Let’s get started
By clicking ‘Next’, I agree to the Terms of Service
and Privacy Policy
Jobs / Job page
Principal Engineer, Materials Science image - Rise Careers
Job details

Principal Engineer, Materials Science

This is where you save and sustain lives

At Baxter, we are deeply connected by our mission. No matter your role at Baxter, your work makes a positive impact on people around the world. You’ll feel a sense of purpose throughout the organization, as we know our work improves outcomes for millions of patients. 

Baxter’s products and therapies are found in almost every hospital worldwide, in clinics and in the home. For over 85 years, we have pioneered significant medical innovations that transform healthcare.

Together, we create a place where we are happy, successful and inspire each other. This is where you can do your best work. 

Join us at the intersection of saving and sustaining lives— where your purpose accelerates our mission. 

Your Role at Baxter

This is where your work saves lives

As the Research Scientist I role, reporting into the Sr. Director, Material Science, you will specialize in imaging and failure analysis of medical devices mainly made from polymeric materials.

What you'll be doing:

  • Responsible for the operation of CT scanner, SEm, AFM ,and other  imagining equipment 

  • Failure analysis and troubleshooting on medical devices / products that are mainly made of polymers 

  • Be SmE (subject matter expert) in failure analysis (destructive and non destructive)

What you'll bring:

  • BS in Mechanical, Chemical or Polymer E with 5+ years or experience or, MS degree with 3+ years

  • Knowledge in polymer science and engineering

  • Must have hands on experience in using and maintaining of SEM, CT scanning, optical and other cut edge imaging testing equipment, and also interpretation of obtained images

  • Ability to independently conduct failure analysis, making conclusions and recommend solutions to complex problems

  • Understanding of the morphological structure and the physical chemical  behavior of polymer materials used in medical devices including containers and sets.

Join our team and make a difference in the lives of patients around the world!

Baxter is committed to supporting the needs for flexibility in the workplace. We do so through our flexible workplace policy which includes a required minimum number of days a week onsite. This policy provides the benefits of connecting and collaborating in-person in support of our Mission. The flexible workplace policy is subject to local laws and legal requirements. At its discretion, Baxter may decide to adjust, suspend, or discontinue as business needs change.

We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. At Baxter, we are committed to equitable pay for all employees, and we strive to be more transparent with our pay practices. The estimated base salary for this position is $104,000 to $143,000, annually. The estimated range is meant to reflect an anticipated salary range for the position. We may pay more or less than of the anticipated range based upon market data and other factors, all of which are subject to change. Individual pay is based on upon location, skills and expertise, experience, and other relevant factors. For questions about this, our pay philosophy, and available benefits, please speak to the recruiter if you decide to apply and are selected for an interview.

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.

#LI-MS1

US Benefits at Baxter (except for Puerto Rico)

This is where your well-being matters. Baxter offers comprehensive compensation and benefits packages for eligible roles. Our health and well-being benefits include medical and dental coverage that start on day one, as well as insurance coverage for basic life, accident, short-term and long-term disability, and business travel accident insurance. Financial and retirement benefits include the Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP), with the ability to purchase company stock at a discount, and the 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan (RSP), with options for employee contributions and company matching. We also offer Flexible Spending Accounts, educational assistance programs, and time-off benefits such as paid holidays, paid time off ranging from 20 to 35 days based on length of service, family and medical leaves of absence, and paid parental leave. Additional benefits include commuting benefits, the Employee Discount Program, the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and childcare benefits. Join us and enjoy the competitive compensation and benefits we offer to our employees. For additional information regarding Baxter US Benefits, please speak with your recruiter or visit our Benefits site: Benefits | Baxter

Equal Employment Opportunity

Baxter is an equal opportunity employer. Baxter evaluates qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, protected veteran status, disability/handicap status or any other legally protected characteristic.

Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal

Reasonable Accommodations

Baxter is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities globally. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or interview process, please click on the link here and let us know the nature of your request along with your contact information.

Recruitment Fraud Notice

Baxter has discovered incidents of employment scams, where fraudulent parties pose as Baxter employees, recruiters, or other agents, and engage with online job seekers in an attempt to steal personal and/or financial information. To learn how you can protect yourself, review our Recruitment Fraud Notice.

