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Principal Polymer Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Exponent

Principal Scientist

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$225K - $275K/yr

About Exponent Exponent is the only premium engineering and scientific consulting firm with the ... Leveraging deep knowledge in polymer science to address a wide range of complex challenges across ...

Exponent

Principal Scientist

Seattle, WA · On-site

$225K - $275K/yr

About Exponent Exponent is the only premium engineering and scientific consulting firm with the ... Leveraging deep knowledge in polymer science to address a wide range of complex challenges across ...

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How much do principal polymer engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal polymer engineer in the United States is $147,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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Principal R&D Engineer - TPU Chemistry and Processing

San Antonio, TX • On-site

XPEL, Inc.
Motor Vehicle Parts Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about XPEL, Inc.external

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Key responsibilities

  • Lead fundamental research into TPU/EPU polymer architecture and their effects on optical, thermal, and mechanical performance.

  • Establish lab-scale extrusion and film casting protocols for transparent and optical-grade films.

  • Translate lab-scale polymer synthesis and extrusion processes to pilot and full production scale.

Job description

Job Summary:
The Principal Research and Development Engineer will lead and oversee their respective area(s) of development of XPEL's core technology.
Core Duties
  • Lead fundamental research into TPU/EPU polymer architecture (soft/hard segment ratios, chain extenders, isocyanates) and their effects on optical, thermal, and mechanical performance.
  • Correlate polymer chemistry with durability, weathering resistance, and long-term stability.
  • Establish lab-scale extrusion and film casting protocols for transparent and optical-grade films.
  • Define critical process-performance relationships, including haze, tensile strength, elongation, tear resistance, and environmental durability.
  • Optimize formulation and processing parameters for high clarity, low birefringence, and minimal defects.
  • Build and maintain a competitive intelligence database of global TPU chemistries, extrusion processes, and film performance benchmarks.
  • Conduct accelerated aging, optical, and mechanical testing to validate long-term performance targets.
  • Translate lab-scale polymer synthesis and extrusion processes to pilot and full production scale.
  • Collaborate with process engineers, manufacturing teams, and external partners to ensure successful technology hand-off.
  • Identify and protect intellectual property opportunities in TPU/EPU chemistries, extrusion processes, and film applications.
  • Stay at the forefront of polyurethane and optical polymer science to drive continuous innovation.
  • Provide robust technical solutions to new product development initiatives and lend support to sales and product management teams
  • Bridge the gap from bench scale testing to industrial manufacturing processes by taking a lead role in the scale up process
  • Develop plans and procedures for specifications & fabrication of components, integration of technologies, balancing cost & manufacturability
  • Serve as technical interface to vendors and manufacturers
  • Continue to improve upon existing process and product through research and development in the specific area of responsibility
  • Remain versed and up to date on polymer chemistry, extrusion and other emerging technologies in the film industry
  • Develop and execute testing methodology necessary to ensure products meet industry standards
  • Develop a roadmap for next gen product innovations and lead platform level programs
  • Other duties as assigned

Basic Qualifications
  • B.S in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field with 8+ industrial experience
  • Strong background in polyurethanes, thermoplastic elastomers, and optical polymer systems.
  • Proven hands-on experience with TPU/EPU synthesis, film extrusion, and coating processes.
  • In-depth knowledge of structure-property mapping for polyurethane materials.
  • Strong understanding of processing variables (temperature, shear, residence time) and their effects on polymer morphology and film performance.
  • Proficiency with optical and mechanical testing: haze, gloss, tensile, elongation, modulus, durability, and weatherability.
  • Familiarity with additives (stabilizers, antioxidants, UV absorbers) and their influence on film performance.
  • Technical expertise in thermal, mechanical, and optical properties for polymer multilayer films using advanced analytical tools like DMA/DHR, DSC, FTIR, TGA, GPC/MS, profilometer, etc.
  • Track record of patent generation and/or publications in polyurethane or optical polymer fields.
  • Demonstrated experience working with interdisciplinary teams to drive programs from concept to production/commercialization
  • Strong problem-solving and data-driven decision-making ability
  • Strong understanding of design of experiments and corresponding data analysis
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders
  • Proven record of innovation, IP contribution, and technical leadership
  • In-office role

Desired Qualifications
  • Advanced Degree preferred

XPEL is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
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About XPEL

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Motor vehicle parts manufacturing

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

San Antonio, TX, US

Social media

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