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Phd Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sr Research Engineer

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$96K - $128K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (Master's or PhD - preferred). * Minimum 8 years of experience in research, advanced product development, or technology development involving medium- or ...

Sr Research Engineer

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$96K - $128K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (Master's or PhD - preferred). * Minimum 8years of experience in research, advanced product development, or technology development involving medium- or ...

Showing results 21-40

Phd Engineer information

What is a PhD engineer?

A PhD Engineer is an individual who has completed a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in an engineering discipline. This advanced degree signifies deep expertise in a specialized area of engineering, often involving original research and the completion of a dissertation. PhD Engineers typically work in academia, research and development, or advanced industry roles where they contribute to scientific innovation and technological advancements. Their work often includes conducting research, publishing scholarly articles, and mentoring students or junior engineers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD engineer?

To thrive as a PhD Engineer, you need advanced expertise in engineering principles, research methodology, and problem-solving, typically supported by a doctoral degree in an engineering discipline. Familiarity with specialized technical tools, modeling software, data analysis platforms, and sometimes professional certifications are commonly required. Exceptional analytical thinking, innovation, and strong communication skills set top PhD Engineers apart in collaborative and research-driven environments. These competencies are vital for driving technological advancements, publishing impactful research, and leading complex engineering projects.

What are the typical career advancement opportunities for a PhD engineer in an industrial setting?

PhD Engineers in industry often start in research and development roles, where they apply their advanced technical expertise to solve complex problems. Over time, they may progress into senior scientist or technical lead positions, and can also transition into management roles such as R&D manager or director. Career growth is often driven by demonstrated innovation, successful project leadership, and strong collaboration skills. Additionally, PhD Engineers frequently have opportunities to shape company strategy, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to patent portfolios.

What is the difference between Phd Engineer vs Research Scientist?

AspectPhd EngineerResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD in Engineering or related fieldPhD in relevant scientific discipline
Work EnvironmentIndustry labs, R&D departments, manufacturingAcademic labs, research institutions, industry R&D
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, manufacturing firms, engineering firmsUniversities, government agencies, private research firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Phd Engineers and Research Scientists hold doctoral degrees and work in research-intensive environments. Phd Engineers typically focus on applied engineering projects within industry, while Research Scientists often work on fundamental scientific research in academic or government settings. The choice depends on whether you prefer industry application or scientific exploration.

Is a Phd engineer useful in engineering?

A PhD engineer brings advanced technical expertise, research skills, and problem-solving abilities to engineering projects. They are often involved in innovation, development, and complex analysis, making them valuable for specialized roles, research positions, and leadership in technical fields.

What jobs can I get with a Phd engineer?

A PhD in engineering qualifies individuals for advanced roles such as research scientist, university professor, R&D engineer, or technical consultant. These positions often require strong analytical skills, expertise in specialized tools or software, and may involve project management or collaboration in innovative environments.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Phd Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Phd Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Phd Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% Internship, 79% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 68% In-person, and 32% Remote job distribution.

Managing Engineer - Thermal Sciences (MS/PhD)

Exponent Inc.

Warrenville, IL • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

About Exponent

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
Our Opportunity

We are currently seeking a Manager/Managing Engineer with expertise in Mechanical Plant Systems Design, EPC Technical Services, Maintenance, and Commissioning, as well as Combustion Equipment for our Thermal Sciences Practice in Warrenville, IL; Chicago, IL; Houston, TX; or Atlanta, GA.

As a leader in our Thermal Sciences group, you will work on industry's most complex engineering challenges both domestically and internationally. Your work will involve safety management, failure analysis, and root cause analysis for complex issues in multiple industries including industrial manufacturing, power generation, chemical, oil, and gas production, LNG, and new plant construction projects. You will be part of bespoke, multidisciplinary teams, often utilizing staff from multiple geographically diverse offices.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in the in-plant aspects of equipment and process systems design, selection, and erection, commissioning, maintenance, and operations, as well as experience with the engineering design process, and exposure to the legal aspects surrounding disputes. Some experience in consulting is required, and dispute resolution experience or legal testimony is a plus. Expectations for the position include growing teams, recruiting and hiring exceptional engineering staff, and developing and building client relationships that lead to new and exciting opportunities for the firm.

You will be responsible for
  • Conducting failure analysis and root cause analysis investigations
  • Managing multidisciplinary teams and collaborating with experts in other technical disciplines
  • Identifying and pursuing business development opportunities
  • Project management and building client relationships
  • Performing engineering calculations and analyses
  • Planning and executing testing programs
  • Preparing written reports, proposals, and presentations
  • Domestic and international travel will likely be required
  • Most assignments will require the ability to gather information from, and convey technical conclusions to, individuals in engineering, the legal profession, business and industry
You will have the following skills and qualifications
  • A Ph.D., M.S., or M.Eng in Chemical, Petroleum, or Mechanical Engineering with a practical and theoretical understanding of combustion, heat transfer and fluid mechanics
  • Presently legally authorized to work in the United States. No immigration sponsorship or processing required.
  • A minimum of 5 years of relevant industry experience in the areas of plant engineering design, commissioning, and maintenance; process safety and risk assessment; engineering in in-plant organization team leadership, and/or in a client-facing technical consulting role, working on projects related to any or all of these technical areas.
  • At least one year of experience in a client-facing technical consulting environment is required.
  • Professional Engineering License preferred
  • Excellent written and verbal communications skills
  • Ability to gather information from, and convey technical conclusions to, individuals in engineering, the legal profession, business and industry
  • Outstanding skills and proven track record conducting incident investigations and hazard assessment via any recognized methodology

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].

Life @ Exponent

To learn more about life at Exponent and our impact, please visit the following links:https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponenthttps://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.

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. #LI-Onsite

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 Manager level and above total compensation includes base salary, 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.

Salary RangeUSD $150,000.00 - USD $220,000.00 /Yr.Benefits you will enjoy

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. 

Job LocationsUS-IL-Warrenville US-IL-Chicago US-TX-Houston US-GA-AtlantaEmployment Type: FULL_TIME