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Polymer Engineering Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Huntsman

Process Development Engineer

Mcintosh, AL · On-site

Bachelor's Degree (4 Yr) in Chemical/Polymer Engineering, or relevant discipline. Experience required * Minimum 1+ years in a laboratory, production, or process development area, preferably in a ...

Huntsman

Process Development Engineer

Mcintosh, AL

Bachelor's Degree (4 Yr) in Chemical/Polymer Engineering, or relevant discipline. Experience required * Minimum 1+ years in a laboratory, production, or process development area, preferably in a ...

AdvanSix

Technical Engineering Quality Manager

Bucks, AL · On-site

$108K - $162K/yr

Six Sigma and/or Lean certification preferred * 10+ years of experience in production, process and/or manufacturing engineering within the chemical, petroleum, or polymer industrial manufacturing ...

Tuskegee University

$45.20K - $61.40K/yr

... their polymer and fiber composites derived from natural sources. Additional responsibilities ... Essential Job Duties The Department of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) at Tuskegee ...

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How much do polymer engineering jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer engineering in Alabama is $80,967.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,400.00 and $104,200.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Polymer Engineering jobs in Alabama? For Polymer Engineering jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Polymer Engineering jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Polymer Engineering jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Polymer Engineering jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Polymer Engineering job openings:
Polymer Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Polymer Engineering job openings in Alabama as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 20% Full Time, 62% Part Time, 4% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 6% Physical, and 94% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,967 per year, or $38.9 per hour.
Polymer Synthetic Chemist

Polymer Synthetic Chemist

Hexcel Corporation

Decatur, AL

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Hexcel rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Can Chemistry Propel the Future of Aerospace?

Are you a polymer chemist who sees molecules as building blocks for innovation? Do you want your research to go beyond the lab and into the skies? If you're ready to transform your expertise into real-world impact, Hexcel’s opportunity in Decatur, Alabama is your launchpad.

We’re looking for a Polymer Synthetic Chemist to join our carbon fiber R&T team—where your discoveries will shape the future of flight, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing.

Why This Role Matters

This is more than a research position—it’s a chance to engineer the next generation of high-performance materials. You’ll be at the forefront of developing polyacrylonitrile precursor chemistry that powers carbon fiber used in aerospace, defense, and renewable energy. Your work will directly influence product performance, cost efficiency, and sustainability across global industries.

At Hexcel, your chemistry won’t just be studied—it will be scaled, spun, and flown.

What You Will Do

  • Advance Polymer Chemistry: Develop and apply synthetic routes, formulations, and characterization methods to enhance PAN precursor and carbon fiber performance.
  • Innovation: Focus on polymer development and application. Create next generation PAN.
  • Stay Technically Sharp: Monitor scientific literature and competitive trends to guide new research directions.
  • Communicate with Impact: Analyze and document experimental results, sharing insights with internal and external stakeholders.

Your Boarding Pass

To thrive in this role, you’ll need:

  • Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Polymer Science, or related field, with deep expertise in polymer synthesis and molecular design.
  • 5+ years of industrial research experience in polymer chemistry. Experience with polyacrylonitrile is highly preferred.
  • Proven ability to translate lab-scale insights into pilot and commercial-scale solutions.
  • Strong understanding of structure-property relationships and advanced analytical techniques.
  • Hands-on experimental skills and a track record of solving complex technical problems.
  • Project management experience and ability to lead and collaborate across teams.

Why Decatur, AL?

It all starts here. Decatur is more than just a manufacturing site—it’s a community of innovators that sets the stage for precision downstream processes at other Hexcel sites. Nestled along the Tennessee River, Decatur offers a blend of Southern charm, outdoor adventure, and a growing tech scene. With a lower cost of living and access to nature, it’s a place where you can build both a career and a life.  Relocation assistance available.

About Hexcel

With our strong investment in research and development and our culture of continuous improvement, Hexcel is the industry leader in the manufacturing of advanced composite materials, including carbon fiber, woven reinforcements, resins, prepregs, honeycombs, and additive manufactured parts. We invite you to join the Hexcel team at various manufacturing sites, sales offices, and R&T centers around the globe. Become a part of the “strength within.”

Eligible candidates must be a:  U.S. citizen, U.S. national, person lawfully admitted for permanent residence, temporary resident under sections 210(a) or 245(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, person admitted in refugee status, or person granted asylum. Hexcel (NYSE: HXL) is a global leader in advanced composites technology, a leading producer of carbon fiber, and the world leader in honeycomb manufacturing for the commercial aerospace industry.

Hexcel is an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected class.

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