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Polymer Composite Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

The Pennsylvania State University

POSITION SPECIFICS We are seeking scientists and engineers to join the Polymer Composite Manufacturing Department of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. As part of a technical team ...

Calspan LLC

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$95K - $135K/yr

We deliver highly engineered facilities, electro-mechanical systems, and software specifically ... Design & analysis of polymer composite materials. * 10% international and/or domestic travel USD ...

Actalent

R&D Technician

East Hartford, CT

Fabricate polymer composite and adhesively bonded test samples according to established procedures ... Apply engineering statistics and data analysis techniques to interpret test results and support ...

Calspan LLC

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$95K - $135K/yr

We deliver highly engineered facilities, electro-mechanical systems, and software specifically ... Design & analysis of polymer composite materials. * 10% international and/or domestic travel Salary ...

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Polymer Composite Engineer information

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$65K

$103.6K

$134K

How much do polymer composite engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,596 per year, or $49.8 per hour.

Composite Materials and Process Lab Engineer

Yoh - A Day & Zimmerman Company

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Composite Materials and Process Lab Engineer
Composite Material Formulation Development and Evaluation
  • Fabricate composite laminates from developmental composite material formulations using an autoclave, benchtop press, large press, or other composite fabrication methods (e.g., liquid infusion).
  • Prepare samples for photomicroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), mechanical testing, and measurement of physical and thermal material properties.
  • Perform photomicroscopy and coordinate mechanical, thermal, and physical testing with polymer laboratory personnel.
  • Conduct material design of experiments (DOE) studies and report results against performance targets established by composite materials engineers.
  • Develop processing guidelines based on material and process DOE results.
  • Develop and maintain sample preparation and testing standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  • Organize, inventory, and track incoming composite materials.
  • Monitor laboratory equipment maintenance requirements and perform routine maintenance and servicing of composites laboratory equipment.

Key Qualifications
  • Strong background in composite materials and composite processing.
  • Hands-on experience manufacturing composite parts using autoclave and press-molding processes.
  • Direct experience processing both thermoset and thermoplastic composite materials.
  • Training and experience in experimental design and statistical data analysis.
  • Ability to develop detailed experimental plans from high-level technical requirements.
  • Experience operating common laboratory equipment, including:
    • Specimen cutting and polishing equipment
    • Optical microscopy systems
    • Surface profilometers
    • Universal testing machines (UTM)
    • Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA)
    • Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC)
    • Thermomechanical Analysis (TMA)
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree (B.S.) in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Minimum of 3 years of hands-on materials and/or process engineering experience in composite materials development and manufacturing.

Estimated Min Rate: $60.00
Estimated Max Rate: $75.00
What s In It for You?
We welcome you to be a part of the largest and legendary global staffing companies to meet your career aspirations. Yoh s network of client companies has been employing professionals like you for over 65 years in the U.S., UK and Canada. Join Yoh s extensive talent community that will provide you with access to Yoh s vast network of opportunities and gain access to this exclusive opportunity available to you. Benefit eligibility is in accordance with applicable laws and client requirements. Benefits include:
  • Medical, Prescription, Dental & Vision Benefits (for employees working 20+ hours per week)
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) (for employees working 20+ hours per week)
  • Life & Disability Insurance (for employees working 20+ hours per week)
  • MetLife Voluntary Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • 401K Retirement Savings Plan
  • Direct Deposit & weekly epayroll
  • Referral Bonus Programs
  • Certification and training opportunities

Note: Any pay ranges displayed are estimations. Actual pay is determined by an applicant's experience, technical expertise, and other qualifications as listed in the job description. All qualified applicants are welcome to apply.
Yoh, a Day & Zimmermann company, is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
Visit ;/strong> to contact us if you are an individual with a disability and require accommodation in the application process.
For California applicants, qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act. All of the material job duties described in this posting are job duties for which a criminal history may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship potentially resulting in the withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment.
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
By applying and submitting your resume, you authorize Yoh to review and reformat your resume to meet Yoh s hiring clients preferences. To learn more about Yoh s privacy practices, please see our Candidate Privacy Notice: ;/strong>

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