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Polymer Science Phd Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

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 Utah? For Polymer Science Phd jobs in Utah, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Polymer Science Phd jobs in Utah look for? The top searched job categories for Polymer Science Phd jobs in Utah are:
What cities in Utah are hiring for Polymer Science Phd jobs? Cities in Utah with the most Polymer Science Phd job openings:
Infographic showing various Polymer Science Phd job openings in Utah as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Manufacturing Engineer - Polymer Chemistry

Hexcel Corporation

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 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

With our strong investment in research and development and our culture of continuous improvement, Hexcel is the industry leader in the manufacturing of advanced lightweight composite materials, including carbon fiber, woven reinforcements, resins, prepregs, honeycombs and engineered core and composite structures. We invite you to join the Hexcel team at various manufacturing sites, sales offices and R&D centers around the globe. Become a part of the "strength within."
Hexcel is currently seeking a Manufacturing Engineer - Polymer Chemistry for our Salt Lake City, UT, USA, Matrix location.
The selected individual will be responsible for but not limited to the following obligations:
  • Support operations in achieving area safety, quality, material usage variance, yield, on time delivery and throughput targets.
  • Analyze and interpret resin, film and prepreg manufacturing techniques, procedures and processing conditions.
  • Troubleshoot manufacturing process problems and implement corrective measure. Assist in directing equipment repairs and upgrades.
  • Develop and execute continuous improvement plans for resin mix, film or prepreg processes.
  • Write and maintain detailed procedures and specifications to document resin mix, film or prepreg processes.
  • Evaluate resin, film and prepreg processing conditions and resultant material properties and troubleshoot as necessary utilizing SPC techniques. Assume full responsibility for managing process conditions to meet Process Control Document requirements and mechanical and physical properties.
  • Investigate material non-conformances utilizing root cause analysis techniques and implement corrective actions to prevent future failures.
  • Develop and implement resin, film and prepreg processing conditions for new equipment and/or new materials. Provide training as necessary to operations personnel.
  • Drive improvements in material performance and improve Capability (Cpk and Ppk)
  • Provide concise design criteria and process constraints for facility expansions or improvements and assume responsibility for all new or improved equipment start up exercises and tests.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree required, PhD preferred in Chemical Engineering with emphasis in Polymer Chemistry and/or a degree in Polymer Chemistry/Science.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience focused on polymer chemistry. Experience with epoxy, phenolic, and bismaleimide (BMI) resins is highly preferred.
  • Experience in resin, prepreg or other continuous process industry preferred.
  • Experience in Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma continuous improvement program, green and black belt preferred.
  • Possesses a deep understanding of fundamental physical/chemical properties and structure-property relationships. Ability to conduct complex chemical experiments.
  • Strong project management skills with a demonstrated ability to work both as an individual contributor and as a cross-functional team member managing multiple projects.
  • Demonstrated strong oral and written communication skills.
  • Current computer literacy including Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, Project, Visio and PowerPoint.
  • Experience with SPC and other statistical techniques preferred.

Eligible candidates must be a: U.S. citizen, U.S. national, person lawfully admitted for permanent residence, temporary resident under sections 210(a) or 245(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, person admitted in refugee status, or person granted asylum. 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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