Baxter Glassdoor Company Review
3.6 Glassdoor star iconGlassdoor star iconGlassdoor star icon Glassdoor star icon Glassdoor star icon
Baxter DE&I Review
No rating Glassdoor star iconGlassdoor star iconGlassdoor star iconGlassdoor star iconGlassdoor star icon
CEO of Baxter
Baxter CEO photo
José (Joe) Almeida
Approve of CEO

Average salary estimate

$123500 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$104000K
$143000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Principal Engineer, Materials Science, Baxter

At Baxter, we thrive on our mission of saving and sustaining lives, and we're excited to invite you to be part of this impactful journey as a Principal Engineer, Materials Science. Located in Round Lake, Illinois, this position places you at the forefront of medical innovation. In this role, you'll focus on the imaging and failure analysis of medical devices, particularly those made from polymeric materials. Your expertise in operating state-of-the-art imaging equipment like CT scanners and SEMs will be invaluable as you perform failure analyses, troubleshoot medical devices, and offer recommendations based on your findings. Working closely with a dedicated team, you will be recognized as a subject matter expert, ensuring that our products meet the highest standards of safety and efficacy. To thrive in this position, you'll need a solid foundation in polymer science and engineering, along with hands-on experience with imaging technologies. If you're passionate about advancing healthcare through innovation and want to contribute to products that positively affect patient outcomes, this is the place for you. At Baxter, we foster an environment that encourages collaboration and support, enabling our employees to do their best work. If you're ready to make a difference and accelerate your career within a purpose-driven organization, we invite you to join us in our mission to improve lives around the globe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Principal Engineer, Materials Science Role at Baxter
What are the main responsibilities of a Principal Engineer, Materials Science at Baxter?

As a Principal Engineer, Materials Science at Baxter, you will be primarily responsible for performing imaging and failure analysis of medical devices, especially those constructed from polymeric materials. You will operate advanced imaging equipment, including CT scanners and SEM, conduct thorough failure analyses, and serve as a subject matter expert in this domain. Your insights will guide troubleshooting efforts and enhance the safety and efficiency of our medical products.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What qualifications are required for the Principal Engineer, Materials Science position at Baxter?

To qualify for the Principal Engineer, Materials Science role at Baxter, candidates must possess a BS in Mechanical, Chemical, or Polymer Engineering with at least 5 years of experience, or an MS degree with 3 years of relevant experience. A strong understanding of polymer science and engineering, as well as hands-on proficiency in utilizing and maintaining imaging and testing equipment, is essential to succeed in this position.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How does Baxter support flexible work arrangements for the Principal Engineer, Materials Science role?

Baxter values a flexible workplace and offers a policy that requires a minimum number of onsite days. This balance enables employees in roles like Principal Engineer, Materials Science to benefit from in-person collaboration while also enjoying the flexibility that suits their individual needs. This approach underscores our commitment to employee happiness and productivity.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What benefits are offered to Principal Engineers, Materials Science at Baxter?

Baxter provides a comprehensive benefits package for Principal Engineers, Materials Science, including medical and dental coverage starting on day one, life and disability insurance, and a robust 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with company matching. Additional perks include flexible spending accounts, educational assistance, paid time off, parental leave, and a variety of wellness programs that emphasize work-life balance.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What kind of work culture can a Principal Engineer, Materials Science expect at Baxter?

At Baxter, the work culture is grounded in teamwork, innovation, and a shared mission of improving patient outcomes. As a Principal Engineer, Materials Science, you will work in an environment that encourages open communication, collaboration, and professional growth. Employees at Baxter share a passion for making a positive impact, leading to a fulfilling and engaging work experience.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Common Interview Questions for Principal Engineer, Materials Science
Can you describe your experience with failure analysis in polymeric medical devices?

When answering this question, highlight specific experiences where you conducted failure analyses on polymeric materials in medical devices. Discuss the methodologies you used, such as both destructive and non-destructive testing, and any significant findings that improved device performance, showcasing your expertise in this area.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What imaging techniques are you most familiar with, and how have you applied them in previous roles?

To respond effectively, mention the imaging techniques you have experience with, such as CT scanning and SEM. Provide examples of how you applied these techniques in your past roles to assess material quality or investigate failures, emphasizing their relevance to the Principal Engineer, Materials Science position at Baxter.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you approach troubleshooting complex problems in medical devices?

Discuss your systematic approach to troubleshooting, mentioning key steps like identification, analysis, testing, and solution implementation. Provide an example of a complex problem you solved in a past role, highlighting the impact of your solution on device safety and efficacy.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What are the key considerations when selecting imaging equipment for failure analysis?

