and reconstruction of transportation accidents
• Traveling to perform site, scene, vehicle and equipment inspections
• Preparing written reports and presenting results/findings to diverse audiences
• The ideal candidate should be willing and able to work overtime occasionally to fulfill client needs

You will have the following skills and qualifications

• Master's degree (with thesis) or Ph.D. in an Engineering field is required (at least one of the degrees, B.S./M.S./Ph.D., must be in Mechanical Engineering)
• Presently legally authorized to work in the United States; no immigration sponsorship or processing required
• Knowledge and interest in automotive systems and vehicles
• Field and/or lab measurement experience with excellent hands‑on skills (i.e. experience taking something apart to either fix it, or see how it works)
• Analytical and problem‑solving skills
• Must have knowledge of dynamics, mechanical design, and 3D CAD
• Must have analytical and problem‑solving skills
• P.E. license or the willingness to obtain a P.E. license
• Must possess strong leadership and verbal communication skills with the ability to synthesize and present technical information to a non‑technical audience
• Clear written communication and technical writing skills are required
• Experience writing a thesis, dissertation, peer‑reviewed technical paper, and/or experience presenting at a conference
• Must have a proven dedication to quality and accuracy

Work Environment

At Exponent, we have found that in‑person interactions deepen employee engagement and are crucial for development, for realizing the full potential of our talented and diverse teams, and for building a more inclusive workplace where all have a sense of belonging. In our offices, you can expect a supportive culture and a collaborative, dynamic, multi‑disciplinary work environment. Our consultants engage in‑person in the office unless they are traveling for client work or other business activities.

We value the rich lives our colleagues enjoy outside of work and understand that work/life balance is critical to our employees and their well‑being. Consultants have the autonomy to balance their work and personal schedules so you can meet with clients, visit inspection sites, attend conferences, and make time for priorities outside of work, too. It is this flexible, agile work style and working hours that allow our teams to drive innovation and results in their own ways, while meeting the needs of clients.

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.

Benefits you will enjoy

Access benefits information on our Life@Exponent page.

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].

Job Locations

US-FL-Tampa