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Polymer Processing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The company's proprietary electro-swing process, developed at MIT, enables carbon dioxide and other ... Verdox seeks a Polymer Chemist to join our R&D team. Key Responsibilities * Design and synthesize ...

We are seeking a Polymer Chemist to join our Polymer Sciences Team, Department of Chemistry. The ... Support tech and process transfer of leading polymeric materials to development and CMC teams.

We are seeking a Polymer Chemist to join our Polymer Sciences Team, Department of Chemistry. The ... Support tech and process transfer of leading polymeric materials to development and CMC teams.

Do you want accountability for all aspects of material performance including overall design, material optimization and material processing for all polymer and textile technology within the ...

We are seeking a Polymer Chemist to join our Polymer Sciences Team, Department of Chemistry. The ... Support tech and process transfer of leading polymeric materials to development and CMC teams.

Process Engineer

Morristown, TN · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Polymer and polymer processing knowledge * Willing to travel occasionally as needed #ZR Benefits * 100% company-paid health, dental, and vision insurance * 401(k) retirement savings plan * Paid time ...

Polymer and polymer processing knowledge * Willing to travel occasionally as needed #ZR Benefits * 100% company-paid health, dental, and vision insurance * 401(k) retirement savings plan * Paid time ...

Polymer and polymer processing knowledge * Willing to travel occasionally as needed #ZR Benefits * 100% company-paid health, dental, and vision insurance * 401(k) retirement savings plan * Paid time ...

Process Engineer

Morristown, TN · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Polymer and polymer processing knowledge * Willing to travel occasionally as needed #ZR Benefits * 100% company-paid health, dental, and vision insurance * 401(k) retirement savings plan * Paid time ...

Showing results 41-60

Polymer Processing information

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How much do polymer processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for polymer processing in the United States is $23.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a polymer processing?

Polymer processing involves transforming raw polymer materials into finished products through techniques such as extrusion, injection molding, blow molding, and casting. It requires understanding material properties, equipment operation, and quality control to produce items like plastic parts, packaging, and automotive components efficiently and safely.

What is the difference between Polymer Processing vs Polymer Technician?

AspectPolymer ProcessingPolymer Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, production linesManufacturing facilities, quality control labs
Industry UsageUsed broadly in plastics manufacturing and processingFocuses on operating and maintaining processing equipment
Job FocusOverseeing polymer shaping, molding, extrusion processesMonitoring equipment, troubleshooting, quality checks

Polymer Processing involves managing the entire manufacturing process of polymers, including shaping and molding, while Polymer Technicians focus on operating and maintaining processing equipment to ensure quality and efficiency. Both roles are essential in plastics manufacturing but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in polymer processing?

To excel in Polymer Processing, a solid understanding of polymer science, material properties, and manufacturing processes is essential, typically supported by a degree in chemical engineering or materials science. Familiarity with extrusion, injection molding, CAD software, and quality control systems is commonly required, along with industry-specific certifications like Six Sigma or ISO standards. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork help professionals innovate and resolve production challenges. These skills ensure efficient production, high-quality polymers, and the ability to adapt to evolving industry demands.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in polymer processing roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in polymer processing often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, managing process variability, and troubleshooting equipment issues. Addressing these requires a strong understanding of material properties, process parameters, and quality control methods. Collaborative problem-solving with engineering, quality assurance, and maintenance teams is essential, as is staying current with advancements in processing technology. Ongoing training and hands-on experience help professionals adapt to evolving industry standards and improve process efficiency.
More about Polymer Processing jobs
What states have the most Polymer Processing jobs? States with the most job openings for Polymer Processing jobs include:
Infographic showing various Polymer Processing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,979 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Sr Research Engineer - Polymer Materials

James Hardie

Fontana, CA • On-site

$120K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


James Hardie rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 537 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 highperformance, 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 PVCspecific 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 laboratoryscale 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 formulationdriven 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, highyield production. Support pilotscale 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 firstprinciples 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 

Handson experience with PVC compounding, extrusion, or formulation development. Experience supporting highvolume manufacturing or pilotscale 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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