Polymer Engineer

15h15 hours ago

Shellworks

London, GB · Full-time · £30,000 – £40,000

About this role

Join Shellworks as a Polymer Engineer and help materialise a better future by eliminating plastic pollution. Plastics have caused significant pollution to natural environments, with 90% never recycled and impacts on health from chemicals and microplastics. Vivomer, our innovation made by microorganisms, behaves like plastic in use but degrades upon disposal in any natural environment.

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 create game-changing products. Develop and trial 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. Join a tightly knit team driven by the challenge to prove there is a better way. Contribute directly to reducing plastic pollution through cutting-edge material science, mechanical engineering, design, and operations.

Play a critical role in scaling sustainable, high-performance alternatives to conventional plastics. Enjoy opportunities for growth and development as we expand our impact. Benefit from regular social events, a fully stocked office kitchen, and generous holidays including 21 days plus birthday off.

Requirements

Holds a degree in Polymer Processing, Materials Science, or a related field, with at least 1 year of industry experience
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
Solid skills in experimental design, with passion for experimentation, data analysis, validation, and documentation
Proactive, results-driven mindset and strong willingness to learn in a hands-on role
Creative and critical thinking to continuously improve material processes and solve tough problems

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 of polymer blends for sustainable applications
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
4 days in office, 1 day working from home