Staff Consultant; Polymers

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Full Time Aurora, Aurora, IL, US

About ESi

Engineering Systems Inc. (ESi) is an engineering and scientific investigation and failure analysis firm. We are frequently retained by law firms, insurance companies, and manufacturers to answer complex technical questions on projects ranging from small, focused investigations to large-scale, high-profile losses.

Our work spans a wide range of challenges, including major transportation accidents, equipment and product failures, personal injury claims, and damage to residential, commercial, and industrial structures. The variety, complexity, and real-world impact of our projects create deeply fulfilling and intellectually engaging careers for our consultants.

At ESi, you’ll have the opportunity to shape your own path while being supported by a collaborative culture, national expertise, and industry-leading resources.

Why ESi

ESi’s Materials Practice focuses on hands‑on failure analysis and advanced material characterization across industries. With access to a network of in‑house laboratories, engineers evaluate material behavior and performance in a collaborative environment that emphasizes technical rigor and continuous development.

Key Responsibilities

• Conducts and directs laboratory analysis using optical microscopes, scanning electron microscope, differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) microscopy, and Thermogravimetric Analyzer (TGA).
• Conduct ASTM standard based tests for tensile, flexural, compression properties using mechanical testing machine.
• Conducts and directs field investigations as needed.
• Performs technical analysis, calculations, testing and research.
• Prepares technical reports, provides professional opinions and advice for clients, or others.
• Confers with project personnel to provide technical advice and to resolve problems.
• Confers with project staff to outline work plan and to assign duties, responsibilities, and scope of authority.
• Directs and coordinates project activities and personnel to ensure project progresses on schedule and within prescribed budget.
• Reviews, or in some cases formulates status reports prepared by project personnel and modifies schedules or plans as required.
• Conduct technical analysis and investigations pertaining to materials with a focus on polymer science.
• Technical evaluations and testing focused on product design, manufacturing, material selection, and chemical compatibility and long‑term material properties.
• Verbal and written communication with clients, conducts well‑developed and well‑prepared client presentations.
• Co‑ordinates project activities with staff and clients, with proper internal reviews.

Qualifications

Education / Certifications / Licenses Required

• Bachelor of Polymer Science/engineering degree or equivalent from accredited institution required.
• Advanced degree (PhD) preferred.
• Professional engineering license, (PE) or equivalent preferred.

Experience Required

• 3 to 5 years of related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Other Technical & Non-Technical Skills

• Familiar with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Powerpoint.
• Proficient at keyboarding to produce written communications and reports in a timely manner.
• Knowledge with technical and modeling software, such as Math Cad, Autocad, or similar programs is preferred.
• Strong familiarity application of industry standards, chemical analysis, mechanical testing, and service life predictions of products.
• Willingness and ability to actively market self and ESi to outside clients.
• Willingness and ability to travel locally and nationally for inspections, client meetings, conferences, etc as needed.

What We Can Offer You

We believe great work happens when people feel supported, challenged, and trusted. Some of the benefits we offer include:

• Life Insurance/Voluntary Life Insurance/Universal Life Insurance
• 401k with employer match
• Pet Insurance
• Flexible Time Off (FTO) – encouraged to take 20 days of paid time off/year
• 10 paid…