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Remote Polymer Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

We're a trusted and strategic partner to engineers, contractors, distributors, specifiers ... Job Location This is a remote role where the candidate needs to be based in Greater Chicago market.

Remote Polymer Engineer information

How does working remotely as a polymer engineer affect collaboration with cross-functional teams?

As a remote Polymer Engineer, you'll often collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams through digital platforms. Regular video conferences, shared project management tools, and virtual brainstorming sessions are common ways to stay connected. While remote work offers flexibility, it also requires proactive communication to ensure project milestones are met and technical issues are addressed quickly. Building strong relationships with onsite colleagues and being responsive in digital channels can help overcome challenges related to distance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote polymer engineer?

To thrive as a Remote Polymer Engineer, you need a strong background in polymer science, materials engineering, and experience with product development, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with polymer characterization tools, simulation software (such as MATLAB or ANSYS), and industry certifications like Six Sigma are highly valuable. Effective communication, self-motivation, and problem-solving skills are crucial for collaborating virtually and managing independent projects. These skills ensure that remote engineers can innovate, troubleshoot, and deliver high-quality solutions efficiently in a distributed work environment.

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

AspectRemote Polymer EngineerRemote Materials Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Polymer Science, Chemical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science, Chemistry
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing, product developmentResearch labs, R&D departments, academia
Industry UsagePlastics, polymers, consumer goodsMetals, ceramics, composites, polymers
Common Search IntentDesigning polymers, product innovationMaterial properties, research & development

Remote Polymer Engineers focus on developing and testing polymer materials for various applications, often working closely with manufacturing teams. Remote Materials Scientists have a broader scope, researching various materials including polymers, metals, and ceramics. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often overlap in research environments, Polymer Engineers specialize in polymer-specific projects, whereas Materials Scientists work across multiple material types.

What does a remote polymer engineer do?

A remote polymer engineer specializes in designing, testing, and improving polymer materials and products while working from a location outside of a traditional office or laboratory. Their responsibilities may include researching polymer properties, developing new materials, analyzing data, and collaborating with teams through digital tools. Remote polymer engineers often contribute to industries such as automotive, aerospace, medical devices, and consumer goods by creating materials that meet specific performance requirements. They use specialized software for simulations and communicate with colleagues and clients via video calls and online platforms. This role requires both strong technical skills and the ability to work independently.
What are the most commonly searched types of Polymer Engineer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Polymer Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Remote Polymer Engineer jobs in Illinois? For Remote Polymer Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Remote Polymer Engineer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Remote Polymer Engineer job openings:

Mechanical Research & Development Engineer

The Pennsylvania State University

Campus, IL • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

POSITION SPECIFICS

We are searching for a high motivated Mechanical Research and Development Engineer to join our Advanced Design & Analysis Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. This role will involve designing, analyzing, and testing structures and systems, including multi-material assemblies, including fiber-reinforced polymer composite structures and other advanced materials.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You will:

  • Perform analytical and computational modeling to evaluate system and structural behavior, component interactions, and overall design performance

  • Develop detailed mechanical designs and assemblies using mechanical CAD software

  • Conduct laboratory testing to validate analytical models

  • Flexibly to adapt across a variety of technical tasks, including CAD modeling, scripting in MATLAB/Python, analytical modeling, and supporting experimental testing

  • Collaborate closely with senior engineers, receiving mentorship in modeling, design methodologies, and interdisciplinary engineering practices

  • Support system and subsystem integration efforts by analyzing interfaces, ensuring compatibility, and contributing to the development of fully integrated system architectures

  • Perform detailed finite element analysis of multimaterial systems as part of broader design and integration activities, supporting structural evaluation, system modeling, and engineering decisionmaking

Additional responsibilities for higher-level position includes:

  • Support research conducted within Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified environments while safeguarding sensitive technical information and government-furnished data

  • Participate in technology transition activities, including system integration, operational demonstrations, customer evaluations, manufacturing support, and field implementation

  • Identify technical risks and develop mitigation strategies to improve program execution, system performance, reliability, maintainability, and mission effectiveness

  • Initiate and contribute to business development activities through technical concept development, customer engagement, proposal preparation, Independent Research and Development (IRAD) initiatives, and strategic technology planning

  • Mentor and provide technical leadership to junior engineers, engineering technologists, engineering support personnel, interns, and students

  • Maintain technical expertise through continued professional development, participation in technical working groups, awareness of emerging technologies, and engagement with the defense research community


Required Skills/Experience areas include:

  • Finite element analysis (FEA) modeling and structural analysis of multi-material systems

  • CAD software, such as SolidWorks, Creo, or NX

  • Programming skills (MATLAB/Python)

  • Ability to quickly adapt to diverse engineering tasks and changing project priorities

  • Demonstrated collaboration within a multidisciplinary team

Preferred Skills/Experience areas include:

  • Abaqus or similar advanced FEA software

  • Past success with multimaterial assemblies and integrated system architectures

  • Mechanical testing methods and laboratory experiments

  • Modeling, subsystem integration, or interface analysis

Your working location will be full on-site located in State College, PA.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as R&D Engineer - Mechanical (ARL) - Advanced Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science 5+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None If filled as R&D Engineer - Mechanical (ARL) - Intermediate Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science 2+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None

ARL's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Intel Community (IC), and other federal government customers.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our website atwww.arl.psu.edu.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL): Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $105,900.00 - $200,808.00.

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

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About Pennsylvania State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pennsylvania State University, often referred to as Penn State, is a major, public, research-intensive university located in University Park, PA, US. This esteemed institution serves as an important player within the education industry, offering a plethora of academic programs across various disciplines. The university was founded in 1855 with the mission to provide quality education, advanced research, and service to society. Penn State holds firmly to values of integrity, respect, and excellence, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The university is renowned for its research productivity and its high-ranking programs in areas like engineering, business, and education. One notable achievement of the institution is its designation as a "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," demonstrating its commitment to scholarship and discovery.

Industry

Education

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

University Park, PA, US

Year founded

1855

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