Process Development Engineer Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Process Development Engineers are strong H-1B visa and O-1 candidates. The role qualifies as a specialty occupation requiring a degree in chemical, mechanical, or materials engineering, and employers in pharma, semiconductor, and biotech routinely sponsor visas for this title. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Get Access To All JobsJob Requisition ID: 56392
Founded in 1920, Eastman is a global specialty materials company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day. With the purpose of enhancing the quality of life in a material way, Eastman works with customers to deliver innovative products and solutions while maintaining a commitment to safety and sustainability. The company’s innovation-driven growth model takes advantage of world-class technology platforms, deep customer engagement, and differentiated application development to grow its leading positions in attractive end markets such as transportation, building and construction, and consumables. As a globally inclusive company, Eastman employs approximately 13,000 people around the world and serves customers in more than 100 countries. The company had 2025 revenue of approximately $8.8 billion and is headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, USA.
Description
This position is for an experienced scientist to support product development and formulation of Eastman’s Biodegradables products. This position will report through the Biodegradables Technology Division.
Location
- Kingsport, TN: Travel up to 90%
- Indianapolis, IN Metro: Travel up to 50%
- Other Remote Locations: Travel up to 90%
Responsibilities
1.) Scale up existing products in the Biodegradables Technology product portfolio at internal and external facilities. This includes acting in a hands-on, active participatory and leadership capacity.
2.) Hands-on development of SOPs, documentation, and best practices for compounded product production; sharing with and translating procedures to internal and external parties as required.
3.) Partner with internal Eastman stakeholders to harmonize product data with existing data management systems.
4.) Recommend further opportunities for process improvement and cost savings.
5.) Coordinate and, when needed, execute analytical testing for process improvement projects at both internal and external testing laboratories.
6.) Work collaboratively with Operators, Scientists, Technicians, and Engineering partners to collaboratively scale-up polymer formulations as part of the commercialization process.
7.) Provide timely communications to management and project stakeholders by communicating project needs, value, priorities, and decisions to ensure project success.
8.) Serve as Eastman’s technical field liaison during scale up and commercialization—rapidly build trust with customers and contract manufacturers through clear, professional communication; provide constructive, collaborative coaching and direction to customer and operator teams while managing expectations and capturing feedback for continual improvement.
Qualifications
Required Degree, Experience, and Qualifications:
- BS in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Related Field with 10+ years’ experience in compounding and formulating polymers.
- Deep understanding of polymer structure/property relationships and approaches to polymer formulations to achieve end-use requirements.
- Ability to translate end-use requirements to compounded product concepts.
- Commitment to high level of safety and environmental awareness.
- Rapidly build trust with operators, contract manufacturers, and senior customer leaders.
- Coach front-line teams and translate technical needs into clear, actionable steps.
- Represent Eastman with a customer-first mindset while protecting company interests.
- Must exhibit Eastman competencies.
- Must be a self-starter with a focus on results.
- Ability to lead and drive challenging projects forward to a decision despite uncertainties.
- Strong problem-solving skills.
- Excellent written, listening, and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Degree, Experience, and Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Related Field with 5+ years’ of experience in compounding and formulating polymers.
- Experience in scaling small-scale processes to plant-scale equipment related to compounding, extrusion, and/or blending of plastic products.
- Experience with cellulose esters.
- Track record of engaging with cross-functional partners to define and evaluate ways to achieve business results.
- Comfortable challenging peers and supervision to develop creative solutions.
- Proven ability to engage well with technicians/operators, peers, and management.
- Proven experience in leading multifunctional project teams.
The base salary range for this position is $112-154k.
At Eastman, we are committed to transparency and integrity in our compensation practices. Eastman includes salary ranges in some job postings to provide clear compensation information and to be compliant with state laws that require disclosure. Not all postings display ranges due to factors like location, market conditions, or position specifics. Compensation is based on qualifications and experience. Candidates are encouraged to discuss their salary questions during the interview process.
Benefits
Your total rewards go far beyond a competitive salary. When you join Eastman, you gain access to an exceptional suite of programs designed to protect your health, grow your wealth, and fuel your career.
