Materials Scientist

Plastic Executive Recruiters; Iowa City (IA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full health, dental, and vision coverage

401(k) with employer match

Generous paid time off and holidays

Supportive environment with a focus on innovation

Job summary

A recruiting firm is seeking a Material Scientist to lead formulation and testing efforts for advanced polymer materials focusing on recycled content. This role involves collaboration across R&D, manufacturing, and quality to develop scalable solutions for the plastics industry. The ideal candidate will have a degree in a relevant field and significant experience in polymer R&D. The position offers a competitive salary range of $100,000.00 to $150,000.00 per year and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• 3–8+ years of experience in polymer R&D, especially with PE, PP, or recycled resins.
• Strong understanding of material behavior and structure-property relationships.
• Ability to manage multiple development projects.

Responsibilities

• Formulate and improve polyolefin-based composites using recycled materials.
• Run material trials from lab-scale prototypes to full-scale production.
• Analyze and interpret data from mechanical and thermal testing.

Skills

Polymer R&D

Material testing

Plastics processing techniques

Data analysis

Project management

Education

Degree in Materials Science, Polymer Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering

Job description

Overview

We’re looking for a hands-on Material Scientist to lead formulation and testing 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.

Base pay range

$100,000.00/yr - $150,000.00/yr

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.

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.
• 3–8+ 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.

Compensation & Benefits

• Base pay range: $100,000.00/yr - $150,000.00/yr (provided by Plastic Executive Recruiters; final pay 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

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.

Seniority level

• Associate

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Science, Engineering, and Analyst

Industries

• Plastics Manufacturing