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Polymer Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Kodiak Sciences Inc.

Polymer Chemist

Palo Alto, CA

Our Antibody Biopolymer Conjugate Drug (ABCD) platform merges the fields of protein engineering, organic chemistry, and polymer chemistry and is at the core of our discovery engine. We are seeking a ...

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Polymer Engineering information

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$50.5K

$89.3K

$155K

How much do polymer engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer engineering 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 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. Familiarity with analytical instruments (such as FTIR, DSC, and rheometers), CAD software, and industry standards is often required, along with certifications like Six Sigma being advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills set outstanding professionals apart. These competencies are crucial for developing innovative polymer products, ensuring quality, and driving process improvements in manufacturing or research environments.

What are some common challenges faced by polymer engineers in product development projects?

Polymer engineers often encounter challenges such as selecting the right polymer material to meet specific performance and cost requirements, ensuring material compatibility, and addressing issues like degradation or unwanted reactions during processing. Coordinating with multidisciplinary teams—including design, manufacturing, and quality assurance—can also present hurdles, as each group may have different priorities or technical constraints. Staying current with the latest advancements in sustainable and high-performance polymers is essential, as regulations and market demands frequently evolve.

What is polymer engineering?

Polymer engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on the design, analysis, and modification of polymer materials, which are long-chain molecules used to create plastics, rubbers, and other synthetic materials. Polymer engineers work with these materials to develop new products, improve manufacturing processes, and solve problems related to material properties and performance. Their work is crucial in industries such as automotive, aerospace, packaging, electronics, and healthcare, where polymer-based materials are widely used.

What can polymer engineers do?

Polymer engineers design, develop, and test polymer materials and products used in various industries such as automotive, healthcare, and packaging. They work on improving material properties, processing techniques, and manufacturing methods, often utilizing tools like CAD software and laboratory testing. Their role involves research, problem-solving, and ensuring product quality and safety.

What is the difference between Polymer Engineering vs Materials Science?

AspectPolymer EngineeringMaterials Science
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Polymer Engineering or Chemical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science or Engineering
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, R&D labs, product developmentResearch labs, manufacturing, academia
Industry UsagePlastic, rubber, polymer product industriesBroad industries including metals, ceramics, polymers
Common Search/ComparisonPolymer Engineering careers, Polymer Engineer rolesMaterials Science careers, Materials Engineer roles

Polymer Engineering focuses specifically on the design, development, and manufacturing of polymer-based materials, often within plastics and rubber industries. Materials Science covers a broader range of materials, including metals, ceramics, and polymers, emphasizing fundamental properties and applications. While both fields share similar credentials and work environments, Polymer Engineering is more specialized in polymer products, making it the more relevant comparison for those interested in polymer-specific careers.

More about Polymer Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Polymer Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Polymer Engineering job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Polymer Engineering jobs? The most popular types of Polymer Engineering jobs are:
What states have the most Polymer Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Polymer Engineering jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Polymer Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Polymer Engineering jobs are:
Polymer Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Polymer Engineering job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,329 per year, or $42.9 per hour.
MPI Polymer Engineering Intern

MPI Polymer Engineering Intern

University of Southern Mississippi

Hattiesburg, MS • On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

University Of Southern Mississippi rating

4.4

Company rating: 4.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

526th of 532 rated colleges and universities

Job description

MPI Polymer Engineering Intern
The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of MPI Polymer Engineering Intern.
Position Details
Location
Hattiesburg
118 College Drive
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001
United States
Division
Mississipi Polymer Science Institute
Position Type
Staff
Employment Status
Full Time
Grant Funded
No
Pay Grade
Generic Grade
Posting Close Date
June 8, 2026
Special Instructions to ApplicantsApplicants must be currently authorized to work in theUnited States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. TheUniversity will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).
Job SummaryThe Mississippi Polymer Institute is seeking a hands-on, detail-oriented Polymer Engineering Intern for a 10-12 week summer program. In this role, you will bridge the gap between material science and mechanical design by developing 3D CAD models, 3D printing and assisting with polymer extrusion and injection molding processes.
This comprehensive, customizable summer internship description blends CAD modeling with polymer processing. It is tailored to attract engineering students who can help design plastic components, optimize tooling, and support/conduct production runs.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
  • Polymer Processing Support: Assist the engineering team with monitoring, setting up, and optimizing polymer extrusion and injection molding runs.
  • Process Troubleshooting: Help collect and analyze production data (e.g., cycle times, yield, scrap rates) to troubleshoot part defects and improve process stability.
  • CAD Design & Modeling: Create and modify 3D CAD models and 2D engineering drawings of plastic components, tooling, and fixtures using software like SolidWorks or Autodesk Inventor.
  • 3D Printing: Print CAD files on 3D printers for clients.
  • Material Testing: Prepare, compound, and test polymer samples to evaluate material performance and mechanical properties.
  • Documentation: Update process guides, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and bill of materials (BOMs) as production changes occur.

Minimum QualificationsCurrently pursuing a bachelor's degree in Polymer Engineering, Materials Science, Plastics Engineering, or a related field.
Foundational proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or Fusion 360).
Basic understanding of polymers, plastics processing, or manufacturing principles.
Strong problem-solving skills with a willingness to work in a hands-on production and laboratory environment.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • Proficient in Microsoft and Apple computer programs.
  • Proficient in CAD
  • Experience in 3D printing
  • Experience in Polymer extrusion and injection molding
  • Excellent professional communication skills
  • Conceptual knowledge of polymer structure and resulting performance
  • Competent in soft skills in a professional setting
  • Disciplined and dedicated

Program DetailsDuration: 10 to 12 weeks during the summer.
Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week.
Location: On-site.
About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of SouthernMississippi has remained dedicated to preparingstudents for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 studentsin Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across theMississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. Weare a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one ofthe nation's leading research institutions.
Southern Miss is known for pioneering work inpolymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringinglanguage to children with communication disorders. We are also a nationalleader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography,nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.
We produce graduates ready to enterfields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs suchas computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We're developing the next generation ofbusiness leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages byproducing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition ofexcellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nationaccredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, ourstudent-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion andpersistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.
The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.

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