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Polymer Science Phd Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Eastman

Technical Leader - Plastics

Kingsport, TN · On-site

PhD or Master's degree and 10+ years industry experience strongly preferred. Degree must be in Materials Science or Engineering, Polymer Science and/or Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely ...

Eastman

Technical Leader - Plastics

Kingsport, TN · On-site

PhD or Master's degree and 10+ years industry experience strongly preferred. Degree must be in Materials Science or Engineering, Polymer Science and/or Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely ...

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Polymer Science Phd information

What are some common interdisciplinary collaborations for Polymer Science PhD professionals in industry or academia?

Polymer Science PhD professionals often collaborate with experts in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, and biomedical engineering. These interdisciplinary teams work together to develop new materials for applications such as medical devices, electronics, or sustainable packaging. Such collaboration not only broadens the impact of research but also provides valuable experience in cross-functional teamwork, which is highly valued in both industrial and academic settings.

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

AspectPolymer Science PhdMaterials Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD in Polymer Science or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science or related field, PhD preferred for advanced roles
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, R&D departmentsIndustrial labs, manufacturing, research and development
Industry UsageSpecialized in polymers, plastics, elastomersBroader focus including metals, ceramics, polymers

Polymer Science Phds typically focus on research and development within polymers and plastics, often in academic or specialized R&D settings. Materials Scientists have a broader scope, working with various materials in industrial environments. Both roles require strong technical knowledge, but Polymer Science Phds are more specialized in polymers, while Materials Scientists work across multiple material types.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Polymer Science PhD?

To thrive as a Polymer Science PhD, you need an advanced understanding of polymer chemistry, materials characterization, and experimental design, typically supported by a doctoral degree in polymer science or a related field. Familiarity with analytical instruments like FTIR, NMR, DSC, and GPC, as well as experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, and effective communication skills help distinguish top performers in this field. These competencies are crucial for driving innovation, conducting rigorous research, and collaborating within multidisciplinary teams in academic or industrial settings.

What is a Polymer Science PhD?

A Polymer Science PhD is an advanced doctoral degree focused on the study of polymers, which are large molecules made up of repeating structural units. This interdisciplinary field combines aspects of chemistry, physics, materials science, and engineering to understand and innovate in the development, characterization, and application of polymeric materials. Graduates are trained to conduct independent research, develop new materials, and solve complex problems related to plastics, rubbers, fibers, and other polymer-based products. Careers for Polymer Science PhDs span academia, industry, and government labs, often involving research and development of new materials for various applications.
What are popular job titles related to Polymer Science Phd jobs in Tennessee? For Polymer Science Phd jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Polymer Science Phd jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Polymer Science Phd jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Polymer Science Phd jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Polymer Science Phd job openings:
Polymer Science Phd jobs near you
Infographic showing various Polymer Science Phd job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Technical Leader - Plastics

Eastman Chemical Company

Kingsport, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Founded in 1920, Eastman is a global specialty materials company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day. With the purpose of enhancing the quality of life in a material way, Eastman works with customers to deliver innovative products and solutions while maintaining a commitment to safety and sustainability. The company's innovation-driven growth model takes advantage of world-class technology platforms, deep customer engagement, and differentiated application development to grow its leading positions in attractive end markets such as transportation, building and construction, and consumables. As a globally inclusive company, Eastman employs approximately 13,000 people around the world and serves customers in more than 100 countries. The company had 2025 revenue of approximately $8.8 billion and is headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, USA. For more information, visitwww.eastman.com.

Description

The Technical Leader serves as the primary technical authority supporting global and regional business strategies for Eastman's Specialty Plastics business, with a strong focus on injection molded durable goods applications. This role is responsible for driving technology adoption, enabling commercialization, supporting strategic growth initiatives, and delivering world-class technical service and development across the value chain.

