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Polymer Engineering Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

University degree preferred (Chemistry, Plastics/Polymer, Engineering, Business); Master's or MBA is a plus. Extensive relevant sales experience (e.g., 20+ years) may substitute for formal education.

Process Engineer

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$70K - $104K/yr

Description Cascade Engineering is a Family of Companies that invests in our triple bottom line ... We manufacture injection molding/plastic products for automotive, office furniture, polymer ...

New

... Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) University Degree. * Approximately 10 years of experience with composite manufacturing processes. * Extensive experience with fiber-reinforced polymer composites ...

A Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) University Degree * 10 years experience with composite manufacturing processes * Fiber-reinforced polymer composites, specifically: fiberglass ...

Execute the design, analysis, or evaluation of project assemblies using sound engineering ... Experience with fiber-reinforced polymer composites, specifically: fiberglass, aramid, and/or ...

A Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) University Degree * 10 years experience with composite manufacturing processes * Fiber-reinforced polymer composites, specifically: fiberglass ...

A Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) University Degree * 10 years experience with composite manufacturing processes * Fiber-reinforced polymer composites, specifically: fiberglass ...

Execute the design, analysis, or evaluation of project assemblies using sound engineering ... Experience with fiber-reinforced polymer composites, specifically: fiberglass, aramid, and/or ...

Program Manager, Engineering

Portage, MI · On-site

$121K/yr

Chief Engineer SUMMARY The Program Manager is responsible for managerial and technical work involving the development and design of one or more components involved in a product. Manages program ...

Advanced Degree in Engineering preferred Experience Level * Senior Level - 5+ years required * 10 ... Organic/polymer matrix composites * Fiber reinforcement * Manufacturing methods * Adhesives and ...

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Polymer Engineering information

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$44K

$77.9K

$135.1K

How much do polymer engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 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 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 engineering positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and a strong track record of project management and technical expertise.

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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior 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. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-demand industries or leadership roles.

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 does a polymer engineer do?

A polymer engineer designs, develops, and tests polymer materials and products, focusing on improving their properties and performance. They work with raw materials, use computer-aided design (CAD) tools, and often collaborate with manufacturing teams to optimize production processes and ensure quality standards.

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.

Are polymer engineers in demand?

Polymer engineers are in demand due to the ongoing need for advanced materials in industries such as automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and packaging. They often require knowledge of polymer chemistry, materials testing, and manufacturing processes, with employment prospects generally stable and growing as new polymer applications emerge.
Infographic showing various Polymer Engineering job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, and 94% Full Time. Highlights an 88% In-person, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,859 per year, or $37.4 per hour.
Engineering Manager, Ground Test (Onsite)

Engineering Manager, Ground Test (Onsite)

Pratt & Whitney

Lansing, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Pratt & Whitney rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 149 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 60 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-04-29

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-MI-LANSING-PLANT 1 ~ 5640 Enterprise Dr ~ PLANT 1

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract.

Security Clearance Type:

None/Not Required

Security Clearance Status:

Not Required

At RTX, the world largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world’s most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world.

Pratt & Whitney is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines and auxiliary power systems and has been revolutionizing modern flight for over 100 years. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.

What You Will Do:

Pratt & Whitney AutoAir is excited to announce an opening for a Ground Test Engineering Manager.  This role offers a unique opportunity to work in a specialized field within engine design and operations.  P&W AutoAir’s Ground Test Division designs, manufactures and services test equipment to support development and aftermarket engine programs for all three major engine manufacturers. 

As a Ground Test Engineering Manager, you will be responsible for leading a team of Design, Structural, and Manufacturing engineers through the complete product lifecycle of an assembly.  This includes decomposing customer requirements, quoting, design development, customer approval, manufacturing, repair development, and servicing.   These designs will encompass the final assembly, all subcomponents and any support equipment necessary for the storage and handling of the assembly. 

Key Responsibilities

  • Manage a team of Employee and Contract Engineers in the design, development, production, and field issue resolution of complex aerospace engine ground testing equipment.

  • Oversee the design, analysis, and evaluation of project assemblies using sound engineering principles and adhering to industry standards, practices, procedures, and product / program requirements.

