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Polymer Science Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Pure

ANALYTICAL SCIENTIST

Durham, NC · On-site

S. degree in Polymer Engineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or Material Science. * Must have the highest standards of integrity, accuracy, and attention to detail. * Previous experience with ...

Polyzen, LLC

Quality Engineer

Apex, NC · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Polyzen is a leading developer and manufacturer of customized polymer-based materials, films ... Life Sciences Engineering, Engineering, Quality, Physical Science required. * One (1) to two (2) ...

Solesis

Quality Engineer

Apex, NC · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Polyzen is a leading developer and manufacturer of customized polymer-based materials, films ... Life Sciences Engineering, Engineering, Quality, Physical Science required. * One (1) to two (2) ...

Polyzen LLC

Quality Engineer

Apex, NC · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Polyzen is a leading developer and manufacturer of customized polymer-based materials, films ... Life Sciences Engineering, Engineering, Quality, Physical Science required. * One (1) to two (2) ...

All JobsPolymer Science Engineer JobsPolymer Science Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Polymer Science Engineer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$49.1K

$86.8K

$150.7K

How much do polymer science engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer science engineer in Raleigh, NC is $86,835.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $111,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or software engineering with senior or executive roles can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities, and compensation may include bonuses and stock options.

What are the career opportunities in polymer science?

Polymer Science Engineers can pursue careers in research and development, manufacturing, quality control, and product design within industries such as plastics, automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and consumer goods. They often work in laboratories or production facilities, utilizing skills in chemistry, materials science, and process engineering, and may require knowledge of testing methods and regulatory standards.

What are common challenges faced by Polymer Science Engineers when transitioning from research to large-scale manufacturing?

Polymer Science Engineers often encounter challenges when scaling up from laboratory research to full-scale manufacturing, including maintaining polymer quality, consistency, and performance at higher production volumes. Controlling variables such as temperature, pressure, and raw material purity becomes more complex, and unforeseen issues like equipment limitations or batch variability can arise. Collaboration with process engineers, quality control teams, and production managers is essential to troubleshoot problems and optimize processes for commercial success.

Are polymer engineers in demand?

Polymer science engineers are in demand due to the ongoing need for advanced materials in industries such as healthcare, automotive, and packaging. They often require knowledge of polymer synthesis, characterization, and processing, with employment opportunities available in research, manufacturing, and development sectors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Polymer Science Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Polymer Science Engineer, you need a solid background in chemistry, materials science, and polymer processing, typically supported by a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with analytical instruments such as FTIR, DSC, SEM, and experience using lab information management systems or simulation software is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate on interdisciplinary teams and present findings clearly. These competencies are essential to develop innovative polymer materials, ensure product quality, and drive advancements in diverse industries.

What are Polymer Science Engineers?

Polymer Science Engineers are professionals who specialize in the study, design, and development of polymers—large molecules made up of repeating subunits, commonly known as plastics and rubbers. They work on creating new materials or improving existing ones for use in industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, healthcare, and packaging. Their work involves understanding the chemical and physical properties of polymers, processing techniques, and how these materials behave in different environments. They also collaborate with other engineers and scientists to develop innovative products and solutions using polymer materials.

What is the difference between Polymer Science Engineer vs Materials Scientist?

AspectPolymer Science EngineerMaterials Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or Materials ScienceBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science, Chemistry, or Physics
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departmentsResearch labs, industrial settings, academia
Industry UsagePlastic, rubber, polymer manufacturing companiesBroad industries including metals, ceramics, polymers

Polymer Science Engineers focus specifically on the development and processing of polymers and plastics, often working in manufacturing and R&D for plastics industries. Materials Scientists have a broader scope, working with various materials like metals, ceramics, and polymers across multiple industries. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Polymer Science Engineers specialize in polymers, whereas Materials Scientists have a wider material expertise.

What does a polymer engineer do?

A polymer science engineer designs, develops, and tests polymer materials and products, such as plastics, rubbers, and composites. They analyze material properties, optimize manufacturing processes, and ensure product quality, often using tools like spectroscopy and microscopy. The role typically requires knowledge of chemistry, materials science, and engineering principles, along with relevant certifications or degrees.
What are popular job titles related to Polymer Science Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Polymer Science Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Polymer Science Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Polymer Science Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
Polymer Science Engineer jobs near you
Polymer Scientist

Polymer Scientist

Mentis Systems

Research Triangle Park, NC • On-site

Contractor

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

The successful candidate must have hands-on experience working in a chemicals/materials/biomedical/textiles lab, be familiar with basic synthetic (polymers or small molecules) chemistry techniques, and have hands-on experience using instruments for materials characterization (rheology, Instron, DSC, GPC, and spectroscopic methods). Additional experience with test method development using medical prototypes, working knowledge of biomedical polymeric materials, and preclinical testing in animals is also valuable.
The candidate should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, ability to proactively identify and resolve experimental challenges, and a strong desire to gain experience in developing medical technologies. The candidate should be able to plan and conduct scientific experiments, and effectively analyze, interpret, and present experimental results while collaborating with team members from a variety of backgrounds. The candidate should also be able to adapt to changing requirements that can arise in a dynamic work environment and will be expected to contribute intellectually to areas not directly related to his or her field.
Education:
PhD suggested, Bachelors required
Requirements
• Hands on laboratory experience working with various polymers/biomaterials/formulations
• Experience with design and development of a polymeric materials-based solution for a biomedical or pharmaceutical application
• Hands on experience characterizing formulations/polymers (gels, polymer blends, emulsions, particles, biomedical polyesters, other viscoelastic systems etc.)
• Experience operating commonly used materials characterization tools (such as rheometer, Instron, spectroscopic methods, DSC, GPC, etc.) and interpreting resultant data
• Ability to design, execute, and appropriately document experiments
• Good written and verbal technical communication skills
• Ability to effectively interpret and present scientific results
Desired skills
• Experience developing test methods to assess biomechanical performance of prototypes
• Knowledge of polymer processing methods (extrusion, thermoforming, 3D printing, etc.), resorbable materials
• Experience with design of preclinical studies and interpretation of resultant data
• Experience in basic synthetic chemistry (small molecule or polymer synthesis)
• Willingness to work occasionally with biological specimens (e.g. animal tissues) for lab scale testing
Education:
Graduate degree (Ph.D. preferred) or equivalent work experience in the fields of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Textile engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, or related scientific discipline. Prior work experience in a medical device R&D organization is a plus.