ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Polymer Composite Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

$86K - $164K/yr

POSITION SPECIFICS We are searching for a motivated Mechanical Research and Development Engineer to join our Polymer Composite Manufacturing (PCM) team in the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at ...

Howmet

R&D Engineer, Polymer Binder

Morristown, TN · On-site

... The Polymer Binder Engineer is a position within our Howmet R&D team, located in Morristown, TN ... composite ceramics and their interactions with metals during investment casting * Demonstrated ...

Senior plc

Composite Manufacturing Engineer

Burbank, CA · On-site

$75K/yr

Coordinate with the Polymer/Metal 3D printing labs to integrate additive manufacturing solutions ... In addition to the above, Composite Manufacturing Engineers are to maintain an organized, clean and ...

Senior plc

Composite Manufacturing Engineer

Burbank, CA · On-site

$75K/yr

Coordinate with the Polymer/Metal 3D printing labs to integrate additive manufacturing solutions ... In addition to the above, Composite Manufacturing Engineers are to maintain an organized, clean and ...

NovoLINC Inc

Materials Scientist

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

Qualifications · PhD in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related materials-focused discipline. · Proven expertise in polymer composite engineering to formulate and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPolymer Composite Engineer Jobs

Polymer Composite Engineer information

See salary details

$65K

$103.6K

$134K

How much do polymer composite engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer composite engineer in the United States is $103,596.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,000.00 and $119,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Polymer Composite Engineers?

Polymer Composite Engineers are specialized professionals who design, develop, and test materials made from polymers (plastics) combined with other materials to create composites with enhanced properties. These engineers work to improve the strength, durability, and performance of materials used in industries like aerospace, automotive, construction, and sports equipment. Their role involves selecting suitable materials, understanding manufacturing processes, and ensuring that the final composites meet specific standards and requirements.

What is the difference between Polymer Composite Engineer vs Materials Scientist?

AspectPolymer Composite EngineerMaterials Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Polymer Engineering, Materials Science, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science, Chemistry, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, aerospace, automotive industriesResearch labs, industrial settings, academia, R&D departments
Industry UsageDesigning and testing composite materials for structural applicationsStudying material properties, developing new materials, analyzing failure modes

Polymer Composite Engineers focus on designing and testing composite materials used in industries like aerospace and automotive, while Materials Scientists study the properties and development of various materials. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work in research or industrial labs, but their specific focus areas differ.

What are some common challenges faced by Polymer Composite Engineers during the product development cycle?

Polymer Composite Engineers often encounter challenges such as selecting the appropriate matrix and reinforcement materials to achieve desired mechanical properties while maintaining manufacturability and cost-effectiveness. Troubleshooting issues related to adhesion, void formation, and curing processes is also common, especially when scaling up from prototypes to full production. Additionally, engineers must work closely with cross-functional teams, including design, manufacturing, and quality assurance, to ensure that composite components meet strict regulatory and performance standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Polymer Composite Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Polymer Composite Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science, composite mechanics, and manufacturing processes, typically supported by a degree in chemical, mechanical, or materials engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, finite element analysis (FEA), and industry standards like ASTM or ISO, as well as experience with testing and characterization equipment, is crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are vital for developing innovative, reliable composite solutions and ensuring product quality from design through production.
More about Polymer Composite Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Polymer Composite Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Polymer Composite Engineer jobs are:
Polymer Composite Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Polymer Composite Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,596 per year, or $49.8 per hour.
R&D Engineer, Polymer Binder

R&D Engineer, Polymer Binder

Howmet Aerospace

Morristown, TN

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Howmet Aerospace rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 155 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 60 rated aerospace companies

Job description

The Polymer Binder Engineer is a position within our Howmet R&D team, located in Morristown, TN.  This role is responsible for a combination of development and support for Howmet’s core manufacturing facilities.  

Primary Responsibilities

  • Develop new materials and processes for ceramic core manufacturing to support Howmet’s investment casting plants
  • Refine existing materials and processes to improve yield and reduce cost while maintaining customer quality
  • Evaluate and help solve problems in the batching of materials, forming of green cores, and firing of ceramic cores
  • Characterize the interactions between organic/polymeric binders and ceramic materials during batching, molding, and de-bind with a focus on improving consistency and yield
  • Work collaboratively with equipment manufacturers to understand and tailor the equipment (such as injection molding machines) used to make cores
  • Maintain a close relationship with raw material suppliers to support improvements to current materials and processes, and to facilitate material replacements when necessary
  • Lead the concurrent engineering, process development, and new part introduction for advanced Aero and IGT cores
  • Advance Howmet’s technical capability in investment casting and ability to support advanced OEM part designs
  • Provide support to casting and core manufacturing operations worldwide as required

Basic Qualifications

  • A BS Degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Polymers Science, Organic Chemistry, Ceramics Engineering, or Chemical Engineering (or related STEM field) from an accredited institution
  • 2 years experience characterizing, testing, processing, manufacturing, formulating, or evaluating performance of polymers, plastics, or silicones
  • Ability to work in a self-directed or team environment, balance multiple projects, and prioritize commitments
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, and an ability to communicate at all levels of an organization
  • Ability to travel up to 25%, including international travel
  • Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States.  Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.  Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
  • This position is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) which requires U.S. person status

Preferred Qualifications

  • MS or PhD in Materials Science and Engineering, Polymers Science, Organic Chemistry, Ceramics Engineering, or Chemical Engineering (or related STEM field) from an accredited institution
  • 5 years experience characterizing, testing, processing, manufacturing, formulating, or evaluating performance of polymers, plastics, or silicones
  • Experience in polymer characterization techniques and equipment including DSC, TGA, DMA, rheometry, and mechanical property testing
  • Experience forming complex shapes, such as in the automotive or medical fields, using techniques such as extrusion, injection molding, thermoset transfer molding, or compression molding
  • Knowledge of rheology polymers, surface interactions between fillers and binders, organic binder and dispersant formulation development, mechanisms of curing, and the complex materials property relationships in composite ceramics and their interactions with metals during investment casting
  • Demonstrated skills in problem solving complex issues using analytical tools, designed experiments (and the DMAIC process), and data analysis of results
    Demonstrated ability to work closely with customers on new products, processes, and materials for manufacturability and quality
  • Experience in additive manufacturing (3D printing) of polymers or ceramics
  • Mechanical aptitude and working knowledge of investment casting materials (polymers, ceramics, composites, and metals) or injection molding (ceramics, metals, silicones, plastics, polymers, waxes)

What Howmet Aerospace employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Howmet Aerospace logo

About Howmet Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company's sales for 2021 approximated $5 billion. The Company's primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With nearly 1,150 granted and pending patents, the Company's differentiated technologies promote more fuel efficiency for aircraft and commercial transportation. Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

Year founded

1888

View All Howmet Aerospace Jobs

Apply