Staff Engineer - Polymers

Staff Engineer – Materials Innovation (Polymers)

Shape the future of food & beverage packaging. Join our Materials Innovation team as a Staff Engineer, where you’ll play a critical technical leadership role advancing polypropylene and related polymers that redefine performance, sustainability, and manufacturability in packaging.

This high‑visibility role for a seasoned polymer expert will own innovation from raw material selection through processing and end‑use performance, focusing on in‑line thermoforming and injection molding for cup, lid, and container platforms.

Mason, MI or Randleman, NC. Remote option available for candidates not based at a facility location, with 60–70% travel to facilities.

• Provide expert leadership in polypropylene and polymer materials science and manufacturing, driving processing optimization and superior packaging performance.
• Lead optimization of materials for in‑line thermoforming and injection molding and support other key manufacturing technologies.
• Analyze production data, translate insights into recommendations, and own implementation from concept to commercial outcomes.
• Mentor colleagues in polymer characterization techniques.
• Develop cross‑functional partnerships with innovation, operations, and specialists in paper substrates and molded fiber.
• Track competitive landscapes, industry trends, and emerging material innovations.
• Apply project management expertise to shepherd high‑priority initiatives from ideation to commercialization.

• Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering with emphasis in Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• 10+ years of industrial experience with polypropylene in food and beverage packaging or related engineering.
• Hands‑on expertise in in‑line thermoforming (post‑trim/trims) and injection molding for PP and other polymers.
• Proven track record in polymer characterization, property‑structure‑function driven outcomes, multi‑site data analysis, and mentoring technical professionals.
• Demonstrated success in cross‑functional collaboration, project leadership, and end‑to‑end ownership of impactful results.
• Solid understanding of competitive dynamics and emerging trends in polymers, paper substrates, and molded fiber packaging.
• Strong analytical skills – knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, and statistics.
• Advanced knowledge of materials, production processes, quality control, and cost optimization techniques.
• Aptitude for logical reasoning, prioritization, organization of long‑term research projects, and deadlines.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to travel up to 50% of the time; additional travel may be required.
• Work environment includes office, lab, or production facility as needed.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office – Word, Excel, PowerPoint.

• Knowledge of sustainable chemistries and processes, including recyclability, EPR regulations, and bio‑based materials.
• Demonstrated innovation through patents, publications, or commercialized products.

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• 401(k) with company matching contributions.
• Paid vacation, paid holidays, and short‑term disability.
• Tuition assistance and product discounts.

Dart Container is a drug‑free workplace. Candidates are subject to a drug test (excluding THC/**/marijuana/cannabis) and background check at the time of offer.

THC testing ONLY when required by law.

Dart Container is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all candidates for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

If you have a disability and need an accommodation to access the website or application process, contact Dart at (800) 545‑3278 or email