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Polymer Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Teknor Apex

Process Engineer

Brownsville, TN · On-site

QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES: * BS or MS in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Industrial Engineering or related discipline. * Good understanding of the ...

Teknor Apex Company

Process Engineer

Brownsville, TN · On-site

QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES: * BS or MS in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Industrial Engineering or related discipline. * Good understanding of the ...

Laborup

Process Engineer

Morristown, TN · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Overview We're hiring Process Engineers to join our polymer compounding manufacturing team. You'll spend most of your day on the production floor leading trials, troubleshooting manufacturing issues ...

Laborup

Process Engineer

Morristown, TN · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Overview We're hiring Process Engineers to join our polymer compounding manufacturing team. You'll spend most of your day on the production floor leading trials, troubleshooting manufacturing issues ...

Laborup

Process Engineer

Morristown, TN

$80K - $85K/yr

Overview We're hiring Process Engineers to join our polymer compounding manufacturing team. You'll spend most of your day on the production floor leading trials, troubleshooting manufacturing issues ...

Chromalox

Process Engineer (Extrusion)

La Vergne, TN · On-site

Minimum of 3 years of hands-on precision extrusion experience, preferably in cable, wire, tubing, or related polymer extrusion environments. * Background as an Extrusion Engineer, Plastics Engineer ...

GlycoData

Process Development Engineer

Kingsport, TN · On-site

$112 - $154/hr

Process Development Engineer - Eastman Chemical Company Location: Kingsport, TN Posted on: May 07 ... Deep understanding of polymer structure/property relationships and approaches to polymer ...

New

Zeus

Quality Engineer

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

As we continue to push the boundaries of polymer science, we're constantly in need of new ideas ... Content Four-year Engineering degree required Knowledge, skills, and abilities desired: Relevant ...

Zeus Company, Inc.

Quality Engineer

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

As we continue to push the boundaries of polymer science, we're constantly in need of new ideas ... Content Four-year Engineering degree required Knowledge, skills, and abilities desired: Relevant ...

Westlake

Materials Engineer

Bristol, TN

Westlake is hiring a Materials Engineer in Bristol, TN to help drive formulation innovation ... Experience with PVC extrusion processes and polymer formulation development. * Knowledge of Six ...

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All JobsPolymer Engineer JobsPolymer Engineer Jobs in Tennessee

Polymer Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$45.8K

$81.1K

$140.7K

How much do polymer engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer engineer in Tennessee is $81,077.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,500.00 and $104,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a polymer engineer do?

A Polymer Engineer specializes in the design, development, and testing of polymer materials, which include plastics, rubbers, and composites. They work on improving the properties of these materials to meet specific performance requirements for various industries such as automotive, aerospace, medical, and consumer goods. Their responsibilities often include research, product development, quality control, and troubleshooting manufacturing processes. Polymer Engineers also collaborate with chemists, material scientists, and engineers from other disciplines to create innovative products and solutions.

What does a polymer engineer do?

A polymer engineer primarily works in plastics development. In this career, you develop and test plastics or related materials. Your responsibilities include the fabrication of new polymers, working with the prototype, and designing new equipment to process these materials. You also provide support for all plastic injection molding techniques and monitor customer issues, working to resolve them quickly. You analyze and evaluate the success of each new plastic or polymer. You also research and analyze ongoing developments in the plastics field and select polymers for new applications and testing. Other duties include maintaining product improvement policies and promoting efficient lab operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a polymer engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Polymer Engineer, you need a solid background in polymer science, materials engineering, and chemistry, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Proficiency in simulation software (such as MATLAB or ANSYS), laboratory instrumentation, and familiarity with industry standards and testing protocols is crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities set candidates apart in this field. These skills are essential to innovating, ensuring product quality, and successfully collaborating on multidisciplinary projects in the development of new polymer materials and applications.

What are some typical challenges polymer engineers face when working on new material development projects?

Polymer Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing material properties to meet specific application requirements, ensuring compatibility with manufacturing processes, and addressing cost constraints. Collaborating with cross-functional teams—including chemists, product designers, and manufacturing specialists—is essential to troubleshoot issues and innovate solutions. Additionally, staying current with industry regulations and sustainability trends can add complexity, but also opens opportunities for creative problem-solving and professional growth.

What is the difference between Polymer Engineer vs Materials Scientist?

AspectPolymer EngineerMaterials Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or Materials ScienceBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science, Chemistry, or Physics
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departmentsResearch labs, academia, industry R&D
Industry UsagePlastic, rubber, polymer product manufacturingBroad industry applications including metals, ceramics, polymers

Polymer Engineers focus specifically on the development and manufacturing of polymer materials, while Materials Scientists have a broader scope, studying various materials including metals, ceramics, and polymers. Both roles often collaborate and share similar educational backgrounds, but Polymer Engineers are more specialized in polymer applications and production processes.

More about Polymer Engineer jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Polymer Engineer jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Polymer Engineer job openings:

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

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

Polymer Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Polymer Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,077 per year, or $39 per hour.

Process Engineer

Teknor Apex

Brownsville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Teknor Apex rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 84 rated plastic manufacturers

Job description

RESPONSIBLITIES:

  • Monitors the existing production process; particular attention is placed on products with a history of problems.
  • Develops new production process methods based on their application and formulation of production.
  • Works on projects to improve rates and set up standard formats for different processes.
  • Assists in establishing specific work goals and performance standards in order to reduce reject rate and minimize downtime.
  • Answers customer complaints and implements corrective action when necessary to resolve issues.
  • Responsible for production trials; spearheading the production trial team at the plant to improve the success rate at the customer.
  • Use FMEA tools as necessary.
  • Apply Leader Standard Work principles to maintain process discipline, drive continuous improvement, and support team accountability.
  • Performs additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES:

  • BS or MS in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Industrial Engineering or related discipline.
  • Good understanding of the formulation, material science and equipment involved.
  • Must be able to work in a team environment.
  • Ability to work in and support a QMS environment.
  • Knowledge in thermoplastics, polymer blends, and polymer compounding preferred
  • 1-2 years of relevant experience preferred.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel, and knowledge in or ability to quickly learn other computer applications.
  • Hold Six Sigma Green Belt certification (or commit to obtain within two years).
  • Proficiency in Root Cause Analysis (RCA) methodologies; certification preferred

Essential Physical Requirements of the Job:

  • Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards.
  • Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards
  • Able to climb ladders/stairs to reach all plant equipment.
  • Must be able to wear required safety equipment.

This description is a summary of principal responsibilities and is not intended to include all duties that may be assigned.

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