Associate Materials Engineer

Callaway Golf; Carlsbad (CA); On-site; USD 66,000 - 99,000; Full time

Job summary

Callaway Golf is seeking an Associate Materials Engineer to join our Golf Ball R&D team. You will apply polymer science to develop materials for future golf ball performance, perform hands-on testing, and interpret data to link material properties with on-ball performance.

The role emphasizes cross-functional collaboration with engineering, manufacturing, and suppliers, with opportunities to design new tests and methods, and to contribute meaningfully to product quality and player experience.

Qualifications

• BS in Materials Science/Engineering or related field is required or equivalent experience.
• 0–2 years of polymer materials R&D experience, preferably in sporting goods or consumer products.
• Experience applying materials science to product performance and cross-functional projects.

Responsibilities

• Support R&D projects to identify, design, and evaluate materials for golf ball products.
• Design and analyze materials characterization studies and develop new methods as needed.
• Conduct hands-on laboratory testing and interpret data to inform material choices.
• Collaborate with engineering, testing, and manufacturing teams on material decisions.
• Communicate findings and risks to peers and stakeholders.

Skills

Polymer materials science

Material testing

Data interpretation

Cross-functional collaboration

Laboratory techniques

Education

BS in Materials Science/Engineering, Polymer Science, Chemistry or related field

Tools

Spectroscopy

Thermal analysis

Chromatography

Mechanical testing

Injection molding

Job description

ABOUT THE BRAND:

Callaway Golf Company is a premium golf equipment, gear and apparel company with a portfolio of global brands, including Callaway Golf, Odyssey, TravisMathew, and OGIO. Through an unwavering commitment to innovation and premium craftsmanship, Callaway designs, manufactures, and sells high-performance golf clubs, golf balls, apparel, bags, and other accessories—setting the standard for performance in the game of golf.

Our Mission: To create demonstrably superior and pleasingly different products powered by innovative technology and premium craftsmanship enabling golfers of all abilities to play their best and find more joy in the game.

Our company is a blend of experience and diverse backgrounds, and together we look to leave the past behind while moving the game forward. For more information, please visit https://www.callawaygolf.com

JOB OVERVIEW

Callaway Golf is looking for an Associate Materials Engineer to join our Golf Ball R&D team and support the development of materials technologies that will enable future golf ball performance. The ideal candidate will have a foundation in polymer or materials science, with the ability to apply that knowledge to projects focused on improving product performance and player experience. This role provides the opportunity to contribute to complex R&D projects and work collaboratively with cross-functional teams. The successful candidate will be technically curious, enjoy solving challenging problems, and be excited to apply their materials background to the development of real-world products.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support R&D projects to identify, design, develop, and evaluate materials for use in future-generation golf ball products.
• Design, execute, and analyze materials characterization studies, including the development of new methods and equipment, where required.
• Conduct hands-on, laboratory-based testing utilizing both standard and bespoke methods and techniques.
• Apply materials science concepts to interpret characterization and performance data, linking material properties with on-ball performance observations.
• Contribute to material selection, formulation, processing, and evaluation of performance trade-offs.
• Collaborate with testing, prototyping, engineering, and manufacturing teams to evaluate materials for use in future products.
• Collaborate with material suppliers to evaluate, develop, and qualify materials for future and existing products.
• Document and communicate technical findings, project status, risks, and recommendations to peers and cross-functional stakeholders.

TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES (Knowledge, Skills & Abilities)

• Foundational understanding of polymer materials science, including polymer chemistry, structure-property relationships, and material behavior.
• Knowledge of polymer systems including elastomers, thermoplastics, thermosets, and polymer-based composite materials.
• Familiarity with materials characterization and data interpretation using appropriate analytical techniques, such as spectroscopy, thermal analysis, chromatography, and mechanical testing.
• Awareness of polymer processing technologies, including injection molding, compression molding, extrusion, and related manufacturing processes.
• Ability to apply materials science principles to investigate technical problems, interpret experimental results, and contribute to data-driven recommendations.
• Ability to communicate technical concepts and findings effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to organize and manage project activities, priorities, and timelines while working effectively within a cross-functional team.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• BS in Materials Science/Engineering, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical discipline; equivalent relevant industry experience considered.
• 0-2 years of experience in polymer materials research, development, or application engineering, ideally within sporting goods, consumer products, or other performance-driven industries.
• Demonstrated ability to apply materials science principles through academic, research, project, or industry experience.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including engineering, manufacturing, testing, and product development stakeholders.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS / WORK ENVIRONMENT (if applicable)

• Work is performed in a designated professional office workstation and environment.
• Extensive use of general office and relevant laboratory equipment.
• Occasionally required to lift and/or carry up to 30 pounds.
• Occasionally required to travel domestically and/or internationally.

DISCLAIMER

This job description indicates in general terms, the type and level of work performed as well as the typical responsibilities of employees in this classification and it may be changed by management at any time. Other duties may also apply. Nothing in this position description changes the at-will employment relationship existing between the Company and its employees. Distribution of this item outside of the Company without an authorized release is a violation of Company policy.

DE&I and EEOC:

Inclusion & Diversity: As a purpose-led, performance driven company, we strive to foster a culture of belonging based on respect, connection, openness and authenticity. We are committed to building and maintaining a workplace that celebrates the diversity of our associates, supporting them to bring their authentic selves to work every day.

66,200.00 - 82,700.00 - 99,200.00 USD Annual