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Polymer Research Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 · 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 ...

Prysmian Group

R&D Materials Engineer

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Nature & Scope Reporting to the Polymer and Compounding Manager, this position is responsible for ... The R&D Materials Senior Engineer will apply a systematic and designed experimental approach to ...

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 ...

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 ...

Hexcel Corporation

R&D Polymer Chemist

Amesbury, MA

$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 ...

Verde Bioresins, Inc

Polymer Chemist

Fullerton, CA

$100K - $125K/yr

... R&D lab. The ideal candidate will be a self-starter and thrive in a fast-paced, evolving ... D. in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Polymer Science, or related field · ...

New

Mentis Systems

Polymer Scientist

NC · On-site

... polymer blends, emulsions, particles, biomedical polyesters, other viscoelastic systems etc.) • ... Engineering, or related scientific discipline. Prior work experience in a medical device R&D ...

Posted today

QUIKRETE Companies

Polymer Chemist/Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

We're hiring for the role of Polymer Chemist/Engineer to support our cutting-edge research and product development efforts. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of the construction ...

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 ...

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 ...

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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 Jul 12, 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 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.
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Polymer Research Engineer jobs near you
Polymer Scientist

Polymer Scientist

Hexion, Inc.

Springfield, OR • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Company Overview
Hexion is entering a bold new chapter, and we're looking for talented scientists, engineers, and innovators to be part of it.
With our newly announced expansion of the research and development headquarters in Dublin, Ohio, we're creating high-impact roles that will shape the future of sustainable materials, advanced chemistry, and AI-driven manufacturing. (Learn more about our expansion here: Hexion Selects Columbus Region for Global R&D Center)
At Hexion, you won't just work on products-you'll build real-world solutions that power industries and make a global impact. Hexion is a place where curiosity is rewarded, innovation is constant, and the possibilities are endless.
If you're looking for a career that challenges you, inspires you, and puts you at the forefront of what's next, we encourage you to apply today and join us in building the future.
Anything is possible when you imagine everything.
Position Overview
Location: Flexible (Initially work to be carried out in Springfield, OR until Dublin, OH lab opens in 2027)
Hexion is seeking a Polymer Scientist to join our Research & Development team with a first project supporting the advancement of high-performance superplasticizers for concrete applications. This role will focus on the design and development of innovative polymer technologies that enable enhanced workability, durability, and sustainability in cementitious systems.
As part of Hexion's innovation-driven culture, this position will contribute to the development of differentiated solutions aligned with evolving customer needs and low-carbon construction trends. The successful candidate will collaborate across R&D, technical service, and manufacturing to translate laboratory discoveries into commercial products.
Job Responsibilities
  • Design, synthesize, and optimize water-soluble polymers to meet targeted performance criteria
  • Establish structure-property relationships to improve dispersion efficiency, slump retention, and cement compatibility across diverse formulations
  • Plan and execute experimental programs to support new product development, line extensions, and cost/performance optimization
  • Evaluate polymer performance in cementitious systems in collaboration with application development teams
  • Utilize analytical techniques (GPC/SEC, NMR, FTIR, rheology, etc.) to characterize polymers and guide development decisions
  • Partner with process development and manufacturing teams to support scale-up, process robustness, and commercialization efforts
  • Engage with technical service and commercial teams to understand customer requirements and translate them into R&D solutions
  • Maintain detailed documentation, prepare technical reports, and communicate results to cross-functional stakeholders
  • Monitor competitive technologies, patents, and industry trends in construction chemicals and specialty polymers
  • Adhere to Hexion's safety, health, environmental, and quality standards in all activities

Minimum Qualifications
  • Ph.D. or M.S. in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline
  • 5+ years of experience in polymer synthesis and characterization (industrial or academic)
  • Strong understanding of water-soluble polymers, dispersants, or surfactant systems
  • Broad polymer synthesis and compounding experience with condensation and free-radical/chain-transfer polymerizations; knowledge of polymer interactions with inorganic oxides or silicates is a plus
  • Demonstrated ability to design experiments, analyze data, and solve complex technical problems including the use of AI assistants to accelerate development
  • Experience with scale-up, pilot plant, and/or manufacturing environments
  • Effective communication skills and ability to work in a collaborative, cross-functional environment

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in construction chemicals, particularly superplasticizers, concrete admixtures or general knowledge of cement chemistry, hydration behavior, and rheology of cementitious systems
  • Interest or experience in sustainable materials, including technologies supporting low-carbon cement systems
  • Effective in working through multi-site collaborative research program

Other
We are an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, pregnancy, race, national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran or military status, status as a qualified individual with a disability or any other characteristic protected by law.
To be considered for this position candidates are required to submit an application for employment through our career site and, be at least 18 years of age. Any offer of employment will be conditioned upon successful completion of a drug test and background investigation, as well as authorization for the Company to conduct additional periodic background checks as required by the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS) or regulations adopted by the department of Homeland Security or other regulatory agencies. A prior criminal record is not an automatic bar to employment, and the Company will conduct an individualized assessment and reassessment, consistent with applicable law, prior to making any final employment decision.

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