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Polymer Research Engineer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

R&D Technician

Selma, AL · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

... R&D and engineering functions as directed. * Be self-driven to meet project goals in a timely ... Working knowledge of polymer processing analysis, testing and equipment. * Demonstrated ability to ...

R&D Technician

Prattville, AL · On-site

$15.25 - $21/hr

... R&D and engineering functions as directed. * Be self-driven to meet project goals in a timely ... Working knowledge of polymer processing analysis, testing and equipment. * Demonstrated ability to ...

... R&D and engineering functions as directed. * Be self-driven to meet project goals in a timely ... Working knowledge of polymer processing analysis, testing and equipment. * Demonstrated ability to ...

... R&D and engineering functions as directed. * Be self-driven to meet project goals in a timely ... Working knowledge of polymer processing analysis, testing and equipment. * Demonstrated ability to ...

... R&D and engineering functions as directed. * Be self-driven to meet project goals in a timely ... Working knowledge of polymer processing analysis, testing and equipment. * Demonstrated ability to ...

... R&D and engineering functions as directed. * Be self-driven to meet project goals in a timely ... Working knowledge of polymer processing analysis, testing and equipment. * Demonstrated ability to ...

... R&D and engineering functions as directed. * Be self-driven to meet project goals in a timely ... Working knowledge of polymer processing analysis, testing and equipment. * Demonstrated ability to ...

Senior Process Engineer

Florence, AL · On-site

$93K - $120K/yr

Polymer/plastics experience in sheet and film (a plus) * Experience in project management in a ... The Group has close to 12,000 employees, 25 R&D centers, 8 recycling centers and 33 production ...

Senior Process Engineer

Florence, AL · On-site

$93K - $120K/yr

Polymer/plastics experience in sheet and film (a plus) * Experience in project management in a ... The Group has close to 12,000 employees, 25 R&D centers, 8 recycling centers and 33 production ...

Senior Process Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$102K - $132K/yr

Polymer/plastics experience in sheet and film (a plus) * Experience in project management in a ... The Group has close to 12,000 employees, 25 R&D centers, 8 recycling centers and 33 production ...

Senior Process Engineer

Florence, AL

$93K - $120K/yr

Polymer/plastics experience in sheet and film (a plus) * Experience in project management in a ... The Group has close to 12,000 employees, 25 R&D centers, 8 recycling centers and 33 production ...

Conduct research, experimentation, process trials, Design of Experiments (DOE), Failure Mode and ... Polymer Fiber or related discipline) required. Entry-level to 3 years of engineering, product ...

Director, CMMS

Troy, AL · On-site

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

The desired areas of expertise include Materials Chemistry, and/or Polymer Science/Engineering. The ... The primary responsibilities of this position include scientific research, leadership in research ...

... research, experimentation, process trials, Design of Experiments (DOE), Failure Mode and Effects ... Polymer Fiber or related discipline) required. • Entry-level to 3 years of engineering, product ...

Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or related field (preferred), with 5+ years in ... Proven success in scaling R&D innovations into cost-effective production. * Hands-on approach with ...

Senior Scientist

Huntsville, AL

$90K - $123K/yr

Act as the principal investigator on at least one internal research and development effort ... D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field plus two years of ...

Senior Scientist

Huntsville, AL

$90K - $123K/yr

Act as the principal investigator on at least one internal research and development effort ... D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field plus two years of ...

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Showing results 1-20

Polymer Research Engineer information

What does a polymer research engineer do?

A Polymer Research Engineer specializes in the study, development, and testing of new and existing polymer materials. They work to improve the properties of plastics, rubbers, and other polymers for various applications, such as packaging, automotive parts, or medical devices. Their responsibilities often include conducting experiments, analyzing data, and collaborating with other scientists and engineers to innovate or enhance polymer products. Additionally, they may be involved in scaling up laboratory findings to industrial production processes.

What is the difference between Polymer Research Engineer vs Polymer Development Scientist?

