Optical Characterization Specialist (Ph.D.)

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.  

We are committed to engaging multidisciplinary teams of science, engineering, and regulatory experts to empower our 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.s 
• 90+ Disciplines 
• 30+ Offices globally 

We are currently seeking an Optical Characterization Specialist for our Polymer Science & Materials Chemistry Practice in Natick, MA. In this role, you will use your fundamental knowledge of physics, chemistry and materials to solve multi-faceted problems in various industries including manufacturing, medical devices and consumer electronics. Candidates should have an advanced degree (Ph.D. or equivalent). Your long-term success at Exponent will be measured by your ability to grow professionally as an expert in your field as well as develop business by obtaining new projects and bringing new clients to the firm.

• Analysis of industrial design documents
• Understanding of international standards and regulations to advise clients on safest product design practices
• Design of custom optical apparatus and testing platforms
• Performing data analysis and writing custom analysis routines
• Writing technical reports and giving technical presentations
• Scientific analyses and testing to address issues related to the use of materials in applications from consumer products to pharmaceuticals and medical devices
• The position sometimes requires travel and will involve collaboration with scientists and engineers from other Exponent offices and practices, covering a wide range of disciplines and industries.

• Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry, Materials Science, Physics, or a related field
• Experience with hands-on experimental optics, including building and designing optical setups.
• LabVIEW automation and MATLAB/Python data analysis skills are a plus.
• Any experience in utilizing benchtop electronics such as power supplies, function generators etc. is also a plus.
• Direct experience or awareness of optical simulation software such as Zemax OpticStudio, LightTools or similar.
• General knowledge of material characterization techniques such as FTIR, SEM optical microscopy etc.
• A background in experimental optics and experience working with lasers and LEDs is preferred.
• The successful candidate will also possess extensive practical knowledge of the physical, chemical and mechanical behavior of materials and will be highly skilled in a range of analytical and experimental techniques, including FTIR, SEM, UV-VIS, DSC, XPS or similar.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Must be able to convey complex technical information to individuals in engineering, business, legal and related industries
• Superior problem-solving abilities
• Strong educational and publication credentials
• Strong teamwork and leadership skills

Applicants are encouraged to submit a CV with publications (feel free to include publications that are in review or pending) [not restricted to 1 page].

To learn more about life at Exponent and our impact, please visit the following links:

https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent

https://www.exponent.com/company/our-impact

Attracting, inspiring, developing, and rewarding exceptional people with diverse backgrounds and expertise are central to our corporate culture. Our diverse team allows us to provide better value to our clients and enjoy an enriched work environment.

Our firm is committed to offering a variety of programs and resources to support health and well-being. We believe that providing competitive benefits as well as compensation and recognition programs empowers our staff to do work that makes a difference.

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. #LI-Onsite

Access benefits information on our Life@Exponent page:

https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent

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 HR-Accommodations@exponent.com.