The leader develops and maintains deep technical relationships with downstream customers and industry partners while collaborating closely with Sales, Marketing, Product Management, R&D, Manufacturing, and Quality organizations. Through advanced expertise in polymer science, injection molding, application development, and commercialization, this role helps accelerate innovation, protect existing business, and identify new growth opportunities that strengthen Eastman's market position. This role is located onsite at our Kingsport, TN headquarters. 

Responsibilities

Technology Leadership and Business Development

  • Serve as the technical leader for injection molded durable goods applications within the Specialty Plastics business.
  • Support execution of global and regional business strategies through application-focused technology leadership and customer engagement.
  • Develop and maintain deep technical relationships across the value-chain customers and industry influencers.
  • Partner with commercial teams to position Eastman's technologies and differentiate product offerings through application expertise and technical value creation.
  • Identify emerging market trends, unmet customer needs, and technology opportunities to drive future business growth.

Customer Engagement and Commercialization

  • Engage proactively with customers to drive solution adoption and accelerate commercialization opportunities.
  • Support opportunity management processes by prioritizing, tracking, and advancing new business, growth, and protect opportunities.
  • Utilize consultative selling and value-based communication techniques to effectively demonstrate technical and commercial benefits.
  • Translate customer requirements into actionable development activities that enable business growth and market expansion.

Technical Problem Solving and Development

  • Serve as the subject matter expert in injection molding processes and polymer application development.
  • Lead resolution of complex technical challenges involving product performance, processing, application failures, and customer concerns.
  • Conduct root cause investigations, failure analyses, process optimization activities, and implementation support to ensure sustainable solutions.
  • Design, execute, and interpret laboratory, pilot, and field validation trials to support product adoption and commercialization.
  • Translate technical findings into scalable recommendations, specifications, and best practices that improve customer success.

Industry Leadership and External Engagement

  • Represent Eastman as a senior technical expert during customer visits, audits, technical reviews, and commercialization discussions.
  • Deliver customer training programs, technical seminars, conference presentations, and industry workshops.
  • Develop and maintain strong external networks that enhance Eastman's technical reputation and market influence.
Qualifications

Education Requirements:

  • B.S. with 15+ years of relevant industry experience. PhD or Master's degree and 10+ years industry experience strongly preferred. Degree must be in Materials Science or Engineering, Polymer Science and/or Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely related field.

Experience Requirements:

  • Extensive experience with injection molding processes, processing optimization, and commercialization of molded products. Durable goods application experience is strongly preferred.
  • Demonstrated expertise in polymers, plastics, material selection, and application development within commercial markets.
  • Experience with Design of Experiments (DOE), structured problem solving, root cause analysis, and technical troubleshooting methodologies

Other Information: 

  • 25% travel is required for this position

Benefits

Your total rewards go far beyond a competitive salary. When you join Eastman, you gain access to an exceptional suite of programs designed to protect your health, grow your wealth, and fuel your career.

Compensation & Incentives
Base pay plus performance-based incentive opportunities that let you share in our success.

Health & Wellness
Comprehensive medical, prescription-drug, and dental coverage-paired with a Health Savings Account option to help you save tax-free dollars for care today or in the future.
A robust menu of voluntary benefits-including vision, optional life, critical-illness protection, and more-so you can tailor coverage to fit your life.
Holistic wellness support: financial-planning tools, family-building assistance (adoption, pregnancy, and fertility resources), parental leave, and confidential Employee Assistance Program counseling.

Retirement & Financial Strategies
401(k) with a company match-plus an additional annual retirement contribution from Eastman to accelerate your long-term savings.

Time Away
Eleven paid holidays, one personal day, paid time off, and paid vacation to recharge, celebrate, or handle life's moments.

Growth & Development
Access to mentorship, learning resources, and leadership programs that empower you to thrive in your current role and chart the next steps in your career.

At Eastman, we invest in the whole you-so you can bring your best self to work every day and build a future you're proud of.

Eastman Chemical Company is an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, pregnancy, veteran status or any other protected classes as designated by law.

Eastman is committed to creating a powerfully engaged workplace, where everyone can contribute to their fullest potential each day.

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