Topgolf

Senior Materials Engineer - Golf Ball R&D

Topgolf$97K — $145K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • MS or PhD in Materials Science/Engineering, Polymer Science, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering; relevant industry experience considered.
  • 5+ years of experience in polymer materials research or application engineering, ideally in sporting goods or consumer products.
  • Ability to translate materials research into commercially viable products with targeted performance attributes.
  • Experience with technical publications, patents, or contributions to materials innovation preferred.
  • Strong collaboration skills with cross-functional teams in engineering and product development.

Responsibilities

  • Lead R&D projects to design and evaluate materials for future golf ball products.
  • Execute and interpret advanced materials characterization and testing results.
  • Develop structure-property-performance relationships for material performance attributes.
  • Provide technical leadership on material selection and processing trade-offs.
  • Collaborate with testing and engineering teams to integrate new materials into commercial products.
  • Maintain technical relationships with suppliers to develop and qualify materials.
  • Document and communicate technical findings and project statuses to stakeholders.

Benefits

  • Opportunities for mentorship and knowledge sharing across teams.
  • Access to state-of-the-art laboratory equipment and technology.
  • Involvement in innovative golf product development that enhances player experience.
  • Opportunity for domestic and international travel for projects and collaborations.
  • Work in a professional office environment with support for work-life balance.
Full Job Description
JOB OVERVIEW

Callaway Golf is looking for a Senior Materials Engineer to join our Golf Ball R&D team, to help develop the materials technologies that will enable future golf ball performance. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in polymer or materials science and the ability to translate fundamental material understanding into practical solutions that improve product performance and the player experience. This role will provide the opportunity to lead complex R&D projects, work closely with cross-functional teams and material suppliers, and influence the development of future golf ball platforms. The successful candidate will be a technically curious individual who enjoys solving challenging problems and applying materials innovation to real-world products.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Lead R&D projects to identify, design, develop, and evaluate materials for use in future-generation golf ball products.
  • Design, execute, and interpret advanced materials characterization and testing results, including the development of new methods and equipment where required.
  • Apply materials science principles to develop structure-property-performance relationships, linking material structure with on-ball performance attributes.
  • Provide technical leadership and recommendations on material selection, formulation, processing, and performance trade-offs to support product development decisions.
  • Partner with testing, prototyping, engineering, and manufacturing teams to evaluate materials and drive the successful integration of new material systems and manufacturing processes into scalable commercial products.
  • Establish and maintain strong technical relationships with material suppliers to evaluate, develop and qualify materials for future and existing products.
  • Document and communicate technical findings, project status, risks, and recommendations to cross-functional stakeholders.
  • Serve as a technical subject matter expert, providing materials expertise to support product messaging, technical communications, and internal/external education materials.
  • Serve as a technical subject matter expert, providing materials expertise, mentoring team members, and supporting knowledge sharing across materials R&D and broader technical teams.


TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES
  • Strong understanding of polymer materials science, including structure-property relationships, polymer chemistry, and material behavior.
  • Experience with polymer systems including elastomers, thermoplastics, thermosets, and polymer-based composite materials.
  • Ability to characterize materials and interpret data using appropriate analytical techniques (e.g., spectroscopy, thermal analysis, chromatography) and mechanical testing methods.
  • Understanding of polymer processing technologies, including injection molding, compression molding, extrusion, and related manufacturing processes.
  • Ability to evaluate material solutions against multiple competing requirements, including mechanical properties, processability, manufacturability, and product performance.
  • Ability to assess supplier technologies and collaborate with external partners to identify, develop, and qualify new material solutions.
  • Ability to communicate complex technical concepts effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, and timelines simultaneously.


EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
  • MS or PhD in Materials Science/Engineering, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical discipline; equivalent relevant industry experience considered.
  • 5+ years of experience in polymer materials research, development, or application engineering, ideally within sporting goods, consumer products, or other performance-driven industries.
  • Demonstrated ability to translate materials research and innovation into commercially viable products that deliver targeted performance attributes.
  • Experience with technical publications, patents, or other documented contributions to materials innovation preferred.
  • Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including engineering, manufacturing, testing, and product development stakeholders.


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS / WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • Work is performed in a designated professional office workstation and environment.
  • Extensive use of general office and relevant laboratory equipment.
  • Occasionally required to lift and/or carry up to 30 pounds.
  • Occasionally required to travel domestically and/or internationally.


DISCLAIMER

This job description indicates in general terms, the type and level of work performed as well as the typical responsibilities of employees in this classification and it may be changed by management at any time. Other duties may also apply. Nothing in this position description changes the at-will employment relationship existing between the Company and its employees. Distribution of this item outside of the Company without an authorized release is a violation of Company policy.

ARE YOU READY TO MAKE THE TURN? APPLY TODAY!
97,200.00 - 121,450.00 - 145,700.00 USD Annual

About Topgolf

Topgolf is a global sports entertainment company that offers a unique golfing experience. The company's venues feature a high-tech driving range, food and beverage service, and interactive games that are designed for players of all skill levels. Topgolf was founded in 2000 and is headquartered in Dallas, Texas. The company has more than 60 locations in the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia. Topgolf is known for its innovative approach to golf and its commitment to creating a fun and engaging experience for its customers.
Learn more about Topgolf
Size
24,000 employees
Industry
Founded
2000

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