Polymer Chemist

Resilient Structures; Humble (TX); On-site; USD 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Retirement savings plan with company 2

Life and short-term disability insured

Additional life and long-term disabilt

Generous paid time off

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Resilient Structures is seeking a Polymer Chemist to advance polyurethane resins and thermoset systems for advanced composite applications. You will perform formulation, testing, and characterization to optimize materials and processes, collaborating with R&D, Quality, and Manufacturing to drive product development and continuous improvement.

The role emphasizes hands-on manufacturing support in an industrial setting, with a focus on sustainability and low-carbon materials development.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Chemistry, Polymer Science, or Materials Science.
• 5–10 years of experience with thermoset resins, polyurethane systems, or FRP composites.
• Hands-on experience in composite manufacturing environments.
• Strong knowledge of polymer characterization, mechanical testing, and material properties.
• Experience with DOE, data analysis, and process optimization.
• Demonstrated troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement skills.
• Strong technical writing and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize polyurethane and other thermoset resin systems.
• Conduct polymer formulation, testing, and material characterization using DSC, FTIR, DMA, and titration.
• Support composite manufacturing processes, including pultrusion, filament winding, RTM, injection molding, and vacuum infusion.
• Apply DOE and statistical analysis to improve processes and material performance.
• Investigate production and quality issues through troubleshooting and root cause analysis.
• Collaborate with R&D, Quality, and Manufacturing teams to support product development and continuous improvement.
• Evaluate and qualify raw materials, equipment, and processes.
• Maintain accurate technical documentation, test records, and reports.
• Support sustainability initiatives involving low-carbon materials and recycling.

Skills

Thermoset resins

Polyurethane

Composite characterization

DOE

Data analysis

Troubleshooting

Technical writing

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry/Polymer Science

Tools

DSC

FTIR

DMA

Titration

Job description

POLYMER CHEMIST | COMPOSITES | POLYURETHANE RESINS

About RS

RS is a global leader in composite utility poles, advanced materials, and energy infrastructure solutions. We design and manufacture lightweight, durable, high-performance composite structures that outperform traditional wood, steel, and concrete alternatives, supporting a more resilient and sustainable power grid across North America and more than 30 countries.

Position Overview

RS is seeking a Polymer Chemist to join our Technical Development & R&D team. This position focuses on polyurethane formulation, material characterization, process optimization, and product development for advanced composite applications.

The ideal candidate has experience with thermoset resins, fiber‑reinforced polymer (FRP) composites, and manufacturing processes. As a member of the RS team, you will support a culture that prioritizes employee well‑being and reflects our core values of safety, respect, resilience, and teamwork.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize polyurethane and other thermoset resin systems.
• Conduct polymer formulation, testing, and material characterization using DSC, FTIR, DMA, and titration.
• Support composite manufacturing processes, including pultrusion, filament winding, resin transfer molding (RTM), injection molding, and vacuum infusion.
• Apply Design of Experiments (DOE) and statistical analysis to improve processes and material performance.
• Investigate production and quality issues through troubleshooting and root cause analysis.
• Collaborate with R&D, Quality, and Manufacturing teams to support product development and continuous improvement.
• Evaluate and qualify raw materials, equipment, and processes.
• Maintain accurate technical documentation, test records, and reports.
• Support sustainability initiatives involving low‑carbon materials and recycling.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or Materials Science.
• 5-10 years of experience with thermoset resins, polyurethane systems, or FRP composites.
• Hands‑on experience in composite manufacturing environments.
• Strong knowledge of polymer characterization, mechanical testing, and material properties.
• Experience with DOE, data analysis, and process optimization.
• Demonstrated troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement skills.
• Strong technical writing and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with coatings, color science, or fire performance testing.
• Knowledge of sustainability practices, regulatory compliance, and advanced materials development.

Physical Requirements

The following requirements are representative of those needed to perform the essential functions of this position:

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods throughout the workday.
• Frequent use of hands and fingers to operate computers, equipment, and tools.
• Ability to bend, reach, and twist frequently, with occasional kneeling or crouching.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull items weighing 20 pounds.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) and work safely in the assigned environment.

Working Conditions

• Work in an industrial manufacturing environment.
• Exposure to hot and humid conditions.
• Exposure to production materials, including limited interaction with manufacturing chemicals, while following required safety procedures and PPE requirements.

What We Offer

• Retirement savings plans with company contributions.
• Employer‑paid life and short‑term disability insurance.
• Optional additional life and long‑term disability coverage.
• Generous paid time off and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.

Why Join RS?

At RS, you will help develop and improve the materials and manufacturing processes that support reliable energy infrastructure. Your work will contribute directly to product performance, quality, and sustainability as we continue to grow.