Materials Engineer - Scientist

Latham, The Pool Company•Zephyrhills, FL

2d•$90,000 - $110,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Material Scientist will lead the development, characterization, and optimization of materials used across the company’s product portfolio. This role blends hands‑on laboratory work with deep scientific analysis to advance composite performance, improve manufacturability, and support customer‑driven innovation. The scientist will collaborate closely with R&D, production, quality, and commercial teams to translate material science insights into scalable, high‑value solutions.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Material Science, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science or Composites and 4+ years of experience or a Ph.D. and 2+ years of experience
Good research background with focus on materials such as fiber reinforced composites, polymers (Epoxy, Polyester & Polyurethane), nanomaterials, thermoset resins, recycled materials and hybrid composites
Understanding of fiber–matrix interactions, interface chemistry, and failure mechanisms
Experience evaluating adhesion, chemical resistance, and environmental sustainability
Material characterization techniques- Mechanical testing, QUV, rheology, blister test, FTIR, XRD, DSC, and DMA
Knowledge of epoxy curing mechanisms, toughening agents, diluents, and adhesion promoters,
Understanding of polyester synthesis, styrene reactivity, cure kinetics and polymerization mechanisms
Ability to tailor mechanical and chemical resistance properties through formulation
Knowledge of fiberglass/epoxy composite material, damage mechanics, and manufacturing processes (Open molding, Resin transfer molding, and compression molding etc.)
Experience with fiber reinforced composite material, resin system, additive technology (3D printing) and process.
Familiarity with statistical design of experiments (DOE) and data analysis tools

Responsibilities

Research and select alternative composite material and processes for fiberglass pool structural applications.
Investigate structure–property relationships to improve mechanical, thermal, and chemical performance.
Develop new resin chemistries aligned with market needs, sustainability goals, and regulatory requirements.
Stay up to date with advancements in composite material engineering technology and manufacturing techniques, seek opportunities to innovate and improve existing designs and processes.
Lead material characterization, testing and material specification development.
Interpretate ASTM Testing Specifications and define in-house tests that are aligned with the ASTM specification.
Define and maintain detailed material specifications and evaluation processes and generate detailed reports on test results.
Develop predictive protocol, define correlation of material and process with product failure mode and life span.
Drive experimental design and alternative process to improve manufacturing quality and productivity.
Scale up the laboratory prototyping to production at all manufacturing facilities.
Interface with manufacturing engineering and production technician to improve process, troubleshoot issues and facilitate operations across all manufacturing plants.
Coordinate with supplier, external and in house test labs.
Lead material selection, evaluation, and development in other business units.
Other duties as assigned.