Product Development Engineer

Reporting to the Product Development & Quality Control Manager, this role will lead the design, development, and commercialization of specialty polymer compounds and masterbatches that drive PMC Polymer Products' growth. This is a hands-on, high-impact position responsible for translating customer needs and market opportunities into differentiated formulations, scalable processes, and commercially successful products. The role requires deep technical expertise in polymer compounding, strong problem-solving capability, and the ability to operate at the intersection of R&D, operations, and commercial teams.

RESPONSIBILITIES

In consultation with Commercial Manager and

P.D. & Q.C.

Manager, take lead role in designing and executing meaningful experiments in support of business goals. Interpret experimental results to reach technical conclusions and suggest opportunities for future lab work where warranted. Design and execute structured experimental programs aligned with business priorities; interpret results and translate findings into actionable recommendations. Partner closely with commercial teams to support customer development, including technical presentations, product recommendations, and troubleshooting. Drive scale-up of formulations from lab to production, working cross-functionally with operations and quality teams. Support customer trials, plant trials, and application development efforts to ensure successful product adoption. Identify opportunities for innovation, cost optimization, and performance improvement across product lines. Generate clear, data-driven reports and presentations to communicate progress, insights, and next steps to internal stakeholders. Expertise in formulating compound / masterbatch products. Create reports or presentations for transferring knowledge internally, including monthly project reporting. Ensure all development work aligns with safety, regulatory, and quality standards. Contribute to the expansion of lab capabilities, including evaluation, installation, and implementation of new equipment and processes. All other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

Self-starter mentality with high ownership and accountability Creative thinking; strong decision-making and problem-solving skills Strong expertise in polymer compounding, including additives, fillers, and masterbatch formulation Experience with flame retardant systems (halogenated and non-halogenated) and relevant testing (e.g., UL 94) highly preferred Deep understanding of polymer processing techniques such as extrusion, injection molding, and compounding Highly organized with ability to manage multiple projects at the same time, moving projects forward in a timely manner to completion Strong communication skills with the ability to translate technical concepts with end-use applications Collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively across R&D, operations, quality, and commercial teams Need to promptly react to urgent matters, including but not limited to supporting the QC lab and resolving production issues

WORKING CONDITIONS

Hands-on role with significant time in laboratory and plant environments Customer-facing responsibilities which will include travel for trials, troubleshooting, and technical support (up to ~25%) including travel to industry seminars/conferences Based in or within commuting distance of Stockertown, PA Ability to get along with others and not work in isolation is required

Requirements:

BS degree in Chemistry or Polymer Science preferred 5+ years of experience in polymer compounding, masterbatch development, or related field Demonstrated experience taking formulations from development through commercial production Computer proficiency using Microsoft Office software

Pay:

$75,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location:

In person