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Polymer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

$45K - $61K/yr

The PDA will lead a group of graduate students in synthesis, processing and characterization of nanoparticles and their polymer and fiber composites derived from natural sources. Additional ...

Sales Engineer

Sylacauga, AL · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr (+ commission)

... Polymer Engineering, or a closely related technical field - Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with comfort working through ambiguous customer requirements to reach a clear solution ...

Chemical Engineer - Technical Sales

Sylacauga, AL · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr (+ commission)

... Engineering, Polymer Engineering, or a closely related technical area - Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work through unclear or evolving customer ...

Director, CMMS

Troy, AL · On-site

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

The desired areas of expertise include Materials Chemistry, and/or Polymer Science/Engineering. The selected candidate will have considerable expertise in the synthesis, design, and recycling of ...

Working knowledge of polymer processing analysis, testing and equipment. * Demonstrated ability to analyze and report data, including testing equipment troubleshooting. * Understands lab scale ...

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

Drawing on its deep know-how in polymer composite materials, Michelin is constantly innovating to manufacture high-quality tires and components for critical applications in demanding fields as varied ...

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Polymer information

See Alabama salary details

$45.8K

$81K

$140.5K

How much do polymer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer in Alabama is $80,967.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,400.00 and $104,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a polymer?

A Polymer job typically involves working with synthetic or natural polymers in research, development, production, or quality control. Professionals in this field may be chemists, engineers, or technicians who design, test, and optimize polymer materials for various applications, such as plastics, coatings, adhesives, and composites. Their work is essential in industries like automotive, healthcare, packaging, and electronics. Responsibilities may include formulating new materials, improving existing products, and ensuring compliance with industry standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the polymer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Polymer Scientist or Engineer, a strong background in chemistry, materials science, or chemical engineering is essential, often supported by a relevant degree or advanced certification. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, polymer synthesis techniques, and analytical tools such as FTIR, DSC, or GPC is typically required. Excellent problem-solving skills, creativity, and strong collaboration abilities help individuals excel in both research and industrial settings. Mastering these skills and qualifications ensures innovation, safe material design, and successful project outcomes in the competitive field of polymer science.

What are the typical career advancement paths for professionals in polymer science or engineering roles?

Polymer professionals often start in research, product development, or quality control positions and can advance to senior scientist, project manager, or technical leader roles as they gain experience. With additional education or specialized training, opportunities in management, consulting, or regulatory affairs are also common. Many companies support professional development through conferences, certifications, and advanced degrees, facilitating growth into leadership positions. Joining multidisciplinary teams or working on high-impact projects can further accelerate career progression, making this field dynamic and full of opportunities for advancement.

Is polymer science a good career?

Polymer science is a specialized field focused on the development and application of polymer materials, often requiring a background in chemistry or materials science. Careers in this area can offer opportunities in research, manufacturing, and product development, with roles typically involving laboratory work and technical skills. Job prospects depend on industry demand and individual qualifications, with some positions requiring advanced degrees or certifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Polymer jobs in Alabama?

The most popular types of Polymer jobs in Alabama are:

What are popular job titles related to Polymer jobs in Alabama?

For Polymer jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Polymer job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,967 per year, or $38.9 per hour.

Polymer Synthetic Chemist

Hexcel Corporation

Decatur, AL

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Hexcel rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Can Chemistry Propel the Future of Aerospace?

Are you a polymer chemist who sees molecules as building blocks for innovation? Do you want your research to go beyond the lab and into the skies? If you're ready to transform your expertise into real-world impact, Hexcel’s opportunity in Decatur, Alabama is your launchpad.

We’re looking for a Polymer Synthetic Chemist to join our carbon fiber R&T team—where your discoveries will shape the future of flight, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing.

Why This Role Matters

This is more than a research position—it’s a chance to engineer the next generation of high-performance materials. You’ll be at the forefront of developing polyacrylonitrile precursor chemistry that powers carbon fiber used in aerospace, defense, and renewable energy. Your work will directly influence product performance, cost efficiency, and sustainability across global industries.

At Hexcel, your chemistry won’t just be studied—it will be scaled, spun, and flown.

What You Will Do

  • Advance Polymer Chemistry: Develop and apply synthetic routes, formulations, and characterization methods to enhance PAN precursor and carbon fiber performance.
  • Innovation: Focus on polymer development and application. Create next generation PAN.
  • Stay Technically Sharp: Monitor scientific literature and competitive trends to guide new research directions.
  • Communicate with Impact: Analyze and document experimental results, sharing insights with internal and external stakeholders.

Your Boarding Pass

To thrive in this role, you’ll need:

  • Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Polymer Science, or related field, with deep expertise in polymer synthesis and molecular design.
  • 5+ years of industrial research experience in polymer chemistry. Experience with polyacrylonitrile is highly preferred.
  • Proven ability to translate lab-scale insights into pilot and commercial-scale solutions.
  • Strong understanding of structure-property relationships and advanced analytical techniques.
  • Hands-on experimental skills and a track record of solving complex technical problems.
  • Project management experience and ability to lead and collaborate across teams.

Why Decatur, AL?

It all starts here. Decatur is more than just a manufacturing site—it’s a community of innovators that sets the stage for precision downstream processes at other Hexcel sites. Nestled along the Tennessee River, Decatur offers a blend of Southern charm, outdoor adventure, and a growing tech scene. With a lower cost of living and access to nature, it’s a place where you can build both a career and a life.  Relocation assistance available.

About Hexcel

With our strong investment in research and development and our culture of continuous improvement, Hexcel is the industry leader in the manufacturing of advanced composite materials, including carbon fiber, woven reinforcements, resins, prepregs, honeycombs, and additive manufactured parts. We invite you to join the Hexcel team at various manufacturing sites, sales offices, and R&T centers around the globe. Become a part of the “strength within.”

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 of Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected class.


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