Embedded Systems Engineer​/Evaluator; Ph.D

Embedded Systems Engineer/Evaluator (Ph.D.)

Location: Menlo Park, CA, USA

Position Type: Full-time

Practice: Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Salary Range: USD $ – $ per year

We are currently seeking a security-focused Embedded Systems Engineer/Evaluator for our Electrical Engineering and Computer Science practice in Menlo Park, CA. In this role, you will work as part of a team to test and troubleshoot secure identity credentials and other security peripherals such as smart cards relating to identity management and authentication. You will help test materials, components, and systems to assess them against standards and expectations relating to durability, reliability, quality, interoperability, performance, and security.

You may assess component performance against environmental or adversarial exposures such as repeated bending, UV sunlight, chemicals, X-rays, radio-frequency interrogation, side-channel analyses, fault-injection attacks, and a host of other tests. You will work on both physical and digital aspects of devices and systems both in your office, in the field, and in the lab.

• Performing electrical and digital lab tests.
• Creating clear and concise reports and visualizations for clients.
• Managing technical expectations of stakeholders.
• Developing your cybersecurity expertise through certification programs.
• Communicating technical information to diverse audiences, including preparation of technical reports and presentations.

• Ph.D. in Physics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong hands‑on engineering, lab, instrumentation, and research abilities.
• Strong problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and in multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience with, or an interest in, two or more of the following areas:
  • Hardware security
  • Network communications and security
  • Practical or theoretical cryptography
  • Sec Ops, threat detection/incident response
  • Blue teaming / red teaming
• Experience with at least one common programming language such as Python, C/C++, Java, MATLAB, Swift, or similar.
• Ability to learn new computer languages and tools as needed.
• Our contracts with the United States Government for this position require proof of U.S. citizenship and the possession of, or ability to obtain, a DoD security clearance.

• Experience with coding and troubleshooting Arduino or similar devices.
• Ability to perform instrumentation, troubleshooting, and potentially creation of electro‑mechanical components, test fixtures, and equipment.
• Ability to test systems and components for reliability, durability, and security.
• Ability to communicate technical information to diverse audiences, including preparation of technical reports and presentations.

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.

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