Sr Research Engineer - Polymer Materials

James Hardie Corporation; Wilmington (OH); On-site; USD 120,000 - 135,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and bonus eligibility

Paid Time Off

401(k) with 6% match

Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESP)

Parental leave

Wellness programs

Job summary

James Hardie Corporation is seeking a Sr Research Engineer - Polymer Materials based at our Wilmington, OH plant. You will develop and evaluate PVC formulations, optimize manufacturing processes, and support innovative initiatives in material science.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD in relevant fields and has strong knowledge in polymer chemistry and engineering. You will work with cross-functional teams and play a key role in integrating AI technologies into material development.

Qualifications

• PhD in Polymer Science or similar with 0–7 years of experience, or MS with 3–10 years.
• Strong knowledge of PVC materials and engineering principles.
• Experience in AI-assisted material characterization.

Responsibilities

• Develop and evaluate PVC formulations.
• Support PVC extrusion and compounding processes.
• Design and execute experimental plans for characterization.

Skills

Polymer chemistry

Polymer engineering

AI-assisted material characterizations

Strong communication skills

Education

PhD in Polymer Science, Polymer Engineering, Materials Science, or Chemical Engineering

MS with 3–10 years of experience

Tools

DSC

TGA

DMA

Rheometry

Job description

Onsite

Sr Research Engineer - Polymer Materials

This position can be based at our Wilmington, OH or Fontana, CA plant

What You’ll Do:

Key Responsibilities

Polymer Formulation & Materials Development

Develop, optimize, and evaluate PVC formulations, including base resins, stabilizer systems, lubricants, impact modifiers, process aids, fillers, and pigments. Apply fundamental polymer science and engineering principles (polymer thermodynamics, viscoelasticity, molecular weight effects, phase behavior, and degradation mechanisms) to guide formulation design. Demonstrate strong understanding of PVC-specific behavior, including fusion/gelation, thermal stability, shear sensitivity, rheology, and morphology development. Establish and interpret structure–property–processing relationships to balance durability, mechanical performance, surface quality, and manufacturability. Conduct laboratory‑scale compounding, extrusion, and molding to support new product, cost, and sustainability initiatives. Drive AI‑assisted material characterizations and formulation development.

Process & Manufacturing Support

Support PVC extrusion and compounding processes, including formulation‑driven troubleshooting of surface defects, instability, degradation, dimensional control, and throughput limitations. Apply polymer processing fundamentals (heat transfer, shear and elongational flow, residence time, die swell, cooling, and orientation effects) to diagnose and resolve manufacturing issues. Partner with manufacturing, quality, and process engineering teams to scale laboratory formulations to robust, high‑yield production. Support pilot‑scale and plant trials.

Testing & Characterization

Design and execute experimental plans using thermal, mechanical, rheological, and environmental characterization techniques (DSC, TGA, DMA, rheometry, weathering, impact, tensile, flexural). Interpret data using first‑principles understanding of polymer behavior and PVC material response. Maintain high standards for documentation and technical rigor.

Project Management & Technical Communication

Plan and execute technical projects with defined scope and milestones. Communicate complex polymer concepts clearly through written reports and presentations. Collaborate with suppliers and internal stakeholders.

What You’ll Bring:

Required Qualifications

PhD in Polymer Science, Polymer Engineering, Materials Science, or Chemical Engineering with 0–7 years of experience, or MS with 3–10 years of experience.

Strong fundamental knowledge of polymer chemistry and polymer engineering. Deep understanding of PVC materials including stabilization chemistry, fusion behavior, degradation mechanisms, and extrusion processing.

Experience in AI‑assisted material characterizations and formulation development for composite materials.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Travel –35% (mainly domestic)

Preferred Qualifications

Hands‑on experience with PVC compounding, extrusion, or formulation development. Experience supporting high‑volume manufacturing or pilot‑scale operations. Familiarity with building materials and durability requirements.

What You’ll Receive:

As of the date of this posting, a good faith estimate of the current pay scale for this position is $120,000 - $135,000. Placement in the range depends on several factors such as experience, skills, geography and internal equity and may change over time. This position qualifies for benefits and you will be eligible to participate in a bonus plan.

At James Hardie, we recognize that our success depends on our people. We've worked hard to build a generous and competitive benefits program that demonstrates our commitment to our employees.

• Compensation: competitive salary and bonus eligibility
• Paid Time Off: vacation and company holidays
• Retirement: 401(k) with 6% match
• Investments: Employee Stock Purchase plan (ESP)
• Work-Life Balance: parental leave, wellness programs
• Purpose. Impact. Community:Sustainability Initiatives | James Hardie

James Hardie Building Products Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, veteran's status, marital status, pregnancy, disability, or any other basis protected by law.

James Hardie will comply with any applicable state and local laws regarding employee leave benefits, including, but not limited to providing time off pursuant to the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, in accordance with its plans and policies.

The position responsibilities outlined above are in no way to be construed as all encompassing. Other duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may be required and/or assigned as necessary.