Materials Engineer
Materials Engineer
Plastic Executive Recruiters
Iowa City, IA
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Plastic Executive Recruiters provided pay range
This range is provided by Plastic Executive Recruiters. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.
Base pay range
We’re looking for a hands-on Materials Engineer to assist in formulation, testing and processing efforts for advanced polymer materials with a focus on recycled content. This role bridges R&D, manufacturing, and quality—turning technical insight into scalable product solutions for the plastics industry.
This is not a research position, looking for someone who wants to be hands on with molding/extrusion trials and material improvement.
What You'll Do
- Formulate and improve polyolefin-based composites using recycled materials to meet durability, performance, and cost goals.
- Run material trials from lab-scale prototypes to full-scale production, working closely with manufacturing teams.
- Analyze and interpret data from mechanical and thermal testing
- Troubleshoot material issues and provide root cause analysis to support product improvements.
- Maintain clear documentation of formulations, test methods, and results.
- Collaborate with suppliers and internal teams to qualify materials, align specifications, and support regulatory compliance.
What You Bring
- Degree in Materials Science, Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field. (Bachelor's or Master's only, Not PHD)
- 2+ years of experience in polymer R&D, especially with PE, PP, or recycled resins.
- Strong understanding of material behavior, structure-property relationships, and polymer testing methods.
- Hands-on experience with plastics processing techniques
- Ability to manage multiple development projects and communicate technical findings clearly.
Preferred Qualifications
- Familiarity with additives and sustainability-focused formulations.
- Background in building materials, construction products, or outdoor-durable goods.
- Experience with quality tools such as SPC, FMEA, or DOE.
Physical & Travel Requirements
- Comfortable working in lab and plant settings; able to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Willingness to travel up to 20% for supplier visits and production support.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary: $90,000 – $140,000 based on qualifications
- Full health, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with employer match
- Generous paid time off and holidays
- Supportive, high-performing environment with a focus on innovation
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Seniority level
Associate -
Employment type
Full-time -
Job function
Science, Analyst, and Engineering -
Industries
Plastics Manufacturing
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Medical insurance -
Vision insurance -
Dental insurance -
401(k)
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