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Polymer Research Engineer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Technical Development Engineer - Acrylic Polymer & Profiles REPORTS TO: General Manager of Acrylic ... Ability to collaborate effectively with sales, manufacturing, engineering, and R&D teams * Strong ...

... research concepts and preliminary results into proposals for federal, state, and industrial ... D. or Doctor of Science in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a closely related ...

Lead troubleshooting and support scale‑up/transfer of new or modified formulations from R&D into ... Working knowledge of polymer materials, processing fundamentals, and extrusion technology.

Manufacturing Process Engineer

Ravenna, OH · On-site

$67K - $89K/yr

Lead troubleshooting and support scaleup/transfer of new or modified formulations from R&D into ... Polymer compounding Extrusion (twin-screw strongly preferred) Injection or compression molding ...

Manufacturing Process Engineer

Ravenna, OH · On-site

$67K - $89K/yr

Lead troubleshooting and support scale-up/transfer of new or modified formulations from R&D into ... Polymer compounding * Extrusion (twin-screw strongly preferred) * Injection or compression molding

Synthesize, functionalize, and evaluate polymer materials to support the development of new ... Collaborate with cross-functional teams of scientists and engineers to achieve project objectives ...

Manufacturing Process Engineer

Akron, OH · On-site

$70K - $93K/yr

Lead troubleshooting and support scaleup/transfer of new or modified formulations from R&D into ... Polymer compounding Extrusion (twin-screw strongly preferred) Injection or compression molding ...

Senior Scientist

Circleville, OH

$85K - $116K/yr

Interact with laboratory scientists, engineers, technicians, pilot operations team and full-scale ... polymer applications * Record of peer-reviewed publications, patents, or translational research #LI ...

Senior Scientist

Circleville, OH · On-site

$85K - $116K/yr

Interact with laboratory scientists, engineers, technicians, pilot operations team and full-scale ... polymer applications * Record of peer-reviewed publications, patents, or translational research #LI ...

... other R&D groups, as well as the Industrial Market Manager and Sales. This expertise includes ... Polymer Science & Engineering or Chemistry plus 8-10 or more years' experience with polyolefin ...

... other R&D groups, as well as the Industrial Market Manager and Sales. This expertise includes ... Polymer Science & Engineering or Chemistry plus 8-10 or more years' experience with polyolefin ...

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 Ohio?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Polymer Research Engineer job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Technical Development Engineer

Plaskolite

Columbus, OH • On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Plaskolite rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 84 rated plastic manufacturers


Job description

JOB TITLE: Technical Development Engineer - Acrylic Polymer & Profiles
REPORTS TO: General Manager of Acrylic Polymer & Profile Sales
DEPARTMENT: Commercial
LOCATION: Corporate HQ or Remote
PAY RANGE: $110,000-$160,000 USD annually (will be based on experience, skills, and qualifications)
PAY/WAGE TYPE: Salaried | Exempt
WORK HOURS: Full-time
JOB SUMMARY
The Technical Development Engineer - Acrylic Polymers & Profiles provides technical sales and application support to customers and field sales representatives within the Polymer Division. This role serves as a key technical resource for acrylic polymer applications, supporting customer processing trials, product evaluations, troubleshooting, and new business development activities.
The position works closely with customers, sales, manufacturing, and technical teams to support extrusion and injection molding applications utilizing acrylic polymer products. Responsibilities include participating in processing trials, assisting with product recommendations, supporting application development, and helping resolve technical and processing-related challenges to improve customer success and drive business growth.
This position requires attention to detail, the ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, good communication and organizational skills and a strong commitment to safety, teamwork, and quality-reflecting Plaskolite's core values of Integrity and Improvement.
ESSENTIAL TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Troubleshoot processing, product performance, and manufacturing-related issues involving acrylic polymers
  • Provide technical support to polymer sales representatives and customers for acrylic polymer applications and optimized processing
  • Support extrusion and injection molding trials at customer and manufacturing locations
  • Assist customers with material selection, processing recommendations, and application development
  • Work closely with sales, manufacturing, engineering, and technical teams to support customer projects and business growth
  • Participate in new product evaluations, customer qualifications, and commercialization activities
  • Analyze customer applications, processing conditions, and performance requirements to recommend appropriate solutions
  • Assist with the development and maintenance of technical documentation, trial reports, and application data
  • Support customer visits, technical presentations, and product demonstrations as needed
  • Monitor and communicate market, application, and competitive trends to commercial and technical leadership
  • Maintain regular communication with customers regarding trial progress, technical issues, and project status
  • Travel to customer sites, manufacturing facilities, and industry events as required to support business objectives
  • All other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree in Polymer Engineering, Plastics Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field preferred
  • Equivalent combination of technical education and relevant industry experience may be considered
  • 3-7 years of experience in plastics, polymers, extrusion, injection molding, or related manufacturing environments
  • Experience supporting or participating in extrusion and/or injection molding processing trials
  • Familiarity with acrylic polymers (PMMA) or similar thermoplastic materials preferred
  • Customer-facing technical support or technical sales experience preferred
  • Understanding of polymer processing parameters, tooling considerations, and product performance characteristics
  • Experience troubleshooting processing or application-related issues in a manufacturing environment
  • Ability to work cross-functionally with sales, manufacturing, engineering, and customers
  • Willingness and ability to travel to customer sites, processing facilities, and manufacturing locations as needed
  • Technical training or hands-on experience in plastics processing, extrusion, or injection molding strongly preferred

Skills and Competencies:
  • Strong understanding of polymer processing principles, including extrusion and injection molding
  • Ability to support and troubleshoot customer processing trials and application challenges
  • Strong technical problem-solving and analytical skills
  • Ability to communicate technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences
  • Customer-focused mindset with strong relationship-building skills
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with sales, manufacturing, engineering, and R&D teams
  • Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
  • Working knowledge of processing equipment, tooling, and material performance characteristics
  • Self-motivated and adaptable in a fast-paced, customer-driven environment
  • Proficiency with standard business software and technical reporting/documentation

AVAILABLE BENEFITS
  • Sign-On Bonus
  • Health Insurance
  • 401(k) and Employer Contribution
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Voluntary Life Insurance

ABOUT PLASKOLITE
PLASKOLITE is a global leader in manufacturing of engineering thermoplastics, including Acrylic, Polycarbonate, ABS, Olefin and PETG Sheet, Extruded Profiles and PMMA Polymers. Founded in 1950, by Donald Dunn and family, PLASKOLITE has a reputation for providing the highest quality products in the industry. Our innovative thermoplastic solutions are used in a wide variety of applications, including glazing, safety shields, lighting, signs and point-of-purchase displays. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, with manufacturing facilities throughout North America and Europe, Plaskolite delivers superior thermoplastic sheet, profiles, and polymers to the world through long-lasting customer relationships and hands-on customer service.
PLASKOLITE is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to qualified individuals with disabilities. If requested, the Company will provide reasonable accommodation to otherwise qualified individuals where appropriate to allow the ++individual to perform the essential functions of the job, so long as doing so does not create an undue hardship on the business.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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