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Polymer Engineering Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Fall 2026 Co-Op

Akron, OH · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

During rotational periods (4,5 months each) you will have a chance to work on meaningful projects within the Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Mechatronics, and Chemical Engineering fields.

Company Overview Polymer Engineering Pilot Center (PEPC) . PEPC provides advanced research and testing technologies for product and process development, continuing to leverage Firestone's rich ...

Electrician

Akron, OH · On-site

$38.99/hr

Company Overview Polymer Engineering Pilot Center (PEPC) . PEPC provides advanced research and testing technologies for product and process development, continuing to leverage Firestone's rich ...

Company Overview Polymer Engineering Pilot Center (PEPC) . PEPC provides advanced research and testing technologies for product and process development, continuing to leverage Firestone's rich ...

Company Overview Polymer Engineering Pilot Center (PEPC) . PEPC provides advanced research and testing technologies for product and process development, continuing to leverage Firestone's rich ...

Company Overview Polymer Engineering Pilot Center (PEPC) . PEPC provides advanced research and testing technologies for product and process development, continuing to leverage Firestone's rich ...

Come Join an Inclusive Team The PhD Polymer Characterization Researcher (Engineer or appropriately skilled Polymer Chemist) will be part of a team of researchers supporting an analytical and physical ...

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Showing results 1-20

Polymer Engineering information

See Ohio salary details

$48K

$84.9K

$147.4K

How much do polymer engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer engineering in Ohio is $84,925.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $109,300.00 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.
What cities in Ohio are hiring for Polymer Engineering jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Polymer Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Polymer Engineering job openings in Ohio as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Internship, 80% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $84,925 per year, or $40.8 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 13 hours ago


Job description

EWI is a world leader in developing and deploying new technologies that enable companies to bridge the gap between R&D and manufacturing implementation.  EWI associates are passionate about identifying out-of-the-box options that provide a long-term competitive advantage for our clients.  Our clients tell us we are a valuable extension and complement to their innovation, engineering, and manufacturing teams. If you enjoy dealing with customers and solving difficult, technical problems, EWI is the place for you.

We are seeking a highly motivated chemical engineer to join our dynamic Polymers team. This is a unique opportunity to apply your deep knowledge of polymers, gained within the petrochemical or oil and gas industry, to a wide variety of fast-paced, client-driven R&D projects.

You will be a key technical contributor, responsible for everything from material selection and characterization to failure analysis and the development of innovative joining techniques. If you are a hands-on problem-solver who enjoys tackling diverse technical challenges and directly impacting product development, we want to hear from you.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Lead Technical Projects & Solve Complex Problems: You will lead applied research projects by identifying and analyzing client problems, logically processing data, and collaborating with project managers and multidisciplinary teams to execute results. This includes designing experimental plans for polymer analysis (DSC, TGA, FTIR, DMA), conducting root-cause failure analysis, and leveraging your deep understanding of polymer joining methods and associated equipment
  • Drive Client Engagement & Growth: Act as a key technical contact for our clients. You'll engage directly with customers to lead conversations and deeply understand their requirements, build strong working relationships to ensure satisfaction, and proactively develop new project opportunities through inquiries and follow-up interactions
  • Communicate with Impact: You will be responsible for writing clear, concise, and accurate technical reports, proposals, and project documents. A key part of your role will be effectively delivering oral presentations meant to inform and persuade both internal teams and external clients
  • Contribute to Innovation & Professional Growth: Actively seek out educational and training opportunities to demonstrate continuous growth and stay current. You will offer strategic input on the focus of our internal R&D (IRD) funding and may develop proposals for new technology development

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

  • Demonstrated knowledge and experience in polymer material selection and joining methods for challenging service conditions (high pressure, high temperature, sour service, subsea, etc.)
  • Strong practical knowledge of standard polymer characterization and mechanical testing methods
  • Working knowledge of relevant industry standards (e.g., API, NACE, NORSOK, ASME, DNV)
  • Demonstrated knowledge and experience working with high-performance thermoplastics (e.g., PEEK, PPS), fluoropolymers, elastomers, and/or composites
  • Knowledge of polymer processing techniques such as injection molding or extrusion
  • Proficiency in executing scientific research and performing experimental analysis
  • Existing understanding of technical challenges in key markets including, but not limited to, oil and gas, petrochemical, energy, and other related industries
  • Utilizes judgment in communication styles and behaviors; recognizes impact on other team members
  • Exhibits proficient written and verbal communication with customers both internal and external
  • Analyzes and understands impact of individual contribution to project financial performance
  • Proven adaptability and flexibility as a part of team
  • Ability to maintain excellent customer relationships both internal and external
  • Proven success in a team-oriented environment
  • Strong ability to plan and organize tasks
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office software
  • Willingness to travel (10%) to customers and conferences

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Office environment and laboratory/light production floor with ventilation, climate-control system, moderate lighting, and moderate noise level;
  • Use finger and hand dexterity to type, adjust, move, handle, perform, operate, install, attach, remove, apply, grasp, grip, manipulate, and measure;
  • Use vision to see, analyze, and adjust;
  • Frequently move, transport, rotate, reach, pull, twist, adjust position, push, stand, stoop, bend and crouch; and
  • Lift ten to 20 pounds on a frequent basis and 40 to 80 pounds occasionally

EDUCATION:

  • B.S. in Chemical Engineering or closely related field
  • M.S. or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science Engineering is preferred

EXPERIENCE:

  • Three (3) or more years of relevant, hands-on experience in a polymer engineering role within the petrochemical, oil and gas, energy, or a directly related industry
  • Experience in a client facing or project management role

EOE/M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status

EXPORT CONTROLS - This position requires access to information and technology that is subject to U.S. export controls.  To conform to U.S. export control regulations, applicant should be eligible for any required authorizations from the U.S. Government.

Accommodations

Individuals who need reasonable accommodations under the ADA in order to participate in the search and/or application process should contact Human Resources at (614) 688-5000.