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Polymer Engineering Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The Lycra Company LLC

Polymer Operator I

Waynesboro, VA · On-site

$29.78 - $32.52/hr

The LYCRA Company is seeking a Polymer Control Room & Field Operator located at our manufacturing ... Science, Engineering, Manufacturing) * Experience using Microsoft Office * Ability to wear personal ...

Klockner Pentaplast

Intern - Engineering

Rural Retreat, VA

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Polymer Processing - Lamination/ Coating * Supply Chain Management- Inventory Stock Specialist ... Mechanical or Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, and Information Technology? Or ...

Klöckner Pentaplast

Intern - Engineering

Rural Retreat, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Polymer Processing - Lamination/ Coating * Supply Chain Management- Inventory Stock Specialist ... Mechanical or Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, and Information Technology? Or ...

advansix

Sr. Process Engineer

Richmond, VA

$95K/yr

... engineering experience as a degreed engineer in industries such as: chemical, petroleum, polymer, pulp & paper or pharmaceutical * Strong commitment to process and occupational safety, and ...

advansix

Sr. Process Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$95K/yr

... engineering experience as a degreed engineer in industries such as: chemical, petroleum, polymer, pulp & paper or pharmaceutical * Strong commitment to process and occupational safety, and ...

AdvanSix

Sr. Process Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$102K - $133K/yr

... engineering experience as a degreed engineer in industries such as: chemical, petroleum, polymer, pulp & paper or pharmaceutical * Strong commitment to process and occupational safety, and ...

Dupont

Tyvek R&D Mechanical Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic, empowered R&D organization that leverages deep expertise in materials science, polymer science and engineering, chemistry, and chemical, mechanical ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsPolymer Engineering JobsPolymer Engineering Jobs in Virginia

Polymer Engineering information

See Virginia salary details

$50.1K

$88.6K

$153.7K

How much do polymer engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer engineering in Virginia is $88,563.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,400.00 and $114,000.00 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 Virginia? For Polymer Engineering jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Polymer Engineering jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Polymer Engineering jobs in Virginia are:
Polymer Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Polymer Engineering job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% Internship, 14% As Needed, 58% Full Time, and 14% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,563 per year, or $42.6 per hour.
Polymer Composites Specialist

Polymer Composites Specialist

Luna Labs USA

Blacksburg, VA

$80K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Polymer Composites Specialist
About Luna Labs
Luna Labs is a product development company working with leading organizations and key government agencies to create unique solutions for complex challenges in defense, industrial, and healthcare markets. We operate like a self-contained incubator for defense and biotech startups, taking solutions from concept through development to new products in the market. We leverage small business agility and large business capabilities to accelerate breakthrough solutions from concept to early-stage growth. Working with a robust global network of manufacturers, suppliers, licensees, and distributors, Luna Labs develops everything from small-scale prototypes to market-ready products.
The Opportunity
The Materials group is seeking a creative and goal-oriented R amp;D Polymer Composites Specialist to contribute to fast-paced research focused on the development of new materials. This position will involve managing and executing projects related to materials product development for our government and commercial customers. Current application areas include structural polymer composites, high/low temperature seals and gaskets, and chemical/biological protection. This role will support research and development with hands-on polymer formulation, composite production, and material testing using new or established methodologies. Practical experience with the fabrication of thermoset-matrix composite materials is desired. Ideal candidates will have a background in materials science with specific experience in project management, including idea generation, experimental design/execution, scheduling, budgeting, data analysis, report writing, customer presentations, coordination of internal/external collaborators, and staff mentorship.
What You'll Do
  • Manage research and development projects, including experimental design, problem solving, structure-property relationships, data summary and interpretation, report writing, and customer presentation
  • Drive technology transition from product concept and prototypes to pilot-scale production, manufacturing, and commercialization
  • Identify new technologies and match them with applications to satisfy significant customer needs
  • Participate and consult with the internal and external scientific community to maintain state-of-the-art knowledge to conduct experiments and projects
  • Mentor junior staff in project management and technology development
  • Travel to external facilities to perform testing and/or present results to potential or existing customers
  • Perform physical testing for materials characterization using in-house equipment
  • Maintain a positive environment with lab researchers emphasizing safe laboratory practices and clean workspaces
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelors, Masters, or Ph.D. degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Polymer Science, or related fields.
  • 3—6 years of experience with materials research and development
  • Experience with project management including scheduling, budgeting, and customer presentations
  • Comfortable working in a chemical laboratory setting and willing to learn outside your core area of expertise
  • Strong communication, technical writing, and analytical skills, with a commitment to quality and attention to detail
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented R amp;D environment, with a drive to move technologies from lab to product
  • Due to government contracting regulations, U.S. Citizenship is a firm requirement.
Preferred Skills
  • Experience managing and executing laboratory-based research and development projects
  • Hands-on experience with polymer composite fabrication, including hand layup, tooling development, material characterization, and knowledge of composite material structure-property relationships
  • Proficiency with engineering software such as SolidWorks for 3D CAD and 2D manufacturing prints
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams
  • Interest in understanding technical approaches within the context of end-use applications
Work Environment
  • The role involves working onsite and in a laboratory environment and interacting with technical staff.
  • Occasional travel between company locations, client sites, conferences, and related events is required.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 100lbs may be required.
  • Duties may occasionally be completed remotely using secure company equipment and software, at the supervisor's discretion.
What We Offer
  • Salary Range: $80,000 -- $85,000 annually depending on experience
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Opportunities for professional development and continued education
  • Collaborative, innovation-focused work culture
Luna Labs USA logo

About Luna Labs USA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

2022

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