1

Polymer Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Acts as a bridge between our scientists, engineers, customers, and operators with the world of ... years in polymer formulation development. * 5+ years in polymer manufacturing. * Superior data ...

Our Antibody Biopolymer Conjugate Drug (ABCD) platform merges the fields of protein engineering, organic chemistry, and polymer chemistry and is at the core of our discovery engine. We are seeking a ...

Our Antibody Biopolymer Conjugate Drug (ABCD) platform merges the fields of protein engineering, organic chemistry, and polymer chemistry and is at the core of our discovery engine. We are seeking a ...

Our Antibody Biopolymer Conjugate Drug (ABCD) platform merges the fields of protein engineering, organic chemistry, and polymer chemistry and is at the core of our discovery engine. We are seeking a ...

Master's degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Polymer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management; or related engineering degree. Experience ...

Showing results 21-40

Polymer Engineering information

See salary details

$50.5K

$89.3K

$155K

How much do polymer engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer engineering in the United States is $89,329.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a polymer engineer?

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 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 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.

Is polymer engineering a good career?

Polymer engineering is a viable career that involves designing and developing polymer materials used in industries such as automotive, healthcare, and packaging. It requires knowledge of materials science, chemistry, and manufacturing processes, often involving skills in testing and quality control. Job prospects are generally stable with opportunities for advancement and specialization.

What can polymer engineers do?

Polymer engineers design, develop, and test polymer materials and products used in various industries such as automotive, healthcare, and packaging. They work on improving material properties, processing techniques, and manufacturing methods, often utilizing tools like CAD software and laboratory testing. Their role involves research, problem-solving, and ensuring product quality and safety.
More about Polymer Engineering jobs

What cities are hiring for Polymer Engineering jobs?

Cities with the most Polymer Engineering job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Polymer Engineering jobs?

The most popular types of Polymer Engineering jobs are:

What states have the most Polymer Engineering jobs?

States with the most job openings for Polymer Engineering jobs include:

Infographic showing various Polymer Engineering job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,329 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

Engineer / Scientist 2 or 3 - W93 Polymer Components

Los Alamos, NM • On-site

$115.72 - $119.85/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Engineer / Scientist 2 or 3 - W93 Polymer Components (DOE/LANL)

Location: Los Alamos, NM (Onsite) Salary: $84-$87/hr Schedule: 9/80s Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship Required Clearance: Active Q Clearance preferred; ability to obtain required

WHY THIS ROLE

This is a rare opportunity to be part of the first new U.S. nuclear weapon system program in over 30 years. As an Engineer/Scientist 2 or 3 on the W93/Mk7 program at Los Alamos National Laboratory, you will serve as a Product Realization Team (PRT) Lead responsible for developing and delivering the polymer components of the W93 - a submarine-launched ballistic missile warhead program supporting the U.S. Navy.

You will work alongside colleagues at Sandia National Laboratories (SNL), Lockheed Martin Space, Kansas City National Security Campus (KCNSC), Pantex, Savannah River Site, and Y‑12, directly contributing to national security objectives that require safe, secure, and reliable nuclear deterrence.

WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Lead the planning, execution, and status reporting for product realization of the W93 polymer components
  • Interface regularly with internal LANL organizations, external production agencies, and DoD/Navy SSP and DoE/NNSA customers
  • Manage requirements and interfaces, coordinate testing, and oversee delivery of a producible, Mark Quality design and product
  • Collaborate with other PRTs and the W93 Systems Engineering Director to coordinate LANL team efforts
  • Work closely with production agency partners - KCNSC, Pantex, SRS, Y‑12, LANL, and SNL - throughout design, qualification, and realization
  • Support design, qualification, certification, assembly/production, or surveillance activities as required
  • Domestic travel required to support partner agency collaboration and program reviews
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR Required - Engineer/Scientist 2
  • Bachelor's degree in a STEM field from an accredited college or university
  • 4+ years of related experience, typically with research experience at a university, national lab, or equivalent
  • Significant knowledge and experience in one or more technical research and development disciplines
  • Demonstrated ability to develop and implement technical R&D projects including hypothesis formulation, testing, and alternative solution evaluation
  • Experience presenting results to technical audiences; strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to solve complex problems with multiple variables using new and unconventional methods when necessary
  • Knowledge of appropriate safe practices for technical work
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with nuclear weapon system design and engineering, particularly U.S. Navy systems
  • Background in nuclear weapon development, qualification, certification, assembly/production, or surveillance
  • Science or engineering degree in a chemical, polymer, or materials-based field (e.g., chemistry, materials science and engineering)
  • Demonstrated knowledge of chemical sciences and ability to evaluate scientific data from material experiments
  • Understanding of material interactions, particularly polymer aging and compatibility
  • Firm knowledge of GD&T and ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and interfaces
  • Demonstrated understanding of requirements engineering - creating, validating, and verifying requirements
  • Familiarity with DPBPS (Defense Programs Business Process System)
  • Experience with product realization from conceptual designs through to qualified production
  • Active Q Clearance or equivalent DoD clearance
MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS - READ BEFORE APPLYING
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen - required for Q Clearance eligibility, no exceptions
  • Must be able to obtain a DOE Q Clearance - subject to federal background investigation
  • Must have a Bachelor's degree in a STEM field and 4+ years of relevant R&D experience
  • Must be available 100% onsite in Los Alamos, NM - no hybrid or remote
  • Must be willing and able to travel domestically to support partner agency collaboration
#J-18808-Ljbffr