Senior Materials Scientist - Advanced Polymers

Placements24; Amesville (CT); Hybrid; USD 72,000 - 102,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan with company matching

Paid time off

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24, a global leader in materials science, seeks a Senior Materials Scientist to join its R&D division. Based in Rustenburg, ZA, the role focuses on the development and characterization of advanced polymer materials for high-performance applications, with a hybrid model offering remote work alongside on-site lab access.

You will lead projects, design experiments using spectroscopy, microscopy, DSC, TGA, FTIR and NMR, mentor researchers, publish results, and help translate lab findings

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in materials science R&D with a focus on polymers.
• Expertise in polymer synthesis and characterization techniques (GPC, DSC, TGA, FTIR, NMR)
• Experience with polymer processing methods (extrusion, injection molding, additive manufacturing).
• Strong project management and ability to lead complex research from concept to completion.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D projects for synthesis, processing, and characterization of advanced polymer systems.
• Investigate structure–property relationships to optimize material performance for applications.
• Design and execute experiments using spectroscopy, microscopy, and thermal analysis.
• Collaborate with engineering to translate lab findings into scalable manufacturing processes.
• Develop intellectual property through patents and publications.
• Troubleshoot material-related issues in manufacturing and product performance.
• Mentor junior scientists and manage project timelines and resources.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Polymer characterization

Structure-property relations

Mechanical testing

Polymer processing

Project management

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in Materials Science or related

Tools

GPC

DSC

TGA

FTIR

NMR

Computational modeling

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in material science and specialty chemicals, is seeking an accomplished Senior Materials Scientist to join their dynamic R&D division. This role, based in Rustenburg, North West, ZA , will focus on the development and characterization of novel advanced polymer materials for high-performance applications. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge research, working in a hybrid model that balances focused remote work with essential in-person collaboration and laboratory access. You will be at the forefront of innovation, driving material solutions that meet the demanding requirements of industries such as aerospace, automotive, and electronics. This is a critical role for an experienced scientist eager to make a tangible impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research and development projects focused on the synthesis, processing, and characterization of advanced polymer systems.
• Investigate structure-property relationships to optimize material performance for specific applications.
• Design and execute experiments using a range of analytical techniques, including spectroscopy, microscopy, and thermal analysis.
• Collaborate closely with engineering and product development teams to translate laboratory findings into scalable manufacturing processes.
• Develop intellectual property through patent filings and technical publications.
• Troubleshoot material-related issues in manufacturing and product performance.
• Stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies in polymer science and materials engineering.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and research proposals.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians in the R&D team.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in materials science research and development, with a strong focus on polymers.
• Proven expertise in polymer synthesis, characterization techniques (e.g., GPC, DSC, TGA, FTIR, NMR), and mechanical testing.
• Experience with polymer processing methods such as extrusion, injection molding, or additive manufacturing.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex research projects from conception to completion.
• Strong understanding of structure-property relationships in polymeric materials.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Effective communication and presentation skills, suitable for technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment, balancing remote tasks with on-site laboratory work.
• Experience with computational modeling of materials is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits package. This includes excellent health, dental, and vision insurance, a generous retirement savings plan with company matching, and paid time off. Opportunities for professional development, including attendance at industry conferences and workshops, are provided. Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and advanced instrumentation is guaranteed. Employees also benefit from a dynamic work environment that encourages innovation and cross-functional collaboration. Performance-based bonuses and potential for career advancement within a leading global organization are also key components of this role. Relocation assistance may be available for exceptional candidates.