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Junior Polymer Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

TIAG

Senior AI-ML Integration Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$127K - $168K/yr

Define technical requirements, break down tasks for complex engineering projects, and mentor junior ... Frontend: React, React Native, Polymer, JavaScript, HTML5, CSS3. * Backend & Services: Strong ...

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Junior Polymer Engineer information

What does a junior polymer engineer do?

A Junior Polymer Engineer assists in the research, development, testing, and production of polymer materials, such as plastics, resins, and composites. They typically support senior engineers by conducting experiments, analyzing materials, and troubleshooting issues in manufacturing processes. Their responsibilities may also include collecting and interpreting data, preparing reports, and ensuring that materials meet quality and safety standards. This entry-level role is designed to build foundational skills in polymer engineering and provide hands-on experience in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior polymer engineer?

To thrive as a Junior Polymer Engineer, you need a solid background in polymer science, materials engineering, or chemical engineering, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, polymer characterization techniques, and software such as MATLAB or CAD tools is frequently required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you excel in research and development environments. These competencies ensure precise analysis, successful collaboration, and innovative solutions in the rapidly evolving polymer industry.

What are some typical challenges a junior polymer engineer might face when working on new material development projects?

As a Junior Polymer Engineer, you may encounter challenges such as understanding the complexities of polymer behavior under different processing conditions and adapting to rapidly evolving material requirements. Collaborating with cross-functional teams—including chemists, product designers, and manufacturing staff—can also present communication and technical alignment hurdles. Additionally, balancing hands-on laboratory work with data analysis and documentation responsibilities often requires strong organizational skills and adaptability. With mentorship and experience, these challenges become valuable learning opportunities that contribute to your professional growth.

What is the difference between Junior Polymer Engineer vs Polymer Technician?

AspectJunior Polymer EngineerPolymer Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or related fieldAssociate degree or technical certification in polymer technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, research, and development labs; collaborative engineering teamsManufacturing plants; quality control labs; hands-on production settings
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, chemical companies, R&D departmentsManufacturers, production facilities, quality assurance teams

Junior Polymer Engineers typically focus on research, design, and development of polymer products, requiring a degree and analytical skills. Polymer Technicians usually work in production and quality control, with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the polymer industry but differ in responsibilities and work settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Polymer Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Polymer Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Junior Polymer Engineer jobs in Virginia?

For Junior Polymer Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Junior Polymer Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Junior Polymer Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Junior Polymer Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Junior Polymer Engineer job openings:

Junior Polymer Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Junior Polymer Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Materials Research Specialist

Luna Labs USA

Blacksburg, VA

$80K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Materials Research Specialist - Blacksburg, VA
About Luna Labs
Luna Labs is a product development company working with leading organizations and key government agencies to create unique solutions for complex challenges in defense, industrial, and healthcare markets. We operate like a self-contained incubator for defense and biotech startups, taking solutions from concept through development to new products in the market. We leverage small business agility and large business capabilities to accelerate breakthrough solutions from concept to early-stage growth. Working with a robust global network of manufacturers, suppliers, licensees, and distributors, Luna Labs develops everything from small-scale prototypes to market-ready products.
The Opportunity
The Materials group is seeking a creative, goal-oriented Materials Research Specialist to contribute to fast-paced research and development of new materials. This position will involve managing and executing R amp;D projects related to materials product development for our government and commercial customers. Current application areas include structural polymer composites, high/low temperature seals and gaskets, and chemical/biological protection.
This role will support research and development with hands-on polymer formulation, composite production, and material testing using new or established methodologies. Ideal candidates will have a background in materials science with specific experience in project management, including idea generation, experimental design/execution, scheduling, budgeting, data analysis, report writing, customer presentations, coordination of internal/external collaborators, and staff mentorship.
What You’ll Do
  • Manage research and development projects, including experimental design, problem solving, structure-property relationships, data summary and interpretation, report writing, and customer presentations
  • Perform physical testing for materials characterization using in-house equipment
  • Drive technology transition from product concept and prototypes to pilot-scale production, manufacturing, and commercialization
  • Identify new technologies and match them with applications to satisfy critical customer needs
  • Engage with internal and external scientific communities to maintain state-of-the-art knowledge to conduct experiments and projects
  • Travel to conduct testing at external facilities and/or present results to potential or existing customers
  • Maintain a culture of safety, cleanliness, and operational excellence across laboratory workspaces
  • Mentor junior staff in project management and technology development
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Materials Science, Polymer Engineering, or related discipline
  • 3--6 years of experience in hands-on materials research and development, including direct experience managing laboratory-based projects
  • Demonstrated experience with project management (budgeting, scheduling, customer presentations) and technical documentation but also comfortable in a chemical laboratory space
  • Strong desire to transition technologies into products
  • Excellent analytical, technical writing, and interpersonal communications skills; strong attention to detail and commitment to quality experimental work and documentation
  • Ability to thrive independently and within cross-functional teams in a fast-paced, collaborative R amp;D environment, with an eagerness to expand expertise beyond core disciplines
  • Due to government contracting regulations, U.S. Citizenship is a firm requirement.
Preferred Skills
  • Experience with prototyping, material scale-up, and transitioning from laboratory to low-rate initial production
  • Hands-on experience with thermoset polymer composite fabrication, including hand layup, tooling development, material characterization, and material structure-property relationships
Supervisory Role
  • No
Work Environment
  • Occasional travel between company locations, client sites, conferences, and related events is required.
  • Duties may occasionally be completed remotely using secure company equipment and software, at the supervisor's discretion.
  • Safety amp; PPE: Strictly follows environmental health and safety (EHS) guidelines; requires wearing standard PPE (safety glasses, gloves, lab coats, and respirators when needed).
  • Lab Operations: Involves hands-on research and technical interaction with lab staff, operating thermal/mechanical equipment, and handling chemicals (polymers, solvents, resins, adhesives, and powders) under fume hoods.
  • Physical Requirements: Ability to stand for multi-hour periods during experimental runs, perform fine-motor lab procedures, and occasionally lift or move equipment/materials up to 30 lbs.
What We Offer
  • Salary Range: $80,000 -- $90,000 annually depending on experience
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Opportunities for professional development and continued education
  • Collaborative, innovation-focused work culture
Luna Labs USA logo

About Luna Labs USA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

2022

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