Your answer should reflect an understanding of accuracy, speed, and resolution in imaging equipment. Discuss how these factors contribute to effective failure analysis and decision-making, and consider mentioning any specific imaging technologies you have utilized successfully.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you stay current with advancements in polymer science and materials engineering?

Explain your strategy for continuous learning, such as attending conferences, enrolling in relevant courses, subscribing to scientific journals, or participating in professional networks. Show enthusiasm for staying updated on industry trends that could influence your role as a Principal Engineer, Materials Science.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Describe a project where you acted as a subject matter expert in materials science.

Share a detailed example of a project where you played a leading role as a subject matter expert. Explain how you contributed to the team's understanding of materials science and the impact your input had on project outcomes, reinforcing your expertise in the field.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What challenges have you encountered when working with polymeric materials, and how did you overcome them?

Think of a specific challenge regarding polymeric materials, such as degradation or compatibility issues. Describe your thought process in identifying the challenge and the solution you implemented, showcasing your critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How would you explain complex materials science concepts to a non-technical audience?

Focus on your communication strategies, such as using analogies, simplifying terminology, and focusing on the implications of materials science to the audience. Offer an example of a time you successfully communicated a complex concept to ensure clarity and understanding.

Join Rise to see the full answer
In what ways can polymers contribute to improving medical device performance?

Discuss how different polymer properties (like flexibility, biocompatibility, and durability) can enhance medical device performance. Provide specific examples of devices where polymers have made a significant difference in functionality or patient outcomes.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you handle working under pressure with tight deadlines for project deliverables?

Share effective time management strategies you use, emphasizing prioritization, organization, and communication with team members to meet deadlines. Provide a scenario where you successfully managed pressure, showcasing resilience and commitment to quality.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Similar Jobs
Photo of the Rise User
Baxter Hybrid Deerfield, Illinois
Posted 4 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Posted 3 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Posted yesterday
Posted 13 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Thorlabs Hybrid No location specified
Posted 11 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Second Order Effects Hybrid El Segundo, California
Posted 6 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Messer Hybrid 15115 Park Row Blvd ste 160, Houston, TX 77084, USA
Posted 11 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Weekday Remote No location specified
Posted 11 days ago

At Baxter, we are united by our mission to save and sustain lives. We are an inclusive community of diverse individuals who are driven to go beyond what is to what is possible in healthcare. We are proud to work at the critical intersection ...

70 jobs
MATCH
Calculating your matching score...
FUNDING
DEPARTMENTS
SENIORITY LEVEL REQUIREMENT
TEAM SIZE
EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, hybrid
DATE POSTED
March 27, 2025

Subscribe to Rise newsletter

Risa star 🔮 Hi, I'm Risa! Your AI
Career Copilot
Want to see a list of jobs tailored to
you, just ask me below!
LATEST ACTIVITY
C
Someone from OH, Port Clinton just viewed Data Entry Clerk at Comforce Resource
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Mason just viewed HR/Recruiting Assistant at Illumination
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Strongsville just viewed Used Car Buyer - Concord Toyota at Sonic Automotive
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Mid-level Creative (f/m/d) at Landor
Photo of the Rise User
70 people applied to Electrical Apprentice at Aerotek
P
Someone from OH, Kent just viewed Graphic Designer at ProjectGrowth
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Waverly just viewed Client Services Manager at Pepperstone
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Plain City just viewed Aesthetic Telehealth Nurse Practitioner (remote) at Moxie
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed EdTech Product/Program Manager at Planner5D
S
Someone from OH, Lorain just viewed Test Engineer- Ninja at SharkNinja
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Youngstown just viewed Channel Development Representative at Arrow Electronics
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Buyer at Novolex
k
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed Patient Experience Coordinator at knownwell
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed Store Manager - New Store Opening at Curaleaf
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Akron just viewed Finance Intern - Summer 2025 at Spectrum
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Norwalk just viewed Hybrid Account Manager-Commercial Lines at AssuredPartners
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Loveland just viewed Animator at Apex Systems Bellevue, WA at Apex Systems
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Canton just viewed Lead Jr. Toddler Teacher at All Around Children
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Mentor just viewed Site Merchandising Manager at Lovepop
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Batavia just viewed Restaurant Busser at Outback Steakhouse