Polymer Scientist · Wallingford, CT

Join Nel and help advance one of the world’s most critical energy technologies.

At Nel, you will work at the forefront of hydrogen innovation – helping solve complex materials science challenges that directly impact electrolyzer performance, durability, and cost. In this role, you will combine deep technical expertise with hands‑on experimentation, contributing to the next generation of polymer and membrane technologies.

You will collaborate across R&D, engineering, and external research partners, playing a key role in translating scientific insight into practical solutions. This is an opportunity to make a tangible impact on the green energy transition while working in a highly skilled, collaborative team environment.

Polymer / Membrane Scientist
. Serve as a subject matter expert in ion‑exchange materials within R&D programs. Contribute expertise in measurement methods and degradation mechanisms while acting as a key liaison between Nel and external researchers and suppliers.

• Work closely with Materials Scientists and Chemical Engineers to develop advanced electrodes that drive electrolyzer cost reduction and efficiency improvements.
• Characterize polymer materials using methods such as:
  • Acid/base titration
  • Water uptake and swelling analysis
  • Conductivity measurements
  • Mechanical property testing
• Collaborate with external partners including national labs, universities, and component suppliers to develop and characterize materials and components.
• Apply engineering fundamentals to solve practical problems and develop robust component specifications aligned with product requirements.
• Communicate progress, risks, and results clearly to technical teams, project management, and senior leadership.
• Stay current with industry trends in membrane and ionomer technologies.
• Use data analysis to identify improvement opportunities and recommend next steps.
• Contribute to special projects as required.

• MS or PhD in Chemistry with a focus on polymeric materials, or equivalent.
• 0‑7 years of relevant experience (depending on degree level).
• Strong understanding of material and mechanical properties of coatings, polymer membranes, and backing polymers.
• Experience with verification and characterization methods such as microscopy, SEM, XPS, etc.
• Excellent analytical and experimental skills.
• Ability to work independently, design experiments, interpret results, and identify next steps.
• Proven problem‑solving ability in addressing technical challenges.
• Experience working in multidisciplinary environments with strong interpersonal and professional judgment skills.
• Strong organizational skills, including documentation, record keeping, and follow‑through.

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.

• An opportunity to work in a company in strong growth and a leading position in the market.
• A visible role with many exciting interfaces, internally and externally.
• The opportunity to work in a global company that contributes to the green transition.
• A dynamic and highly professional working environment consisting of competent and committed colleagues.
• Nel Hydrogen provides comprehensive health and insurance benefits for its employees as well as a short‑term incentive program.
• The Company offers competitive paid vacation time, sick leave, and holidays.

• Nel will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States. This is not a position for which sponsorship will be provided.
• Individuals with temporary visas such as E, F‑1, H‑1, H‑2, L, B, J, or TN or who need sponsorship for work authorization now or in the future, are not eligible for hire.

We are an equal opportunity employer‑M/F/Disabled/Veteran and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit, and business need. Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws: )