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Polymer Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hexcel Corporation

R&D Polymer Chemist

Amesbury, MA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Qualifications * BS/MS/PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering or other equivalent technical degree * 5+ years of polymer modification and development experience OR a ...

Hexcel Corporation

R&D Polymer Chemist

Amesbury, MA

$120K - $160K/yr

Qualifications * BS/MS/PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering or other equivalent technical degree * 5+ years of polymer modification and development experience OR a ...

ENTEK

Polymer Scientist

Lebanon, OR · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Collaborates with Engineering, Process Technologist, and Quality Manager to solve process problems ... Strong background in porous materials and polymer science Critical technical, professional, and ...

Apple

Coating Materials Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

Our Materials Engineering Product Design team is dedicated to creating and optimizing polymer materials. We influence and enable innovative designs across all Apple product lines year after year. We ...

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Polymer Engineer information

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$50.5K

$89.3K

$155K

How much do polymer engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer engineer in the United States is $89,329.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $115,000.00 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 are popular job titles related to Polymer Engineer jobs? For Polymer Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Polymer Engineer jobs near you

Chemist - POLYMER CHEMIST COMPOSITES, POLYURETHANE, RESINS

RS Utility Structures Inc

Humble, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

ABOUT RS RS is a global leader in composite utility poles, advanced materials, and energy infrastructure solutions. We design and manufacture high-performance, lightweight, and durable composite structures that outperform wood, steel, and concretes supporting a more resilient and sustainable power grid across North America and 30+ countries.
POSITION: POLYMER CHEMIST | COMPOSITES | POLYURETHANE RESINS
We are seeking a Polymer Chemist with experience in thermoset resins, FRP composites, and manufacturing environments to join our Technical Development & R&D team. This role focuses on polyurethane formulation, material characterization, process optimization, and product development for advanced composite applications.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Develop and optimize polyurethane and thermoset resin systems
  • Conduct polymer formulation, testing, and material characterization (DSC, FTIR, DMA, titration)
  • Support composite manufacturing processes (pultrusion, filament winding, RTM, injection molding, vacuum infusion)
  • Apply Design of Experiments (DOE) and statistical analysis for process improvement
  • Perform root cause analysis and troubleshoot production and quality issues
  • Collaborate with R&D, Quality, and Manufacturing teams
  • Evaluate and qualify raw materials, equipment, and processes
  • Maintain technical documentation and reports
  • Support sustainability initiatives, low-carbon materials, and recycling efforts

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's or higher in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or Materials Science
  • 5-10 years of experience with thermoset resins, polyurethane systems, or FRP composites
  • Hands-on experience in composite manufacturing environments
  • Strong knowledge of polymer testing, mechanical testing, and material properties
  • Experience with DOE, data analysis, and process optimization
  • Proven ability in troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement
  • Strong technical writing and communication skills

PREFERRED / PLUS SKILLS
  • Experience with coatings, color science, or fire performance testing
  • Knowledge of sustainability, regulatory compliance, and advanced materials development

WHY JOIN RS?
  • Work in advanced materials, composites, and polymer innovation
  • Direct impact on energy infrastructure and grid resilience
  • Competitive compensation + bonus + full benefits package
  • Career growth in a global, technology-driven organization

Apply