Senior Polymer Engineer

16h16 hours ago

Shellworks

London, GB · Full-time · £40,000 – £50,000

About this role

Join Shellworks as a Senior Polymer Engineer and help materialise a better future by eliminating plastic pollution. Vivomer, a polymer made by microorganisms, behaves just like plastic in use but degrades upon disposal in any natural environment. Developed through cutting-edge material science, it represents a groundbreaking step towards a pollution-free future.

Collaborate closely with science and engineering teams to develop and optimise new material formulations and blends with improved physical and mechanical properties. Source and work with novel biomaterials from around the world to make game-changing products. Develop and trial material formulations in industrial polymer processes including compounding, injection molding, blow molding, and extrusion.

Work with suppliers on new materials, including incoming material analysis, testing, and qualification. Be part of a tightly knit team driven by the challenge to prove there is a better way. The nature of our work is frequently described as impossible, but you will play a critical role in developing the future of materials.

This unique opportunity helps scale sustainable, high-performance alternatives to conventional plastics. Opportunities for growth and development arise as we expand and scale our impact. Contribute directly to reducing plastic pollution through hands-on innovation.

Requirements

Holds a degree in Polymer Processing, Materials Science, or a related field, with at least 3 years of industry experience
Proactive, results-driven mindset and strong willingness to learn in a hands-on role requiring curiosity and initiative
Solid skills in experimental design, with passion for experimentation, data analysis, validation, and thorough documentation
Creative and critical thinking to continuously improve material processes and solve tough problems with smart, simple solutions
Proficiency in polymer processing techniques such as extrusion, injection molding, compounding, and blow molding
Experienced in polymer characterisation methods, including thermal analysis, rheology, mechanical testing, and microscopy

Responsibilities

Collaborate closely with science and engineering teams to develop and optimise new material formulations and blends with improved physical and mechanical properties
Source and work with novel biomaterials from around the world to make game-changing products
Develop and trial material formulations in industrial polymer processes including compounding, injection molding, blow molding, and extrusion
Work with suppliers on new materials, including incoming material analysis, testing and qualification
Optimise physical and mechanical properties through polymer processing techniques such as extrusion, injection molding, and compounding
Characterise polymers using thermal analysis, rheology, mechanical testing, and microscopy

Benefits

21 days holiday + birthday off + 27-31st December, in addition to all statutory and public holidays
Opportunities for growth and development as we expand and scale our impact
Regular social events and fully stocked office kitchen
Part of a tightly knit team aiming to make a meaningful social impact