Polymer Research Engineer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

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.