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Polymer Research Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Work cross-functionally with Engineering, Production, Quality, R&D, and Supplier partners ... Polymer Science * Packaging Engineering * Other relevant Science or Engineering disciplines ...

Work cross-functionally with Engineering, Production, Quality, R&D, and Supplier partners ... Polymer Science * Packaging Engineering * Other relevant Science or Engineering disciplines ...

Materials Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site +1

$69K - $158K/yr

Research, develop, characterize, and certify materials solutions to enhance ground vehicle ... Bachelor's degree in materials engineering, materials science, metallurgical engineering, polymer ...

Materials Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$69K - $158K/yr

Research, develop, characterize, and certify materials solutions to enhance ground vehicle ... Bachelor's degree in materials engineering, materials science, metallurgical engineering, polymer ...

Materials Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$69K - $158K/yr

Research, develop, characterize, and certify materials solutions to enhance ground vehicle ... Bachelor's degree in materials engineering, materials science, metallurgical engineering, polymer ...

Create and track project R&D timelines * Responsible for creating and maintaining project budgets ... Experience in Polymer Science Packaging Development is desirable. * Knowledge of property enhancing ...

Create and track project R&D timelines * Responsible for creating and maintaining project budgets ... Experience in Polymer Science Packaging Development is desirable. * Knowledge of property enhancing ...

Create and track project R&D timelines * Responsible for creating and maintaining project budgets ... Experience in Polymer Science Packaging Development is desirable. * Knowledge of property enhancing ...

Partner with manufacturing, quality, R&D, commercial, distributors, strategic partners, and ... Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Materials Science ...

New

Quality Engineer (Manufacturing)

Vicksburg, MI · On-site

$67K - $86K/yr

JOB TITLE: Engineer, Quality (Manufacturing) FLSA STATUS: Exempt REPORTS TO: Manager, Quality ... Provides functional and technical knowledge and research in support of manufacturing operations in ...

Showing results 41-60

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Polymer Research Engineer jobs in Michigan?

For Polymer Research Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Polymer Research Engineer jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Polymer Research Engineer jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Polymer Research Engineer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Polymer Research Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Polymer Research Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution.

Associate Process Engineer

Dart Container

Mason, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Dart Container rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 88 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 121 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Associate Process Engineer (12-Month Temporary Assignment with Potential for Full-Time Hire)

Mason, MI

Are you a recent graduate or early-career engineer who is passionate about sustainability, materials science, chemistry, and product innovation? Looking for an opportunity to gain hands-on experience with real-world products used by millions every day?

We're seeking an Associate Process Engineer to join our team in Mason, MI for a 12-month temporary assignment with the potential for full-time employment. This is an exciting opportunity to work on sustainable packaging solutions, collaborate with industry experts, and develop technical expertise in testing, materials, manufacturing processes, and product development.

What You'll Do

As an Associate Process Engineer, you'll play a key role in supporting product and process development initiatives focused on sustainability and performance. You'll work closely with laboratories, suppliers, manufacturing teams, and engineers to coordinate testing programs, analyze results, and help drive innovation.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Coordinate internal and third-party laboratory testing programs
  • Manage testing activities, including physical and wet chemistry evaluations
  • Arrange, track, and follow through on testing of substrates, materials, and packaging components
  • Analyze and document test results and technical findings
  • Support sustainable product initiatives, including compostable, biodegradable, and alternative material technologies
  • Review technical data sheets and collaborate with suppliers on material performance and specifications
  • Assist with bill of material calculations and material composition analysis
  • Create and maintain testing parameters and technical documentation within SAP
  • Participate in process improvement, troubleshooting, and root cause investigations
  • Work cross-functionally with Engineering, Production, Quality, R&D, and Supplier partners
  • Document engineering changes, technical improvements, and standard operating procedures
  • Support feasibility studies and continuous improvement projects focused on quality, efficiency, and sustainability
What You'll Learn

This role provides outstanding exposure to:

Sustainable packaging technologies

Compostable and biodegradable materials

Polymers, paper products, cups, lids, and foodservice packaging

Product development and manufacturing processes

Laboratory testing and data analysis

SAP systems and engineering documentation

Supplier collaboration and technical material evaluation

Cross-functional project management

We're Looking For

Recent graduates and early-career professionals with a strong technical foundation and a desire to learn.

Preferred Degrees
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Materials Science Engineering
  • Chemistry
  • Formulation Science
  • Polymer Science
  • Packaging Engineering
  • Other relevant Science or Engineering disciplines
Preferred Qualifications
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Interest in materials, sustainability, and product development
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and coordinate activities across teams
  • Comfortable interpreting technical data and laboratory results
  • Strong communication and organizational skills
  • Experience with laboratory testing, materials characterization, or manufacturing processes is a plus
Why Join Us?

This is more than a temporary opportunity. It's a chance to gain valuable experience working on innovative and sustainable products while building relationships across engineering, manufacturing, quality, and supplier teams.

If you're eager to launch your engineering career, learn from experienced professionals, and make an impact on the future of sustainable packaging, we'd love to hear from you.

Overview: Dart makes everyday products that give people the freedom to enjoy the food & drinks they love, wherever they are. From to-go containers and dinnerware to tamper-evident food packaging and even the red SOLO cup, Dart products have been keeping people on the go and having fun for 65 years.  We're a family-owned, family-focused company of 12,000 employees united by a shared set of values and dedicated to providing exceptional customer service. Headquartered in Mason, MI, with 30 locations in three countries, we're proud of our ability to innovate, manufacture and lead the way with each new generation of quality products.

Benefits: Dart Container full-time employees enjoy great benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) with company matching contributions, paid vacation, paid holidays, short-term disability, tuition assistance, product discounts and more.

Dart Container is a drug-free workplace.  Candidates are subject to a drug test (excluding THC*/marijuana/cannabis) and background check at the time of offer.

*THC testing ONLY when such testing is required by law.
Dart Container is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all candidates for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

https://www.dartcontainer.com/eeoaa/

If you have a disability and need an accommodation to access this website or for the application process, you should call Dart at (800) 545-3278 Ext 3370 or email us at ADArequests@dart.biz. Relay calls can be made by dialing 711 or the relay number for your state.

If you experience difficulty applying online, you may call (800) 545-3278 Ext 3390 or email us at applicationassistance@dart.biz for assistance.


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