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Polymer Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The Lycra Company LLC

Polymer Operator I

Waynesboro, VA · On-site

$29.78 - $32.52/hr

The LYCRA Company is seeking a Polymer Control Room & Field Operator located at our manufacturing ... Science, Engineering, Manufacturing) * Experience using Microsoft Office * Ability to wear personal ...

advansix

Sr. Process Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$95K/yr

The Senior Process Engineer interacts with the plant teams, business groups and R&D to identify and ... Polymer/resin processing experience preferred * Six Sigma certification and/or experience in using ...

advansix

Sr. Process Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$95K/yr

The Senior Process Engineer interacts with the plant teams, business groups and R&D to identify and ... Polymer/resin processing experience preferred * Six Sigma certification and/or experience in using ...

AdvanSix

Sr. Process Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$102K - $133K/yr

The Senior Process Engineer interacts with the plant teams, business groups and R&D to identify and ... Polymer/resin processing experience preferred * Six Sigma certification and/or experience in using ...

Klöckner Pentaplast

Intern - Engineering

Rural Retreat, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Polymer Processing - Lamination/ Coating * Supply Chain Management- Inventory Stock Specialist ... Mechanical or Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, and Information Technology? Or ...

Klockner Pentaplast

Intern - Engineering

Rural Retreat, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Polymer Processing - Lamination/ Coating * Supply Chain Management- Inventory Stock Specialist ... Mechanical or Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, and Information Technology? Or ...

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All JobsPolymer Engineer JobsPolymer Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Polymer Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$50.1K

$88.6K

$153.7K

How much do polymer engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer engineer in Virginia is $88,563.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,400.00 and $114,000.00 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 is the job of a polymer engineer?

A polymer engineer designs, develops, and tests polymer materials and products, focusing on improving their properties and performance. They work with chemical processes, use specialized tools, and often require knowledge of material science and manufacturing techniques to create innovative plastic and rubber solutions.

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 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 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 is a Polymer Engineering salary?

The average salary for a Polymer Engineer typically ranges from $70,000 to $110,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. Salary also varies based on industry sector and company size.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-level positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and a track record of significant project management or innovation.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Senior roles requiring advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities tend to have the highest compensation levels.

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
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What job categories do people searching Polymer Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Polymer Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Polymer Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Polymer Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Polymer Engineer jobs in VA? For Polymer Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Polymer Engineer jobs near you
Polymer Operator I

Polymer Operator I

The Lycra Company LLC

Waynesboro, VA • On-site

$29.78 - $32.52/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

The LYCRA Company is a premier supplier of differentiated fiber products from a global manufacturing base with assets in Europe, USA, Mexico, Brazil, China, and Singapore.

Our Apparel business works with leading consumer brands, retailers, and fabric mills all over the world to leverage our innovative ingredient brand fibers including LYCRA® fiber, COOLMAX® fabric, THERMOLITE® fabric, SUPPLEX® fabric and TACTEL® fiber. The LYCRA Company is a leading supplier in the global apparel markets including ready-to-wear, intimate apparel, swimwear, activewear, outdoor and career apparel.

The LYCRA Company is seeking a Polymer Control Room & Field Operator located at our manufacturing plant in Waynesboro, Virginia. The selected candidate must be available for daytime training and, once trained, to work nights (6pm-6am) including weekends and holidays if scheduled.

The position will report to the Polymer Operations Group Leader.

Job Summary:

  • Operate multiple production lines from a control room using a DCS to adjust rate/mode, operate remote equipment, trend process conditions, and make corrections to the process.
  • Make batches of product using powder and liquid ingredients, following a specific recipe
  • Operate valves, pumps, troubleshoot equipment, and complete field rounds
  • Oversee the sampling and continuous release of product
  • Uses troubleshooting skills to solve problems, while seeking best knowledge to ensure safety and compliance.
  • Lockout/Tag out and Safe Work Permit writing

Qualifications (Required):

  • 1+ years of control room experience
  • Or; 2+ year machine operator experience
  • Or; Associates Degree or higher in a technical field (IE. Science, Engineering, Manufacturing)
  • Experience using Microsoft Office
  • Ability to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) as required by the operating area, including but not limited to safety glasses, protective footwear, hearing protection. Must remain clean-shaven to wear a half-face or full-face respirator with supplied air.
  • Pass a physical abilities test
  • Ability to:
    • Lift/Carry up to 10 pounds frequently and Lift/Carry up to 50 pounds occasionally
    • Push/Pull up to 20 pounds frequently
    • Climb Stairs
    • Frequently Bend/Stoop, reach above and below shoulder level, and occasionally climb ladders
    • Occasionally work on or with moving machinery
    • Ability to work overtime

Qualifications (Preferred):

  • Experience working in a manufacturing environment
  • 3+ Years of Control Room Experience
  • Experience working with manufacturing equipment, DCS, pumps, manual and automatic valves, heat exchangers, and process flows
  • Strong observation and Critical Thinking Skills
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate with verbal and written communications

We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.