Responsibilities

We are seeking a highly motivated, hands-on Materials Engineer with experience in polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) within a production environment. This role blends traditional materials engineering with modern, data-driven approaches by leveraging programming, automation, and advanced analytics to improve material performance, consistency, and cost.
The ideal candidate is a self-starter with strong curiosity and a bias for action, comfortable working at the intersection of materials science, manufacturing, and digital technology. You will play a critical role in supporting 24/7 production operations, partnering closely with manufacturing, quality, and materials teams to solve problems in real time while driving continuous improvement.
This is a high-impact, future-oriented position within a growth industry and market leader, offering the opportunity to work alongside a strong team of experienced engineers and subject matter experts. You will contribute directly to advancing how materials are developed, evaluated, and optimized-helping shape the next generation of products and processes through innovation, sustainability, and the application of modern technology.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Support daily material decision-making for raw materials and blend silos to ensure manufacturing requirements (specifications, volumes, and availability) are consistently met
• Develop and recommend material blending strategies, including batch deviations, silo assignments, and blend formulations to achieve required molded part performance
• Partner closely with the Materials Processing team to manage the daily blending of recycled and virgin polymers, ensuring optimal use of wide-spec and prime materials
• Interpret polymer test data in collaboration with the in-house lab and translate results into clear, actionable process and material adjustments
• Evaluate incoming and purchased recycled materials; recommend sourcing decisions based on material properties, performance, and cost
• Drive material cost optimization while maintaining strict adherence to part performance specifications
• Provide technical expertise in PP/PE materials and recycled polymers, supporting both production and ongoing material development initiatives
• Apply data-driven and analytical approaches, including programming or automation tools where applicable, to improve material selection, blending decisions, and process efficiency
• Maintain close collaboration with the in-house polymer laboratory, ensuring effective use of testing capabilities to support rapid, informed decision-making
• Actively support 24/7 production operations, including availability to respond to critical material or process issues as needed
• Continuously identify and implement opportunities for process improvement, material innovation, and increased operational efficiency across materials and manufacturing workflows

EXPERIENCE, EDUCATIONAL, AND TECHNICAL QUALIFICATIONS:
• 3-5 years of hands-on experience working with polypropylene (PP) and/or polyethylene (PE) materials in a manufacturing, R&D, or materials engineering environment
• Experience with recycled or reprocessed PP/PE materials preferred, but not required
• Bachelor's degree required in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a closely related field
• Demonstrated understanding of plastic-property relationships, particularly for PP and PE systems
• Familiarity with polymer testing and characterization methods (e.g., mechanical testing, thermal analysis, rheology, or similar) preferred
• Exposure to plastic processing methods (e.g., injection molding, extrusion, compounding) is a plus
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret material performance and support formulation or process decisions
• Experience or coursework in programming, data analysis, or databases (e.g., Python, SQL, MATLAB, or similar) strongly preferred
• Interest or experience in machine learning, AI, or data-driven materials development is highly desirable
• Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams (engineering, manufacturing, quality, and procurement)
• Self-driven with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a hands-on, fast-paced environment
• Demonstrated teamwork and collaboration skills with ability to lead and influence peers
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills and experience working with AI agents.
• Must be willing to work in the Lexington, KY area

#HP

Company Benefits:

Health & Welfare Benefits: Medical and prescription drug plans, telemedicine (with medical plan), High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) and Health Savings Account (HSA), dental and vision plans, virtual physical therapy*, an employee assistance program (EAP)*, and voluntary accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnification programs.

Financial Benefits: Retirement 401k program with company match, an employee stock purchase plan (voluntary), financial wellness planning*, paid parental leave*, flexible spending accounts (FSA) for child care and health care, short-term and long-term disability*, basic life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D)*, adoption financial reimbursement*, tuition reimbursement*, voluntary life insurance (for employees, spouses, and children), and voluntary identity theft and fraud protection.

*100% paid by ADS.