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Polymer Engineering Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Aerotek

Assembler

Virginia Beach, VA

$19/hr

Assemble polymer insulator components according to detailed work instructions, drawings, and ... Be part of a global group that combines materials engineering expertise with strict quality and ...

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Polymer Engineering information

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$50.1K

$88.6K

$153.7K

How much do polymer engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 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 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 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 11% Temporary, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,563 per year, or $42.6 per hour.
Advanced Materials & Process Engineer - Composites

Advanced Materials & Process Engineer - Composites

General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc

Marion, VA • On-site

$107K - $117K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago

General Dynamics Mission Systems rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

77th of 188 rated software companies

Job description

Basic Qualifications
Requires a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, or a related Science, Engineering, Technology or Mathematics field. Also requires 5+ years of job-related experience, or a Master's degree plus 3 years of job-related experience.
CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS: Department of Defense Secret security clearance is required within a reasonable period of time. Applicants selected will be subject to a U.S. Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Due to the nature of work performed within our facilities, U.S. citizenship is required.
Responsibilities for this Position
General Dynamics Mission Systems has an immediate opening for an Advanced Materials & Process Engineer - Composites. This position provides an opportunity to further advance the cutting-edge technology that supports some of our nation's core defense/intelligence services and systems. General Dynamics Mission Systems employees work closely with esteemed customers to develop solutions that allow them to carry out high-stakes national security missions.
REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES AND TASKS:
  • Lead the development of strategic tasks or small projects by applying engineering and organizational knowledge and expertise to achieve technical goals
  • Support Production Program root cause investigations relating to materials and processes, and recommend solutions
  • Support Development Program qualification testing, including writing test plans, supporting on site testing, and writing test reports
  • Support Internal Research and Development projects
  • Understand and interpret the technical, organizational and process aspects of the tasks assigned and relate them to the technical needs of the overall project or organization
  • Plan and execute small projects or task elements within larger projects, organizations, or for groups of projects
  • Responsible for the completion of assigned engineering tasks or small projects within budgetary and scheduling guidelines
  • Actively identify technical and organizational risks and ensure that they are included in risk mitigation plans
  • Participate in the proposal process including preparation of cost estimates and technical writing
  • Participate in feasibility studies and testing of new and modified designs
  • Travel will be required (infrequent to up to 10%)

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Experience with polymer matrix composite manufacturing processes including hand lay-up/autoclave cure, adhesive bonding, and resin transfer molding (RTM)
  • Knowledge of the polymer chemistry of epoxy, bismaleimide (BMI), polyimide, and cyanate ester resins as they relate to the processing of pre-impregnated fabrics and unidirectional tapes commonly used in fiber-reinforced composite structure and adhesive systems
  • Experience with developing and writing process specifications and work instructions for composite fabrication operations
  • Experience with composites materials testing and qualification methods, both mechanical and thermal
  • Knowledge of chemical surface treatments and processes involved in both electroless plating and electroplating on non-metallic surfaces, photosensitive resist application, and metal etching in an industrial environment
  • Experience in implementing new processes, documentation, quality/process controls, and operator training
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications; detail oriented
  • Analytic and problem solving skills
  • Experience with coatings a plus
  • Identifies opportunities to apply AI for continuous improvement and innovation

Our Commitment to You:
  • An exciting career path with opportunities for continuous learning and development.
  • Research oriented work, alongside award winning teams developing practical solutions for our nation's security
  • Flexible schedules with every other Friday off work, if desired (9/80 schedule)
  • Competitive benefits, including 401k matching, flex time off, paid parental leave, healthcare benefits, health & wellness programs, employee resource and social groups, and more
  • See more at gdmissionsystems.com/careers/why-work-for-us/benefits

Workplace Options:
  • This position is 100% ON-SITE in Marion, VA.

MARION, VA area:
  • Marion is nestled in the Virginia Highlands, abounding in beautiful countryside. State parks in all directions, it is an outdoor paradise for anyone who enjoys camping, hiking, fishing, kayaking, hunting, and/or just the simple pleasure of being outside amongst natural beauty. The Appalachian Trail runs through town and Mt. Rogers is an easy daytrip.
  • Big city attractions are at a comfortable distance. Blacksburg, VA, Charlotte, NC, Knoxville, TN, and Bristol Motor Speedway are all within a two-to-three-hour drive.
  • The small size of Marion yields shortened commute times. In-town commutes average around ten to fifteen minutes. Nearby towns, such as, Abingdon and Wytheville provide increased housing options while maintaining a benign commute of less than an hour.

#LI-Hybrid
#CJ2
Salary Note
This estimate represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors (geographic location, etc.). Actual pay may vary. This job posting will remain open until the position is filled.
Combined Salary Range
USD $107,500.00 - USD $117,500.00 /Yr.
Company Overview
General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS) engineers a diverse portfolio of high technology solutions, products and services that enable customers to successfully execute missions across all domains of operation. With a global team of 12,000+ top professionals, we partner with the best in industry to expand the bounds of innovation in the defense and scientific arenas. Given the nature of our work and who we are, we value trust, honesty, alignment and transparency. We offer highly competitive benefits and pride ourselves in being a great place to work with a shared sense of purpose. You will also enjoy a flexible work environment where contributions are recognized and rewarded. If who we are and what we do resonates with you, we invite you to join our high-performance team!
Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans

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