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Eastman · 1 day ago

PhD Polymer Process Development Engineer

Kingsport, TN

Full-time

Onsite

New Grad, Entry Level

Eastman is a global specialty materials company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day. They are seeking polymer process scientists and engineers to develop and optimize polymer processing technologies, collaborating with cross-functional teams to bring innovations to market.

Advanced MaterialsChemicalManufacturing

H1B Sponsor Likely

Responsibilities

Lead polymer process development and optimization across lab, pilot, and commercial scales—covering startup/shutdown, equipment setup, and process optimization—to achieve precise control over melt behavior, minimize defects, and ensure consistent product performance

Lead efforts to optimize polymer processing for film and injection molding applications, ensuring superior product quality and consistency that align with customer expectations and market demands

Diagnose and resolve root causes for polymer processing challenges and optimize rework strategies and material blends

Define scope and lead capital/technology scouting, vendor trials, safety reviews, and ROI recommendations

Coach technicians/operators, lead pilot and plant trials, and prepare technical reports and IP disclosures. Support presentations to customers and executive leadership

Champion Zero-Incident Mindset for Safety, LOTO, preventive maintenance, and RCAs

Partner with colleagues as part of cross-functional teams including technology, manufacturing, businesses, HSES, Engineering and other functions to drive process improvement, growth programs and business initiatives

Enhance professional growth and technical awareness by keeping abreast of technical literature in the field and pursuing relevant training while developing areas of interest and expertise

Serve as a trusted technical partner by engaging directly with customers and global Eastman teams to resolve complex processing challenges, provide expert guidance, and represent the company with professionalism in all customer-facing interactions

Qualification

Ph.D. in Polymer SciencePolymer melt rheologyPolymer characterizationSPC/DOE techniquesMechanical knowledgeData tooling JMP/MinitabEffective communicationSelf-starterCollaboration skills

Required

Ph.D. in Polymer Science, Polymer Chemistry, Macromolecular Science, Materials Science, Polymer/Chemical Engineering, or related field

Deep practical understanding of polymer melt rheology as it affects polymer processing, such as sheet/film formation or injection molding

Proven ability to diagnose and resolve common polymer processing defects and implement robust rework strategies

Practical knowledge of polymer characterization (e.g. rheometry, DSC/TGA, FTIR, tensile, GPC/SPEC) and structure–property interpretation

Experience applying SPC/DOE and process control techniques; comfortable with gauge R&R and statistical analysis of process/performance data

Effective communication and influencing skills — able to distill data and present clear recommendations across technical and non‑technical stakeholders

Self-starter: independently prioritize work, manage multiple projects, and drive technical decisions to closure

Ability to apply mechanical knowledge in real-world settings to diagnose issues, implement solutions, and ensure process reliability

Preferred

Experience in piloting and industrial manufacturing with polymer melt processing and thermoplastic processing

Experience in polymer film applications with critical quality requirements such as optical clarity, haze, lamination readiness, and adhesion consistency

Direct melt extrusion experience (single and/or twin screw) with demonstrated scaleup from lab/pilot to commercial lines

Familiarity with roll-to-roll/web handling; inline thickness gauges (optical/Xray); slot dies; R2R equipment

Apply comprehensive knowledge of injection molding processes and equipment across all molding applications

Experience leading equipment implementation, vendor trials, or capital projects; exposure to Lean/Six Sigma and ISO/GMP/IATF environments

Data tooling: JMP/Minitab and/or Python for DOE and analysis

Record of patents, publications, or external technical collaborations

Benefits

Base pay plus performance-based incentive opportunities that let you share in our success.

Comprehensive medical, prescription-drug, and dental coverage—paired with a Health Savings Account option to help you save tax-free dollars for care today or in the future.

A robust menu of voluntary benefits—including vision, optional life, critical-illness protection, and more—so you can tailor coverage to fit your life.

Holistic wellness support: financial-planning tools, family-building assistance (adoption, pregnancy, and fertility resources), parental leave, and confidential Employee Assistance Program counseling.

401(k) with a company match—plus an additional annual retirement contribution from Eastman to accelerate your long-term savings.

Eleven paid holidays, one personal day, paid time off, and paid vacation to recharge, celebrate, or handle life’s moments.

Access to mentorship, learning resources, and leadership programs that empower you to thrive in your current role and chart the next steps in your career.

Company

Eastman

Glassdoor3.7

Founded in 1920, Eastman is a global specialty materials company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day.

Founded in 1920

Kingsport, Tennessee, USA

10001+ employees

https://www.eastman.com/pages/home.aspx

H1B Sponsorship

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2023 (1)