Principal Investigator - Polymer Materials Scientist

Plum, PA
Full Time
Experienced
Principal Investigator – Polymer Materials Scientist
Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Job Reference Code: ASDTA
Status: Full-Time Regular
Department: Technical Consulting

Job Summary

RJ Lee Group is seeking a Principal Investigator – Polymer Materials Scientist to join their collaborative, innovation-driven team. In this role, you will work closely with senior leaders and junior scientists to design, execute, and lead complex materials characterization projects focused on foreign material identification, failure analysis, and property measurement. You’ll use advanced instrumentation, expand your technical and leadership skills, and contribute directly to client success across multiple industries. Ideal candidates will have an M.S. or Ph.D. in a related field, strong hands-on experience with materials characterization techniques, programming skills in MATLAB or Python, and a passion for continuous learning, innovation, and teamwork.


About the Job:

Are you ready to take your expertise in polymer materials to the next level—and make an impact that matters? At RJ Lee Group, we believe scientific innovation thrives when every team member’s unique perspective, skills, and curiosity are encouraged and celebrated. We are seeking a Principal Investigator – Polymer Materials Scientist to join our collaborative, dynamic team, where your contributions will directly drive meaningful solutions for clients across a wide range of industries.


In this role, you won't just "work on projects"—you'll play a key role in shaping how challenges are solved. You’ll partner closely with senior technical leaders and emerging scientists to plan, design, and execute complex materials characterization studies that support both internal research and external client objectives. Your work will focus on the identification of foreign materials, failure analysis, and measurement of material properties using cutting-edge instrumentation and techniques.
We are committed to your professional growth and success. You will have the opportunity to expand your technical skill set, take on increasing project ownership, and collaborate across disciplines in a supportive environment that values mentorship, knowledge-sharing, and continuous learning. As you grow in this role, you will be empowered to lead projects, interact directly with clients, and contribute new ideas that push the boundaries of our science.
At RJ Lee Group, we know that the best results come from diverse teams working together toward a common goal. We encourage you to bring your unique talents, innovative thinking, and passion for discovery into everything you do here. Your contributions will be seen, valued, and have a tangible impact on both the scientific community and the industries we serve.

What You’ll Do:
  • Collaborate with a diverse team of senior and junior scientists to design and execute high-impact materials characterization projects.
  • Assist in the planning and development of experimental protocols, learning how to translate client challenges into actionable scientific approaches.
  • Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data using a range of advanced characterization techniques.
  • Communicate technical findings clearly and effectively to clients through detailed reports and presentations.
  • Develop autonomy by leading smaller independent projects and building your project management and client engagement skills.
  • Stay curious—explore new analytical methods, emerging technologies, and creative approaches to materials problem-solving.
What You’ll Bring:
  • A strong desire to learn, grow, and apply your knowledge creatively to solve complex problems.
  • M.S. or Ph.D. in Polymer Science, Physics, Materials Science, Biomaterials, or a related discipline.
  • Hands-on experience with materials characterization techniques such as SEM, TEM, XRD, XPS, EBSD, FTIR, Raman, TGA/DSC, GC-MS, ICP, EDS, etc.
  • Strong experimental and critical thinking skills with an eagerness to troubleshoot and innovate.
  • Ability to work independently while contributing to and supporting a collaborative team environment.
  • Programming experience in MATLAB or Python is strongly preferred.
  • Familiarity with AI tools for data analysis or materials research is a plus.
What We Offer:
  • A highly collaborative environment where scientific curiosity is nurtured and contributions are celebrated.
  • Direct mentorship from industry-recognized experts.
  • Opportunities for continuous training and development.
  • The ability to lead projects and build relationships with high-profile clients.
  • Access to a wide array of state-of-the-art laboratory instrumentation.
  • A culture that values integrity, scientific rigor, innovation, and inclusion.
  • Competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits package.
  • Paid time off benefits.
  • Medical, dental, vision, and medical/dependent care flexible benefits.
  • Group life insurance and disability insurance.
  • 401(k) savings and investment program.
Why RJ Lee Group:

At RJ Lee Group, science drives solutions. Our team of scientists, engineers, and industry specialists works side-by-side with clients to tackle complex challenges—whether it’s investigating product failures, analyzing environmental contaminants, or uncovering the properties of advanced materials. We don’t just deliver data; we provide clear, actionable insights that help our clients make critical decisions with confidence.
Our greatest strength is our people: passionate, curious, and deeply knowledgeable experts who bring technical excellence and real-world understanding to every project. When you join RJ Lee Group, you become part of a collaborative environment where your expertise, ideas, and drive make a difference every day. Here, your work contributes not only to client success but also to advancing science in industries that matter.

About Us:

RJ Lee Group is a trusted leader in scientific consulting, laboratory testing, and materials analysis, serving industries that demand precision and reliability. With over 40 years of experience, we are known for our expertise in materials characterization, environmental testing, forensic analysis, and regulatory compliance. Our advanced laboratories are equipped with state-of-the-art instruments, enabling us to provide rigorous data and in-depth insights that support complex projects, inform decisions, and solve critical problems.

In addition to testing services, we offer expert witness testimony, litigation support, and technical consulting for legal cases, helping clients navigate complex scientific evidence and regulatory landscapes. Our expertise is trusted by clients across various sectors, including aerospace, environmental engineering, manufacturing, healthcare, and government agencies.

How to Apply:
To apply, please visit our website at RJ Lee Group Careers.

Equal Opportunity Employer:
RJ Lee Group, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Contact Information:
RJ Lee Group, Inc.
800 Presque Isle Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15239
P: 724.325.1776
www.rjleegroup.com
linkedin.com/company/rj-lee-group/

 
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