Senior Consultant Polymer Science

Company Description Engineering Systems Inc. (ESi) is a forensic engineering and scientific investigation firm focused on delivering actionable solutions to complex technical and industry challenges. The organization combines data-driven insights with multidisciplinary collaboration to address projects of varying size and complexity. ESi’s experts use advanced technologies and deep professional expertise to provide thorough analyses and clear, practical recommendations. The firm supports clients across the globe, offering a dynamic environment for professionals who value rigorous problem-solving and impactful work. Team members benefit from exposure to diverse cases and cross-functional collaboration with leading technical specialists.Role Description The Senior Consultant Polymer Science role is a full-time, on-site position based in Aurora, IL. The person in this role will plan and perform forensic investigations involving polymeric materials, including plastics, elastomers, coatings, and composites, to determine performance, durability, and root causes of failures. Day-to-day tasks include designing and conducting laboratory tests, interpreting analytical data, preparing technical reports, and presenting findings to clients, legal teams, and internal stakeholders. The Senior Consultant will collaborate with multidisciplinary engineers and scientists on complex cases, assist in developing project scopes and budgets, and contribute to business development activities such as proposal writing and client meetings. The role may also involve providing expert testimony, mentoring junior staff, and staying current with industry standards, materials science research, and analytical techniques relevant to polymer applications and failure analysis.Qualifications Strong foundation in polymer science and engineering, including characterization, processing, and failure mechanisms of plastics, elastomers, coatings, and composites.Hands-on experience with materials testing and analytical methods (e.g., mechanical testing, thermal analysis, spectroscopy, microscopy, fracture analysis).Demonstrated ability to conduct root-cause investigations, interpret complex data sets, and translate findings into clear, defensible technical conclusions.Proficiency in technical writing, including preparation of detailed reports, presentations, and documentation suitable for clients and potential legal proceedings.Excellent verbal communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.Proven project management abilities, including scoping work, managing timelines and budgets, and coordinating multidisciplinary teams.Experience in consulting, forensic engineering, product development, or reliability engineering involving polymeric materials is strongly preferred.Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field; relevant industry experience at a senior level is highly valued.Ability to work on-site in Aurora, IL, and to travel as needed for site inspections, testing, and client meetings.Strong ethical judgment,