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Polymer Research Engineer Jobs in Boca Raton, FL

Polymer Research Engineer information

See Boca Raton, FL salary details

$35.1K

$100.6K

$135.2K

How much do polymer research engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer research engineer in Boca Raton, FL is $100,602.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,700.00 and $98,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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, and why are they important?

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 job categories do people searching Polymer Research Engineer jobs in Boca Raton, FL look for? The top searched job categories for Polymer Research Engineer jobs in Boca Raton, FL are:
What cities near Boca Raton, FL are hiring for Polymer Research Engineer jobs? Cities near Boca Raton, FL with the most Polymer Research Engineer job openings:
Research Scientist - Roofing and Waterproofing Products

Research Scientist - Roofing and Waterproofing Products

Polyglass

Deerfield Beach, FL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description


Position Summary: This position will be responsible for the development of new roofing and waterproofing products for residential and commercial applications. He/She will be responsible for development of new products, improvement of existing products, advance laboratory testing, competitive analysis as well as value engineering initiatives intended for existing product lines. Position reports directly to the Principal Scientist or Manager of R&D and may supervise other scientists and research technicians.
Responsibilities:
  • Work independently, manage research projects and work in teams towards executing the initiatives of the Manager of R&D and the research team
  • Generate ideas that will enhance existing products and lead to the development of new products, test procedures and protocols.
  • Develop investigative work resolving associated technical issues on products and projects
  • Use sound scientific principles such as statistical analysis, material science, rheology and solid mechanics.
  • Cross-functional interaction with Product Management, Operations, Supply Chain, Engineering, Marketing, Technical Services and external vendors
  • Design and conduct hands on experimentation using standard test methods and advanced analytical equipment
  • Manage multiple short and long-term projects
  • Use advanced material characterization techniques to establish structure property relationships of materials and final product performance
  • Execute plant trials by transferring technology from small scale lab models to large scale plant production. Conduct and design testing internally and externally adhering to regional and third-party code agencies and guidelines.
  • Work closely with partner companies and key raw material suppliers to advance the development of products or processes.
  • Represent Polyglass USA at key industry meetings and technical conferences.
  • Manage technical business support for current products including raw material qualification, benchmarking of competitive materials and product/system testing internally and at external laboratories.
  • Publish reports and conduct technical presentations at regular intervals on key projects.
  • Advance the technology in building products & systems to improve performance, reduce total installed cost and established sustained competitive advantage.
  • Assist in training new R&D scientists and technicians as needed and as directed by the Manager of R&D.
  • Promotes health, safety and environmental regulations by ensuring that standards, policies, and procedures are adhered to in compliance with corporate, federal, state, and local requirements.
  • Performs other duties as required for the success of Polyglass USA, Inc.

Requirements:
  • Experience in the development of new products for roofing and waterproofing applications, as membranes, underlayment, above and below grade waterproofing membranes, air and vapor barriers, and synthetic adhesives
  • Working knowledge of roofing and waterproofing membrane systems codes and industry standards
  • Experience developing product from the lab, through scale-up and to the final launch
  • Knowledge of material science, rheology, viscoelasticity and solid mechanics.
  • Lab experience working with analytical and mechanical instruments for polymers and membranes characterization like: DMA, TMA, DSC, DSR, FTIR, TGA, Universal testing machine, etc.
  • Ability to use analytical lab tools and data to generate correlations that predict ultimate material performance and durability
  • Strong analytical problem-solving skills
  • Ability to identify novel new approaches that establish sustained competitive advantage
  • Able to multitask, and work effectively with internal and external partners at a technical and interpersonal level
  • Masters in Material Science and Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Science, Building Science, or related fields with minimum 4 years of experience in one or more of these fields: asphalt, polymer modified asphalt, polymers, adhesives, concrete, and or waterproofing membranes for commercial or residential applications or similar endeavors.
  • Bachelors of Science /Arts in Material Science Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering ,Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Science, Organic Chemistry or related fields with minimum 6 years of experience in one or more of these fields: asphalt, polymer modified asphalt, polymers, and or roofing and waterproofing membranes for commercial or residential applications or similar endeavors
  • Minimum of 10 years industrial experience in asphaltic products, polymer modified asphalt, polymers, and/ or roofing and waterproofing membranes for commercial or residential applications or similar endeavors

Preferred Background:
  • Ph.D. in Material Science and Engineering, Civil Engineering ,Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Science, Organic Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related fields with minimum 2 years of experience in one or more of these fields: asphalt, polymer modified asphalt, polymers, adhesives, building materials, concrete, and or roofing and waterproofing membranes for commercial or residential applications or similar endeavors.

This position is located on-site in Deerfield Beach, FL. Polyglass will provide relocation assistance.