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Polymer Research Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hexcel Corporation

R&D Polymer Chemist

Amesbury, MA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Hexcel is currently seeking a R&D Polymer Chemist for our Amesbury, MA location. The selected ... Qualifications * BS/MS/PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering or ...

Hexion, Inc.

Polymer Scientist

Springfield, OR · On-site

... engineers, and innovators to be part of it. With our newly announced expansion of the research and ... This role will focus on the design and development of innovative polymer technologies that enable ...

Hexion Careers

Polymer Scientist

Springfield, OR

... engineers, and innovators to be part of it. With our newly announced expansion of the research and ... This role will focus on the design and development of innovative polymer technologies that enable ...

Howmet

R&D Engineer, Polymer Binder

Morristown, TN

... Polymer Binder Engineer is a position within our Howmet R&D team, located in Morristown, TN. This role is responsible for a combination of development and support for Howmet's core manufacturing ...

ENTEK INTERNATIONAL LLC

Polymer Scientist

Lebanon, OR

$115K - $130K/yr

This position is responsible for research, development, and optimization of microporous membranes ... Collaborates with Engineering, Process Technologist, and Quality Manager to solve process problems ...

Entegris

Polymer Pad Development Scientist

Aurora, IL · On-site

$125K - $145K/yr

PhD in Polymer Science or Engineering, or polymer material focus in Materials Science or Engineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field required * 3+ years of research and development ...

ENTEK

Polymer Scientist

Lebanon, OR · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

This position is responsible for research, development, and optimization of microporous membranes ... Collaborates with Engineering, Process Technologist, and Quality Manager to solve process problems ...

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Polymer Research Engineer information

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$37K

$106K

$142.5K

How much do polymer research engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer research engineer in the United States is $106,012.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,000.00 and $104,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

More about Polymer Research Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Polymer Research Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Polymer Research Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Polymer Research Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Polymer Research Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Polymer Research Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Polymer Research Engineer jobs are:
Polymer Research Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Polymer Research Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $106,012 per year, or $51 per hour.
R&D Polymer Chemist

R&D Polymer Chemist

Hexcel Corporation

Amesbury, MA • On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Hexcel rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

As a part of Hexcel, we at ARC Technologies LLC are propelling the future of flight, energy generation, transportation, and recreation through excellence in advanced material solutions that create a better world. We proudly support our military through our product offerings. Whether you are a civilian, veteran, transitioning member, reservist, or military spouse, Hexcel is committed to supporting, including, and empowering you.
By joining our team, you will become part of a global community of peers dedicated to creating quality parts and materials. If you have integrity, accountability, a willingness to explore new ideas, and a desire to succeed, then ARC Technologies is the place for you.
Benefits
In addition to competitive medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance and robust paid time off, we offer the following:
  • Hexcel 401k with company matching contribution
  • Employee stock purchase program
  • Quarterly bonus potential
  • Profit Sharing Program
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Educational Assistance Program
  • Prepaid group legal plan

As a part of Hexcel, we at ARC Technologies LLC are propelling the future of flight, energy generation, transportation, and recreation through excellence in advanced material solutions that create a better world. We proudly support our military through our product offerings. Whether you are a civilian, veteran, transitioning member, reservist, or military spouse, Hexcel is committed to supporting, including, and empowering you.
By joining our team, you will become part of a global community of peers dedicated to creating quality parts and materials. If you have integrity, accountability, a willingness to explore new ideas, and a desire to succeed, then ARC Technologies is the place for you.
Hexcel is currently seeking a R&D Polymer Chemist for our Amesbury, MA location.
The selected individual will be responsible for but not limited to the following obligations:
  • Participate as the materials expert in the development of next generation (RF) Radio Frequency absorbers.
  • Specify appropriate polymer systems to meet customers' desired material properties.
  • Modify existing polymer systems to improve specific properties like heat resistance, UV resistance, chemical resistance, etc.
  • Produce proof-of-concept and lab-scale samples for testing and evaluation.
  • Characterize composition, molecular weight and mechanical properties of developmental materials.
  • Assist in transition to production, including specifying or modifying equipment and developing production-scale processes.
  • Specify and source raw materials for synthesizing in-house polymer systems.

Qualifications
  • BS/MS/PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering or other equivalent technical degree
  • 5+ years of polymer modification and development experience OR a PhD degree in lieu of experience.
  • Extensive understanding of thermoset polymer chemistry, particularly urethane, silicone, and epoxy chemistry.
  • Experience with various production techniques, including spraying, casting, molding and pressing.
  • Experience with fluorinated elastomer systems is preferred.
  • Experience with RF absorbing or conductive polymer systems is preferred.
  • Applicants must be capable of obtaining a US Department of Defense security clearance.

Complete salary range for this role: $120,000-$160,000.
This position is restricted to U.S. citizens due to U.S. federal government contracts that require the employment of only persons who are U.S. citizens. 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. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected class.

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