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Polymer Engineering Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Polymer Engineering/Processing * Proficient in English * Hold valid driver's license for business trips * Proficient in Excel, Word, Outlook * Customer/Client Focus * Result Driven * Business Acumen

Application Engineer

Saline, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bachelor 's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Engineering (injection molding focus), or equivalent product design experience.At least 3-5 years of experience in tooling design and/or ...

Application Engineer

Saline, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Engineering (injection molding focus), or equivalent product design experience. * At least 3-5 years of experience in tooling design and/or ...

Application Engineer

Saline, MI

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Engineering (injection molding focus), or equivalent product design experience. * At least 3-5 years of experience in tooling design and/or ...

Bachelor or advanced degrees in relevant polymer fields such as Chemical engineering, polymer engineering, chemicals, etc. highly preferred Requirements: * * 5+years of experience in material ...

Bachelor or advanced degrees in relevant polymer fields such as Chemical engineering, polymer engineering, chemicals, etc. highly preferred Requirements: 5+years of experience in material development ...

Bachelor or advanced degrees in relevant polymer fields such as Chemical engineering, polymer engineering, chemicals, etc. highly preferred Requirements: * * 5+years of experience in material ...

Bachelor or advanced degrees in relevant polymer fields such as Chemical engineering, polymer engineering, chemicals, etc. highly preferred Requirements: 5+years of experience in material development ...

Lead Sealing Technology Engineer

Rochester Hills, MI · On-site

$94K - $124K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

D. in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Polymer Engineering, or a related technical discipline * Experience with elastomer sealing systems, including silicone rubber materials, sealing ...

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Showing results 1-20

Polymer Engineering information

See Michigan salary details

$44K

$77.9K

$135.1K

How much do polymer engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer engineering in Michigan is $77,859.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,000.00 and $100,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a polymer engineer?

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.
Infographic showing various Polymer Engineering job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,859 per year, or $37.4 per hour.

Director Global Rubber Material

Cooper Standard

Northville, MI • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Cooper Standard rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

525th of 540 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job Description:

Director, Global Rubber Material

Sealing & Fluid Transfer Systems

Location: Flexible/Remote with Global Travel required

Shape the Future of Advanced Materials Innovation

At Cooper Standard, we are seeking a strategic and innovative leader to drive our global formulation and materials development strategy for our Sealing and Fluid Transfer Systems business.

As Director, Global Rubber Material, you will lead the development of next-generation rubber and polymer technologies that help power the future of mobility. You will work across engineering, manufacturing, quality, operations, and customer teams to bring innovative materials solutions from concept to commercialization while leading a global team of technical experts.

This is a highly visible leadership role with the opportunity to influence product performance, customer satisfaction, innovation strategy, and business growth on a global scale.

What You'll Do

  • Lead the global materials and formulation technology strategy for Sealing and Fluid Transfer Systems.
  • Drive innovation by developing and commercializing advanced rubber and polymer technologies.
  • Partner with cross-functional teams to successfully launch new products and materials solutions.
  • Serve as a key technical advisor for strategic customers and critical materials challenges.
  • Build strong partnerships with suppliers to identify emerging technologies and market opportunities.
  • Lead, develop, and mentor a global team of scientists, engineers, and technical leaders.
  • Advance digital and AI-enabled solutions that accelerate materials development and innovation.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, efficiency, sustainability, and cost optimization.

What We're Looking For

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, or a related technical field.
  • Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) preferred.
  • 12+ years of experience in rubber formulation, polymer development, materials engineering, or related disciplines.
  • Demonstrated success leading global technical teams and complex product development initiatives.
  • Deep understanding of rubber chemistry, material development, testing, and manufacturing processes.
  • Strong collaboration and communication skills with the ability to influence customers, suppliers, and executive stakeholders.
  • Experience within automotive, industrial, manufacturing, or related industries preferred.
  • Passion for innovation, talent development, and continuous improvement.

Why Join Cooper Standard?

  • Lead a global function with significant visibility and impact.
  • Influence the future of advanced materials technology and product innovation.
  • Work alongside talented teams across engineering, manufacturing, and commercial functions worldwide.
  • Contribute to cutting-edge materials solutions that support the future of mobility.
  • Competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.

Join us and help shape the next generation of materials innovation.

Position Type:

Regular

Additional Locations: 

Additional Information:

Cooper Standard is proud of its diverse workforce and committed to providing equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, genetic information, physical or mental disability, age, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We are dedicated to creating an environment at work that not only values diversity but also encourages inclusion and a sense of belonging. We firmly believe that a diverse workplace fosters an environment where our employees can flourish and provide superior service to our customers. Because we recognize and value the range of ways in which people acquire experiences, whether personal, professional, or via education or volunteerism, we invite interested applicants to evaluate the key duties and requirements and apply for any opportunities that fit your experience and qualifications. Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, as well as certain state and/or local laws. If you believe you require such assistance to complete our online application or to participate in an interview, you (or someone on your behalf) may request assistance by emailing recruitment@cooperstandard.com with a description of the accommodation you seek. Application materials submitted to this email address will not be considered.

Remote Status:

Hybrid

What Cooper Standard employees say

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About Cooper Standard

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cooper Standard, headquartered in Northville, Mich. USA, with locations in 21 countries, is a leading global supplier of sealing and fluid handling systems and components. Utilizing our materials science and manufacturing expertise, we create innovative and sustainable engineered solutions for diverse transportation and industrial markets. Cooper Standard's approximately 23,000 employees are at the heart of our success, continuously improving our business and surrounding communities.

Industry

Transportation equipment manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Novi, MI, US

Year founded

1960

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