Jr Test Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

ABOUT THE COMPANY At RS, we are redefining how the world builds reliable energy infrastructure. We design and manufacture advanced composite utility poles that are lighter, stronger, and longer-lasting than traditional materials such as wood, steel, and concrete. Our poles are engineered for superior performance in the most demanding environments, providing utilities with a durable, low-maintenance, and sustainable solution for a more resilient grid.

With operations in North America and customers across 30+ countries, RS is a leader in grid resilience, driven by our values of Safety, Respect, Resilience, and Teamwork.

THE OPPORTUNITY

We're looking for an innovative and detail-oriented Polymer Chemist to join our Technical Development and Research team at Resilient Structures (RS). In this role, you'll play a key part in advancing the quality, performance, and processing of our polyurethane resin systems used in composite utility poles.

You'll collaborate with cross-functional teams across Technical Development, Quality, and Manufacturing to develop, test, and optimize cutting-edge resin formulations that drive product innovation and reliability. From supporting lab trials and analyzing data to identifying new materials and improving formulations, you'll help shape the next generation of high-performance composite products.

At RS, you'll gain exposure across all areas of our business, contribute to meaningful sustainability initiatives, and play an important role in helping us build durable, efficient, and environmentally responsible composite solutions for the future.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Formulate, develop, and optimize polyurethane resin systems for composite applications.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to plan and evaluate experimental trials, ensuring consistent and reliable results.
• Conduct and interpret mechanical, thermal, and chemical testing, including Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA), and titration, to assess resin and composite properties.
• Identify and qualify raw materials, manufacturing processes, and equipment to meet production and quality standards.
• Maintain accurate documentation of experimental data, procedures, and analyses.
• Ensure proper maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment and promote adherence to all safety protocols.
• Stay current with technological, regulatory, and sustainability developments within the polyurethane and composites industries.
• Support ongoing sustainability initiatives, including low-carbon material sourcing and composite recycling efforts.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

WHAT YOU BRING

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Up to three years of experience in thermoset resin formulation and/or FRP composite manufacturing.
• Composite manufacturing experience in one of the following areas: filament winding, pultrusion, injection molding, RTM, vacuum infusion, compression molding, or other advanced composite manufacturing methods.
• Developing technical writing skills with some experience preparing technical reports and documentation.
• Basic knowledge of polymer testing and characterization methods (DSC, FTIR, DMA, titration).
• Familiarity with mechanical testing techniques for FRP composites (such as tensile, flexural, compression, ILSS).
• Basic Knowledge of Design of Experiments (DOE) methodologies and statistical data analysis to drive formulation and process optimization.
• Some experience with root cause analysis and troubleshooting manufacturing or quality issues in a production environment.
• Good analytical, communication, and teamwork skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, research-driven environment.
• Commitment to laboratory safety and continuous improvement.
• Experience with color science, coatings, or fire performance testing is an asset.
• Awareness of sustainability and regulatory trends in polymer and composite materials.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits.
• Retirement savings plans with company contributions.
• Employer-paid life and short-term disability insurance.
• Optional additional coverage (life, long-term disability).
• Generous paid time off and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Opportunities for growth and development within a global, forward-thinking company.

Why Join Us?

At RS, you'll help shape the next generation of advanced composite materials that strengthen the reliability and sustainability of the power grid. As a Polymer Chemist, your work will directly impact how communities stay connected through innovative, high-performance products.

You'll join a collaborative, mission-driven culture where innovation, curiosity, and technical excellence are valued. Here, your research and ideas won't just stay in the lab - they'll become real-world solutions that make a measurable difference.

If you're passionate about materials science, sustainability, and developing cutting-edge technologies, we'd love to have you on our team.

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