Polymer Engineer Full Time

EWI is a world leader in developing and deploying new technologies that enable companies to bridge the gap between R&D and manufacturing implementation. EWI associates are passionate about identifying out-of-the-box options that provide a long-term competitive advantage for our clients. Our clients tell us we are a valuable extension and complement to their innovation, engineering, and manufacturing teams. If you enjoy dealing with customers and solving difficult, technical problems, EWI is the place for you.

We are seeking a highly motivated chemical engineer to join our dynamic Polymers team. This is a unique opportunity to apply your deep knowledge of polymers, gained within the petrochemical or oil and gas industry, to a wide variety of fast-paced, client-driven R&D projects.

You will be a key technical contributor, responsible for everything from material selection and characterization to failure analysis and the development of innovative joining techniques. If you are a hands-on problem-solver who enjoys tackling diverse technical challenges and directly impacting product development, we want to hear from you.

Essential Functions

• Lead Technical Projects & Solve Complex Problems: You will lead applied research projects by identifying and analyzing client problems, logically processing data, and collaborating with project managers and multidisciplinary teams to execute results. This includes designing experimental plans for polymer analysis (DSC, TGA, FTIR, DMA), conducting root-cause failure analysis, and leveraging your deep understanding of polymer joining methods and associated equipment
• Drive Client Engagement & Growth: Act as a key technical contact for our clients. You’ll engage directly with customers to lead conversations and deeply understand their requirements, build strong working relationships to ensure satisfaction, and proactively develop new project opportunities through inquiries and follow-up interactions
• Communicate with Impact: You will be responsible for writing clear, concise, and accurate technical reports, proposals, and project documents. A key part of your role will be effectively delivering oral presentations meant to inform and persuade both internal teams and external clients
• Contribute to Innovation & Professional Growth: Actively seek out educational and training opportunities to demonstrate continuous growth and stay current. You will offer strategic input on the focus of our internal R&D (IRD) funding and may develop proposals for new technology development

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

Minimum Requirements

• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in polymer material selection and joining methods for challenging service conditions (high pressure, high temperature, sour service, subsea, etc.)
• Strong practical knowledge of standard polymer characterization and mechanical testing methods
• Working knowledge of relevant industry standards (e.g., API, NACE, NORSOK, ASME, DNV)
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience working with high-performance thermoplastics (e.g., PEEK, PPS), fluoropolymers, elastomers, and/or composites
• Knowledge of polymer processing techniques such as injection molding or extrusion
• Proficiency in executing scientific research and performing experimental analysis
• Existing understanding of technical challenges in key markets including, but not limited to, oil and gas, petrochemical, energy, and other related industries
• Utilizes judgment in communication styles and behaviors; recognizes impact on other team members
• Exhibits proficient written and verbal communication with customers both internal and external
• Analyzes and understands impact of individual contribution to project financial performance
• Proven adaptability and flexibility as a part of team
• Ability to maintain excellent customer relationships both internal and external
• Proven success in a team-oriented environment
• Strong ability to plan and organize tasks
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office software
• Willingness to travel (10%) to customers and conferences

Physical Requirements

• Office environment and laboratory/light production floor with ventilation, climate-control system, moderate lighting, and moderate noise level;
• Use finger and hand dexterity to type, adjust, move, handle, perform, operate, install, attach, remove, apply, grasp, grip, manipulate, and measure;
• Use vision to see, analyze, and adjust;
• Frequently move, transport, rotate, reach, pull, twist, adjust position, push, stand, stoop, bend and crouch; and
• Lift ten to 20 pounds on a frequent basis and 40 to 80 pounds occasionally

Education

• B.S. in Chemical Engineering or closely related field
• M.S. or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science Engineering is preferred

Experience

• Three (3) or more years of relevant, hands-on experience in a polymer engineering role within the petrochemical, oil and gas, energy, or a directly related industry
• Experience in a client facing or project management role

EOE/M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status

EXPORT CONTROLS – This position requires access to information and technology that is subject to U.S. export controls. To conform to U.S. export control regulations, applicant should be eligible for any required authorizations from the U.S. Government.

Accommodations

Individuals who need reasonable accommodations under the ADA in order to participate in the search and/or application process should contact Human Resources at (614) 688-5000.