  • Oversee manufacturing process development and ensure the manufacturability of component designs, documenting and presenting results to management and external customers.  Assist shop floor personnel when needed.

  • Lead Root Cause and Corrective Action investigations into nonconforming hardware caused by the production process or customer operations.

  • Support vendor management through reviews of quotes and requests for modifications of technical requirements.

  • Contribute to Cost of Poor-Quality efforts, challenge existing processes, and drive improvements.

  • Manage the relationship with external design authorities for our products.  Engagements include design changes for process improvements or obsolescence, approval for one time repairs, resolution of fleetwide quality issues

  • Ensure compliance with established engineering methodologies

  • Use sound engineering judgment, technical expertise, and data analysis to make decisions or solve moderately complex tasks or problems.

  • Support program management by developing an engineering project plan, establishing work packages, milestones, objectives.

  • Communicate and make technical presentations to internal and external customers.

  • Mentor the engineering team

Qualifications You Must Have

  • Advanced degree and 7+ years of experience in Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, Aerospace or Aftermarket industry; OR Bachelor’s degree and 10+ years of relevant industry experience

  • 2+ years of management experience leading, mentoring, coaching, and developing team

  • 5+ years of experience with mechanical design and composite (machining, joints, fasteners, welding) in relevant industry positions (aerospace, defense, automotive or similar)

Qualifications We Prefer

  • Bachelor’s degree in STEM field; Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering preferred.

  • Experience in advanced Composite and Bonded Structures design and manufacturing (ie. Organic/Polymer Matrix Composites, Fiber Reinforcement, Manufacturing methods, Adhesives, Surface Preparation, etc.)

  • Experience with fiber-reinforced polymer composites, specifically: fiberglass, aramid, and/or carbon prepreg and wet layup (especially epoxy resin systems)

  • Familiarity with Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) techniques, such as ultrasonic testing, eddy current, FPI, camera optics, X-ray and others used in aerospace.

  • Experience with design for manufacturing & assembly, product development, make/buy analysis, manufacturing cost, and configuration management

  • Experience using MS Office Suite, SAP ERP, Solumina MES, and Computer Aided Design Software experience: Creo / Windchill (Preferred) or NX / FiberSIM / TeamCenter

  • Ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage projects effectively. PMP certification preferred.

  • Understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles, and continuous improvement tools (CORE/ACE/SixSigma, QCPC and RCCA).

  • Excellent presentation, with ability to effectively communicate with all levels of management, shop personnel and customers.

What is my Role Type?

In addition to transforming the future of flight, we are also transforming how and where we work. We’ve introduced role types to help you understand how you will operate in our blended work environment. This role is:

  • Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance workers, as they are essential to the development of our engines.

Candidates will learn more about role type and current site status throughout the recruiting process. For onsite and hybrid roles, commuting to and from the assigned site is the employee’s personal responsibility.

Learn more & apply now!

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

The salary range for this role is 132,400 USD - 251,600 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement.Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance.This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply.RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

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About Pratt & Whitney

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Pratt & Whitney has a long history of leadership and innovation in the field of aviation propulsion. Our story begins in the 1920s and has flourished throughout the decades. We have continuously transformed and reinvented our businesses to offer superior products and services to our customers. In 1925, the Pratt & Whitney Aircraft Company was founded by Frederick B. Rentschler, pioneer of the air-cooled radial engine design which enabled unprecedented power-to-weight ratio. Its first engine, the R-1340 Wasp engine, transformed military and commercial aviation and is still in use today. In 1928, the Canadian division of the Pratt & Whitney Aircraft Company was established. In 1944, Pratt & Whitney began its gas turbine and jet propulsion initiative. The company constructed a wind tunnel, laboratory and engineering center to support our allies’ efforts in World War II. In 1945, wartime production included more than 300,000 Pratt & Whitney engines, touted by service members as extremely dependable – a legacy that continues today. From there, Pratt & Whitney continued to design and innovate more powerful, agile, and reliable engines becoming a leader in the aerospace industry. Today, Pratt & Whitney has more than 85,000 engines in service and more than 16,000 customers worldwide.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

East Hartford, CT, US

Year founded

1925