Freelance Graduate Polymer Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Associate Process Engineer (12-Month Temporary Assignment with Potential for Full-Time Hire)

Mason, MI

Are you a recent graduate or early-career engineer who is passionate about sustainability, materials science, chemistry, and product innovation? Looking for an opportunity to gain hands-on experience with real-world products used by millions every day?

We're seeking an Associate Process Engineer to join our team in Mason, MI for a 12-month temporary assignment with the potential for full-time employment. This is an exciting opportunity to work on sustainable packaging solutions, collaborate with industry experts, and develop technical expertise in testing, materials, manufacturing processes, and product development.

What You'll Do

As an Associate Process Engineer, you'll play a key role in supporting product and process development initiatives focused on sustainability and performance. You'll work closely with laboratories, suppliers, manufacturing teams, and engineers to coordinate testing programs, analyze results, and help drive innovation.

Key responsibilities include:

• Coordinate internal and third-party laboratory testing programs
• Manage testing activities, including physical and wet chemistry evaluations
• Arrange, track, and follow through on testing of substrates, materials, and packaging components
• Analyze and document test results and technical findings
• Support sustainable product initiatives, including compostable, biodegradable, and alternative material technologies
• Review technical data sheets and collaborate with suppliers on material performance and specifications
• Assist with bill of material calculations and material composition analysis
• Create and maintain testing parameters and technical documentation within SAP
• Participate in process improvement, troubleshooting, and root cause investigations
• Work cross-functionally with Engineering, Production, Quality, R&D, and Supplier partners
• Document engineering changes, technical improvements, and standard operating procedures
• Support feasibility studies and continuous improvement projects focused on quality, efficiency, and sustainability

What You'll Learn

This role provides outstanding exposure to:

Sustainable packaging technologies

Compostable and biodegradable materials

Polymers, paper products, cups, lids, and foodservice packaging

Product development and manufacturing processes

Laboratory testing and data analysis

SAP systems and engineering documentation

Supplier collaboration and technical material evaluation

Cross-functional project management

We're Looking For

Recent graduates and early-career professionals with a strong technical foundation and a desire to learn.

Preferred Degrees

• Chemical Engineering
• Materials Science Engineering
• Chemistry
• Formulation Science
• Polymer Science
• Packaging Engineering
• Other relevant Science or Engineering disciplines

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Interest in materials, sustainability, and product development
• Ability to manage multiple projects and coordinate activities across teams
• Comfortable interpreting technical data and laboratory results
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Experience with laboratory testing, materials characterization, or manufacturing processes is a plus

Why Join Us?

This is more than a temporary opportunity. It's a chance to gain valuable experience working on innovative and sustainable products while building relationships across engineering, manufacturing, quality, and supplier teams.

If you're eager to launch your engineering career, learn from experienced professionals, and make an impact on the future of sustainable packaging, we'd love to hear from you.