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Contract Polymer Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

R&D Polymer Chemist

Amesbury, MA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Qualifications * BS/MS/PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering or ... S. federal government contracts that require the employment of only persons who are U.S. citizens.

R&D Polymer Chemist

Amesbury, MA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Qualifications * BS/MS/PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering or ... S. federal government contracts that require the employment of only persons who are U.S. citizens.

Qualifications * BS/MS/PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering or ... S. federal government contracts that require the employment of only persons who are U.S. citizens.

Temporary (minimum 1-year temp/contract role) Work Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm Pay Range ... Collaborate with manufacturing, engineering, quality, and R&D teams to successfully transfer new ...

Responsibilities * Develop and optimize polymer-based membrane coatings and related material ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of San Diego, CA. Pay and Benefits The ...

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Contract Polymer Engineer information

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$50.5K

$89.3K

$155K

How much do contract polymer engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract polymer engineer in the United States is $89,329.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a contract polymer engineer do?

A Contract Polymer Engineer is a specialist who works on a temporary or project basis to develop, test, and improve polymer materials and products. They may assist companies with designing new plastics, composites, or synthetic materials to meet specific performance requirements. Their work often involves material selection, formulation, process optimization, and troubleshooting within manufacturing settings. Contract Polymer Engineers typically collaborate with R&D teams, ensure compliance with industry standards, and may provide technical documentation or training. Their expertise helps companies innovate or solve material-related challenges without the need for a full-time hire.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract polymer engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Polymer Engineer, you need a solid background in polymer science, materials engineering, and problem-solving, typically supported by a degree in chemical or materials engineering. Familiarity with analytical tools like FTIR, DSC, TGA, and CAD software, along with knowledge of industry standards and possibly Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing certification, is often required. Strong project management, effective communication, and adaptability are important soft skills for collaborating with clients and cross-functional teams. These competencies ensure effective development, testing, and optimization of polymer products to meet specific project requirements and client expectations.

What are some common challenges faced by contract polymer engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Contract Polymer Engineers often encounter challenges such as rapidly adapting to new projects or industries, aligning with diverse client expectations, and managing tight project timelines. Success in this role typically depends on strong communication skills, quickly familiarizing oneself with client-specific materials and processes, and maintaining up-to-date technical knowledge. Building effective relationships with both client teams and in-house colleagues can help facilitate smooth project integration and successful outcomes.
More about Contract Polymer Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Polymer Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Contract Polymer Engineer job openings:
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Infographic showing various Contract Polymer Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,329 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

R&D Polymer Chemist

Hexcel Corporation

Amesbury, MA • On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Hexcel rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

ARC Technologies, a part of Hexcel (NYSE: HXL), is a leader in advanced materials supporting aerospace, defense, energy, and industrial applications. We take pride in developing innovative solutions that help our customers tackle some of their most demanding challenges.

We're seeking talented professionals who bring technical expertise, a collaborative mindset, and a commitment to excellence. If you're looking to make a meaningful impact while working alongside industry-leading scientists and engineers, we'd love to hear from you.

We're currently seeking an R&D Polymer Chemist to join our Amesbury, MA team and help develop next-generation RF absorber technologies and advanced polymer systems.

Hexcel is currently seeking a R&D Polymer Chemist for our Amesbury, MA location.The selected individual will be responsible for but not limited to the following obligations:

  • Participate as the materials expert in the development of next generation (RF) Radio Frequency absorbers.
  • Specify appropriate polymer systems to meet customers' desired material properties.
  • Modify existing polymer systems to improve specific properties like heat resistance, UV resistance, chemical resistance, etc.
  • Produce proof-of-concept and lab-scale samples for testing and evaluation.
  • Characterize composition, molecular weight and mechanical properties of developmental materials.
  • Assist in transition to production, including specifying or modifying equipment and developing production-scale processes.
  • Specify and source raw materials for synthesizing in-house polymer systems.

Qualifications

  • BS/MS/PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering or other equivalent technical degree
  • 5+ years of polymer modification and development experience OR a PhD degree in lieu of experience.
  • Extensive understanding of thermoset polymer chemistry, particularly urethane, silicone, and epoxy chemistry.
  • Experience with various production techniques, including spraying, casting, molding and pressing.
  • Experience with fluorinated elastomer systems is preferred.
  • Experience with RF absorbing or conductive polymer systems is preferred.
  • Applicants must be capable of obtaining a US Department of Defense security clearance.

By joining our team, you will become part of a global community of peers dedicated to creating quality parts and materials. If you have integrity, accountability, a willingness to explore new ideas, and a desire to succeed, then ARC Technologies, a part of Hexcel (NYSE: HXL), is the place for you.

Benefits

  • Hexcel 401k with company matching contribution
  • Competitive medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Employee stock purchase program
  • Quarterly bonus potential
  • Profit Sharing Program
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Educational Assistance Program
  • Prepaid group legal plan

Complete salary range for this role: $120,000-$160,000.

This position is restricted to U.S. citizens due to U.S. federal government contracts that require the employment of only persons who are U.S. citizens. Hexcel (NYSE: HXL) is a global leader in advanced composites technology, a leading producer of carbon fiber, and the world leader in honeycomb manufacturing for the commercial aerospace industry.

Hexcel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected class.


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