Research Engineer - Rheologist

Avery Dennison Corporation (NYSE: AVY) is a global materials science and digital identification solutions company. We are Making Possible™ products and solutions that help advance the industries we serve, providing branding and information solutions that optimize labor and supply chain efficiency, reduce waste, advance sustainability, circularity and transparency, and better connect brands and consumers. We design and develop labeling and functional materials, radio-frequency identification (RFID) inlays and tags, software applications that connect the physical and digital, and offerings that enhance branded packaging and carry or display information that improves the customer experience. Serving industries worldwide — including home and personal care, apparel, general retail, e-commerce, logistics, food and grocery, pharmaceuticals and automotive — we employ approximately 35,000 employees in more than 50 countries. Our reported sales in 2024 were $8.8 billion. Learn more at www.averydennison.com.

Avery Dennison is seeking an energetic and skilled Research Engineer (Rheologist) to join our Materials Science and Characterization (MSC) Advanced Analytical Group in Mentor, Ohio. This team supports a wide spectrum of R&D efforts—from long-term innovation initiatives to fast-paced manufacturing and quality-related problem solving—across Avery Dennison’s global operations. 

The ideal candidate will bring expertise in experimental rheology of polymers and soft matter leveraging viscoelasticity, polymer processing, adhesion science, and materials characterization to address challenges associated with pressure-sensitive laminates of soft polymers and films. 

Key Responsibilities 

● Work under the supervision of the Senior Scientist leading the Rheology/Thermal Lab to deliver timely and high-impact technical results. 

● Be a hands-on experimenter, conducting studies to evaluate the rheological and thermal behavior of adhesives (emulsion, hot melt, rubber-based, suspension, solvent-based) and polymeric films. 

● Participate in and contribute to R&D projects aligned with organizational goals. 

● Develop and implement novel test methods—including custom setups—to support product development, process optimization, and structure–property investigations. 

● Maintain all Rheology Lab instruments, including but not limited to rheometers, DSC, TGA, DMA, and TMA, through periodic calibration and validation. Proactively develop, 

Classification: Avery Dennison - Confidential

update, and maintain test methods. 

● Promote the use of advanced characterization tools and continuously expand scientific understanding in key focus areas. 

● Analyze data and apply rheological models to extract insights. 

● Communicate technical findings effectively through reports, presentations, and stakeholder interactions. 

● Foster a safe working environment by participating in safety programs and conducting lab and pilot plant safety audits.. 

Minimum Requirements 

● Master’s degree in Polymer Science and Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, or a related field with a focus on soft materials (e.g., adhesives), plus at least 2 years of experience in rheology and thermal analysis. 

○ A Bachelor’s degree (B.Eng) with extensive experience in polymer rheology and processing will also be considered. 

● Proven record of technical contributions, demonstrated through publications and/or conference presentations. 

● Hands-on expertise with the following instrumentation: 

○ Rotational, capillary, and extensional rheometers 

○ Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) 

○ Thermal analysis tools: DSC, TGA, TMA 

● Strong knowledge of rheological behavior of fluids, molten polymers, and soft materials. 

● Practical understanding of polymer formulation, processing, and high-speed web coating processes is highly desirable. 

● Familiarity with ELN/LIMS systems and data management is an advantage. Classification: Avery Dennison - Confidential

● Ability to bridge theoretical knowledge with experimental and manufacturing realities. ● Strong technical communication and documentation skills. 

● Highly organized, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks simultaneously. ● Collaborative, proactive, and detail-oriented mindset with strong problem-solving skills. ● Ability to work independently and within cross-functional teams. 

● Willingness to travel occasionally (less than 10%). 

The salary range for this position is $68,025 - $90,700/ year.

The hiring base salary range above represents what Avery Dennison reasonably expects to pay for this position as of the date of this posting. Actual salaries will vary within the range, and in some circumstances may be above or below the range, based on various factors including but not limited to a candidate’s relevant skills, experience, education and training, and location, as well as the job scope and complexity, responsibilities, and regular and/or necessary travel required for the position, which may change depending on the candidate pool. Avery Dennison reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law. 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or other protected status. EEOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

If you require accommodations to view or apply for a job, alternative methods are available to submit an application. Please contact (440) 534-6000 or [email protected] to discuss reasonable accommodations.