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Polymer Engineering Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Hire Hangar

Sales Engineer

Barberton, OH · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

... Polymer Engineering, or a closely related technical field - Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with comfort working through ambiguous customer requirements to reach a clear solution ...

Apply Early

Bridgestone Americas, Inc.

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.

Hire Hangar

Technical Sales Engineer

Barberton, OH · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

... Polymer Engineering, or a related technical discipline - Solid analytical and problem-solving abilities, with the confidence to navigate unclear customer requirements toward a workable solution - A ...

Apply Early

Airswift

Polymer Research Scientist

Akron, OH · On-site

Provide scientific leadership and mentorship to junior scientists and engineers * Represent R&D in ... D. in Organic Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, or related field * 5+ years of ...

Bridgestone

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 ...

Bridgestone Americas, Inc.

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 ...

Bridgestone Americas, Inc.

Electrician

Akron, OH

$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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsPolymer Engineering JobsPolymer Engineering Jobs in Ohio

Polymer Engineering information

See Ohio salary details

$48K

$84.9K

$147.4K

How much do polymer engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Polymer Engineering jobs in Ohio? For Polymer Engineering jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Polymer Engineering jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Polymer Engineering jobs in Ohio are:
What cities in Ohio are hiring for Polymer Engineering jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Polymer Engineering job openings:
Polymer Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Polymer Engineering job openings in Ohio as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $84,925 per year, or $40.8 per hour.
Sr Research Engineer - Polymer Materials

Sr Research Engineer - Polymer Materials

James Hardie

Wilmington, OH

$120K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

James Hardie rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 36 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

154th of 527 rated manufacturers

Job description

James Hardie is the industry leader in exterior home and outdoor living solutions, with a portfolio that includes fiber cement, fiber gypsum, composite and PVC decking and railing products. Our family of trusted brands includes Hardie®, TimberTech®, AZEK® Exteriors, Versatex®, fermacell®, and StruXure®.
With over 8,000 employees and our U.S. operating entities headquartered in Chicago, we boast 31 operating sites, 6 recycling facilities, and 6 research and development centers globally. Powered by a dynamic workforce, we’re united by our purpose of Building a Better Future for All™ through sustainable innovation, a Zero Harm culture, and a commitment to empowering our people and communities.
For more information, visit www.jameshardie.com.

Summary

This position can be based at our Wilmington, OH or Fontana, CA plant

The Senior Research Engineer / Scientist – Polymer Materials will support the development, optimization, and deployment of PVC material technologies for high‑performance, durable building products. This role requires deep fundamentals in polymer science and polymer engineering, with emphasis on PVC chemistry, physics, processing, and structure–property–process relationships, bridging laboratory research and manufacturing implementation.

What You’ll Do:

Key Responsibilities

Polymer Formulation & Materials Development

Develop, optimize, and evaluate PVC formulations, including base resins, stabilizer systems, lubricants, impact modifiers, process aids, fillers, and pigments. Apply fundamental polymer science and engineering principles (polymer thermodynamics, viscoelasticity, molecular weight effects, phase behavior, and degradation mechanisms) to guide formulation design. Demonstrate strong understanding of PVC‑specific behavior, including fusion/gelation, thermal stability, shear sensitivity, rheology, and morphology development. Establish and interpret structure–property–processing relationships to balance durability, mechanical performance, surface quality, and manufacturability. Conduct laboratory‑scale compounding, extrusion, and molding to support new product, cost, and sustainability initiatives. Drive AI assisted material characterizations and formulation development. 

Process & Manufacturing Support

Support PVC extrusion and compounding processes, including formulation‑driven troubleshooting of surface defects, instability, degradation, dimensional control, and throughput limitations. Apply polymer processing fundamentals (heat transfer, shear and elongational flow, residence time, die swell, cooling, and orientation effects) to diagnose and resolve manufacturing issues. Partner with manufacturing, quality, and process engineering teams to scale laboratory formulations to robust, high‑yield production. Support pilot‑scale and plant trials. 

Testing & Characterization

Design and execute experimental plans using thermal, mechanical, rheological, and environmental characterization techniques (DSC, TGA, DMA, rheometry, weathering, impact, tensile, flexural). Interpret data using first‑principles understanding of polymer behavior and PVC material response. Maintain high standards for documentation and technical rigor. 

Project Management & Technical Communication

Plan and execute technical projects with defined scope and milestones. Communicate complex polymer concepts clearly through written reports and presentations. Collaborate with suppliers and internal stakeholders. 

What You’ll Bring:

Required Qualifications 

PhD in Polymer Science, Polymer Engineering, Materials Science, or Chemical Engineering with 0–7 years of experience, or MS with 3–10 years of experience.  

Strong fundamental knowledge of polymer chemistry and polymer engineering. Deep understanding of PVC materials including stabilization chemistry, fusion behavior, degradation mechanisms, and extrusion processing.  

Experience in AI assisted material characterizations and formulation development for composite materials. 

Strong written and verbal communication skills. 

Travel –35% (mainly domestic) 

Preferred Qualifications 

Hands‑on experience with PVC compounding, extrusion, or formulation development. Experience supporting high‑volume manufacturing or pilot‑scale operations. Familiarity with building materials and durability requirements. 

What You’ll Receive:

As of the date of this posting, a good faith estimate of the current pay scale for this position is $120,000 - $135,000.  Placement in the range depends on several factors such as experience, skills, geography and internal equity and may change over time. This position qualifies for benefits and you will be eligible to participate in a bonus plan.

At James Hardie, we recognize that our success depends on our people. We've worked hard to build a generous and competitive benefits program that demonstrates our commitment to our employees.

  • Compensation: competitive salary and bonus eligibility
  • Insurance: day-one health coverage medical, dental, vision, life insurance
  • Paid Time Off: vacation and company holidays
  • Retirement: 401(k) with 6% match
  • Investments: Employee Stock Purchase plan (ESP)
  • Work-Life Balance: parental leave, wellness programs
  • Purpose. Impact. Community: Sustainability Initiatives | James Hardie
  • More: Click here to learn more about our benefits

Build a Better Future for All - Apply now!

#LI-MB22

James Hardie Building Products Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, veteran's status, marital status, pregnancy, disability, or any other basis protected by law.
James Hardie will comply with any applicable state and local laws regarding employee leave benefits, including, but not limited to providing time off pursuant to the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, in accordance with its plans and policies.
The position responsibilities outlined above are in no way to be construed as all encompassing. Other duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may be required and/or assigned as necessary.

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