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

$100,000.00/yr - $130,000.00/yr

Direct message the job poster from Plastic Executive Recruiters

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

  • Seniority level

    Associate
  • Employment type

    Full-time
  • Job function

    Science, Analyst, and Engineering
  • Industries

    Plastics Manufacturing

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