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Polymer Research Engineer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Lab Technician- II

Moundsview, MN · On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Information Technology (IT), Clinical Research, Rehabilitation Therapy and Nursing. Duration: 12 ... engineers, including fatigue, optical microscopy, polymer analysis and sample preparation.

Sr. Data Engineer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$115K - $145K/yr

... polymer solutions used across a wide range of industrial applications ... Our operating companies, Interplastic Corporation, North American Composites, HK Research, and ...

Coatings Chemist

Chaska, MN · On-site

$61K - $90K/yr

... Engineering teams to support commercial production Research & Development - Production Support ... Optimize polymer chemistry operations (mixing, dispersion, curing, coating, drying, cleaning) for ...

Mechanical Engineering or highly related field * 3+years ofexperience in anengineeringor R&D ... science, polymer science, general lab practices/safety, statistical data analysis, shock and ...

The technician must work proficiently to deliver on or ahead of schedule. * Assist the engineering ... As we continue to push the boundaries of polymer science, we're constantly in need of new ideas ...

The technician must work proficiently to deliver on or ahead of schedule. * Assist the engineering ... As we continue to push the boundaries of polymer science, we're constantly in need of new ideas ...

Mechanical Engineering or highly related field * 3+ years of experience in an engineering or R&D ... science, polymer science, general lab practices/safety, statistical data analysis, shock and ...

Senior Mechanical Test Engineer

Chaska, MN · On-site

$86.50 - $110.80/hr

Mechanical Engineering or highly related field* 3+ years of experience in an engineering or R&D ... science, polymer science, general lab practices/safety, statistical data analysis, shock and ...

Advanced Product Engineer

Maplewood, MN · On-site

$98K - $120K/yr

... Polymer, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution. * Five (5) years of product engineering, process engineering, project engineering, project management, and/or research ...

Advanced Product Engineer

Maplewood, MN · On-site

$98K - $120K/yr

... Polymer, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution. * Five (5) years of product engineering, process engineering, project engineering, project management, and/or research ...

Sr. Product Engineer

Maplewood, MN · On-site

$124K - $151K/yr

... Polymer Science, Chemistry, Physics, or related discipline from an accredited institution ... Advanced knowledge and understanding in tape and/or adhesive manufacturing or research and ...

Sr. Product Engineer

Maplewood, MN · On-site

$124K - $151K/yr

... Polymer Science, Chemistry, Physics, or related discipline from an accredited institution ... Advanced knowledge and understanding in tape and/or adhesive manufacturing or research and ...

... Polymer, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution. * Five (5) years of product engineering, process engineering, project engineering, project management, and/or research ...

... Polymer, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution. * Five (5) years of product engineering, process engineering, project engineering, project management, and/or research ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Minnesota?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Polymer Research Engineer job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Post-Doctoral Associate

University of Minnesota

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$62K - $75K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

About the Job
 

Job duties/responsibilities

Post-doctoral Associate positions will become available in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science at the University of Minnesota- Twin Cities during the current fiscal year to conduct grant supposed research in all areas of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science. Start date, salary and term of appointment will vary according to the time and duration of grants and contracts. Appointments may range from part-time to full-time.
The post-doctoral associate conducts research or service that provides further development of career skills or allows them opportunities to learn new research techniques. They are trained by and work in conjunction with a faculty mentor who determines the training agenda. Post-doctoral associates may supervise research assistants and laboratory personnel.
This is continuous posting that will be open until July 1, 2027
This individual will do laboratory research, prepare summaries of research in written and oral form, coordinate the research project with PIs
60% in lab research; 30% summarizing research in written and oral form; 10% coordinating project

Qualifications
 

Required qualifications: PhD in chemistry, engineering, polymer science and engineering or related field

Preferred qualifications: Experience in polymer science and engineering research
 

About the Department
 

This position is in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science in the College of Science and Engineering on the East Bank Campus of the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. For more information on CEMS please visit our website: https://cse.umn.edu/cems

Pay and Benefits
 

Pay Range: $62,232- $75,000 per year; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

  • Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
  • Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
  • Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
  • Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
  • University HSA contributions
  • Disability and employer-paid life insurance
  • Employee wellbeing program
  • Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
  • Financial counseling services 
  • Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
  • Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

How To Apply
 

Applications must be submitted online.  To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions.  You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Diversity
 

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the U:  http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements
 

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About University of Minnesota
 

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.