Research Scientist — Polymer Product and Process Development

Job overview

The Research Scientist role is onsite in Gaston, SC, and compensation is not specified. Alpek Polyester USA produces PTA, PET resins, recycled PET, and specialty polymers, with a stated commitment to innovation and sustainability. The role exists to turn research and technical opportunities into manufacturable, commercially relevant solutions. It advances product performance and manufacturing capability through polymer research, process improvement, scale-up, data analysis, and cross-functional technical leadership.

What you'll do

• Lead research and development projects for new products, process improvements, and specialty polymer applications
• design and execute experiments
• develop and evaluate polymer formulations and processing conditions
• translate laboratory findings into pilot- and commercial-scale implementation
• coordinate manufacturing trials and analyze results
• collaborate with Operations, Engineering, Quality, Technical Marketing, Commercial, and Sustainability teams
• analyze data and recommend improvements
• mentor laboratory personnel and project teams
• support equipment evaluation and implementation
• maintain laboratory procedures, test methods, and technical documentation
• manage project priorities, timelines, and resources
• represent R&D on cross-functional initiatives.

What we're looking for

Skills & competencies

research scientist

polymer science

product development

process improvement

scale-up

pet resins

rpet

polyester manufacturing

gaston sc

alpek polyester usa

10%–30% travel

Work arrangement

• Weekend coverage required

Why this role

Research spans laboratory concepts through pilot or manufacturing implementation; travel of approximately 10%–30% is stated.

About the employer

Alpek Polyester USA is hiring for this role. Industry: Plastics Material and Resin Manufacturing. Sector: 32.