Materials Engineer

Thornton Tomasetti applies engineering and scientific principles to solve the world’s challenges. An independent organization of creative thinkers and innovative doers collaborating from offices worldwide, our mission is to bring our clients' ideas to life and, in the process, lay the groundwork for a better, more resilient future. We provide support and opportunities to our employees to achieve their full potential and cultivate a rewarding career.

Our Forensic practice investigates problems with structures, equipment, devices, and products. We are actively growing our expertise in materials science and engineering to provide evidence-based solutions grounded in materials science fundamentals and rigorous analysis. We assist attorneys, manufacturers, owners, contractors, and design professionals with a wide range of engineering issues, addressing materials- and mechanics-related challenges and delivering actionable insights tailored to each client’s unique needs.

The Role 

We have an immediate opening for a Forensic Materials Engineer to join our dynamic team. This role spans materials science and mechanical applications—from product design and material selection to failure analysis and characterization—to serve a wide range of industries, including construction, litigation, and manufacturing. You’ll use advanced laboratory testing methods and advanced analytical capabilities to investigate material failures, assess product performance, and resolve design or manufacturing issues. Projects range from accident investigations and product development to quality assessments and forensic analyses for litigation. You’ll collaborate with colleagues and clients to identify root causes, develop solutions, and present clear, technically rigorous findings. The ideal candidate has a strong foundation in materials science or mechanics of materials, excellent attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple assignments. You will help advance our laboratory capabilities and ensure our practice remains at the forefront of materials forensics and client service. 

Responsibilities 

• On-site inspections and investigations including documenting observations, photographing, sketching, and evidence retrieval. 

• Research on component design and manufacturing, technical issues in the fields of materials science and mechanics of materials, code issues, and materials performance. 

• Organizing field and laboratory data to facilitate analysis and problem-solving. 

• Conducting and or coordinating materials testing and failure analysis in laboratory settings as part of forensic investigations. 

• Completing analysis and repair design of concrete, steel, timber, masonry, and other structural systems, with attention to material properties and degradation mechanisms. 

• Preparing clear, concise, and technically rigorous reports for clients and legal proceedings. 

• Managing multiple projects concurrently and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. 

Requirements 

• Degree (Master’s preferred) in materials, mechanical, structural, or architectural engineering; an undergraduate degree in engineering is required. 

• Demonstrated knowledge of materials science fundamentals and experience with laboratory testing or materials analysis preferred. 

• Field or laboratory experience preferred. 

• Strong report writing and communication skills. 

• Ability and willingness to travel within the US and internationally. 

Benefits

Depending on your employment status, benefits may include:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D, Disability and other voluntary benefits

• Flexible Spending Accounts for Medical & Childcare

• Paid Time Off, Family Leave for New Parents, Volunteer Time

• Tuition Reimbursement

• Commuter Transit (where available)

• 401k retirement savings with Company matching on employee contributions and/or qualified student loan repayments

• Fitness Reimbursement

• And other various wellness, diversity/inclusion and employee resource programs and initiatives

Thornton Tomasetti is proud to be an equal employment workplace. Individuals seeking employment at Thornton Tomasetti are considered without regards to age, ancestry, color, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, national origin, protected family care or medical leave status, race, religion (including beliefs and practices or the absence thereof), sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

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