AspectPolymer Research EngineerPolymer Development Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Materials Science, or Chemical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Materials Science, or Chemical Engineering
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D departments, industrial settingsLaboratories, R&D departments, industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, chemical companies, research institutionsManufacturers, chemical companies, research institutions
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Polymer Research Engineer and a Polymer Development Scientist lies in their focus. Research engineers typically concentrate on developing new polymer materials and innovative processes, while development scientists focus on refining existing materials and scaling up production. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, often overlapping in industry usage and job functions.

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

To thrive as a Polymer Research Engineer, you need a solid background in polymer science, materials engineering, and analytical chemistry, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or advanced degree. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, polymer characterization techniques (such as DSC, FTIR, and GPC), and experience with software for data analysis are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills help you effectively design experiments and present findings. These competencies are crucial for developing innovative polymer materials and driving advancements in materials science.

What are the most common challenges a polymer research engineer faces when developing new polymer materials?

Polymer Research Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing material performance with cost-effectiveness, ensuring scalability from laboratory to industrial production, and meeting strict regulatory and safety standards. Additionally, they must stay updated with advances in polymer chemistry and processing technologies while collaborating closely with cross-functional teams like manufacturing, quality assurance, and product development. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication to drive innovation and achieve project goals.
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Polymer Research Engineer jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Polymer Research Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Polymer Research Engineer job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Polymer Synthetic Chemist

Hexcel Corporation

Decatur, AL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Hexcel rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Can Chemistry Propel the Future of Aerospace?

Are you a polymer chemist who sees molecules as building blocks for innovation? Do you want your research to go beyond the lab and into the skies? If you're ready to transform your expertise into real-world impact, Hexcel’s opportunity in Decatur, Alabama is your launchpad.

We’re looking for a Polymer Synthetic Chemist to join our carbon fiber R&T team—where your discoveries will shape the future of flight, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing.

Why This Role Matters

This is more than a research position—it’s a chance to engineer the next generation of high-performance materials. You’ll be at the forefront of developing polyacrylonitrile precursor chemistry that powers carbon fiber used in aerospace, defense, and renewable energy. Your work will directly influence product performance, cost efficiency, and sustainability across global industries.

At Hexcel, your chemistry won’t just be studied—it will be scaled, spun, and flown.

What You Will Do

  • Advance Polymer Chemistry: Develop and apply synthetic routes, formulations, and characterization methods to enhance PAN precursor and carbon fiber performance.
  • Innovation: Focus on polymer development and application. Create next generation PAN.
  • Stay Technically Sharp: Monitor scientific literature and competitive trends to guide new research directions.
  • Communicate with Impact: Analyze and document experimental results, sharing insights with internal and external stakeholders.

Your Boarding Pass

To thrive in this role, you’ll need:

  • Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Polymer Science, or related field, with deep expertise in polymer synthesis and molecular design.
  • 5+ years of industrial research experience in polymer chemistry. Experience with polyacrylonitrile is highly preferred.
  • Proven ability to translate lab-scale insights into pilot and commercial-scale solutions.
  • Strong understanding of structure-property relationships and advanced analytical techniques.
  • Hands-on experimental skills and a track record of solving complex technical problems.
  • Project management experience and ability to lead and collaborate across teams.

Why Decatur, AL?

It all starts here. Decatur is more than just a manufacturing site—it’s a community of innovators that sets the stage for precision downstream processes at other Hexcel sites. Nestled along the Tennessee River, Decatur offers a blend of Southern charm, outdoor adventure, and a growing tech scene. With a lower cost of living and access to nature, it’s a place where you can build both a career and a life.  Relocation assistance available.

About Hexcel

With our strong investment in research and development and our culture of continuous improvement, Hexcel is the industry leader in the manufacturing of advanced composite materials, including carbon fiber, woven reinforcements, resins, prepregs, honeycombs, and additive manufactured parts. We invite you to join the Hexcel team at various manufacturing sites, sales offices, and R&T centers around the globe. Become a part of the “strength within.”

Eligible candidates must be a:  U.S. citizen, U.S. national, person lawfully admitted for permanent residence, temporary resident under sections 210(a) or 245(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, person admitted in refugee status, or person granted asylum. Hexcel (NYSE: HXL) is a global leader in advanced composites technology, a leading producer of carbon fiber, and the world leader in honeycomb manufacturing for the commercial aerospace industry.

Hexcel is an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected class.


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