Compensation & Incentives
- Base pay plus performance-based incentive opportunities that let you share in our success.
Health & Wellness
- Comprehensive medical, prescription-drug, and dental coverage—paired with a Health Savings Account option to help you save tax-free dollars for care today or in the future.
- A robust menu of voluntary benefits—including vision, optional life, critical-illness protection, and more—so you can tailor coverage to fit your life.
- Holistic wellness support: financial-planning tools, family-building assistance (adoption, pregnancy, and fertility resources), parental leave, and confidential Employee Assistance Program counseling.
Retirement & Financial Strategies
- 401(k) with a company match—plus an additional annual retirement contribution from Eastman to accelerate your long-term savings.
Time Away
- Eleven paid holidays, one personal day, paid time off, and paid vacation to recharge, celebrate, or handle life’s moments.
Growth & Development
- Access to mentorship, learning resources, and leadership programs that empower you to thrive in your current role and chart the next steps in your career.
At Eastman, we invest in the whole you—so you can bring your best self to work every day and build a future you’re proud of.
Eastman Chemical Company is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, pregnancy, veteran status or any other protected classes as designated by law.
Eastman is committed to creating a powerfully engaged workplace, where everyone can contribute to their fullest potential each day.
Nearest Major Market: Asheville
Nearest Secondary Market: Knoxville
Job Segment: Chemical Research, Chemical Engineer, Process Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Construction, Engineering
Job Requisition ID: 56392
Founded in 1920, Eastman is a global specialty materials company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day. With the purpose of enhancing the quality of life in a material way, Eastman works with customers to deliver innovative products and solutions while maintaining a commitment to safety and sustainability. The company’s innovation-driven growth model takes advantage of world-class technology platforms, deep customer engagement, and differentiated application development to grow its leading positions in attractive end markets such as transportation, building and construction, and consumables. As a globally inclusive company, Eastman employs approximately 13,000 people around the world and serves customers in more than 100 countries. The company had 2025 revenue of approximately $8.8 billion and is headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, USA.
Description
This position is for an experienced scientist to support product development and formulation of Eastman’s Biodegradables products. This position will report through the Biodegradables Technology Division.
Location
- Kingsport, TN: Travel up to 90%
- Indianapolis, IN Metro: Travel up to 50%
- Other Remote Locations: Travel up to 90%
Responsibilities
1.) Scale up existing products in the Biodegradables Technology product portfolio at internal and external facilities. This includes acting in a hands-on, active participatory and leadership capacity.
2.) Hands-on development of SOPs, documentation, and best practices for compounded product production; sharing with and translating procedures to internal and external parties as required.
3.) Partner with internal Eastman stakeholders to harmonize product data with existing data management systems.
4.) Recommend further opportunities for process improvement and cost savings.
5.) Coordinate and, when needed, execute analytical testing for process improvement projects at both internal and external testing laboratories.
6.) Work collaboratively with Operators, Scientists, Technicians, and Engineering partners to collaboratively scale-up polymer formulations as part of the commercialization process.
7.) Provide timely communications to management and project stakeholders by communicating project needs, value, priorities, and decisions to ensure project success.
8.) Serve as Eastman’s technical field liaison during scale up and commercialization—rapidly build trust with customers and contract manufacturers through clear, professional communication; provide constructive, collaborative coaching and direction to customer and operator teams while managing expectations and capturing feedback for continual improvement.
Qualifications
Required Degree, Experience, and Qualifications:
- BS in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Related Field with 10+ years’ experience in compounding and formulating polymers.
- Deep understanding of polymer structure/property relationships and approaches to polymer formulations to achieve end-use requirements.
- Ability to translate end-use requirements to compounded product concepts.
- Commitment to high level of safety and environmental awareness.
- Rapidly build trust with operators, contract manufacturers, and senior customer leaders.
- Coach front-line teams and translate technical needs into clear, actionable steps.
- Represent Eastman with a customer-first mindset while protecting company interests.
- Must exhibit Eastman competencies.
- Must be a self-starter with a focus on results.
- Ability to lead and drive challenging projects forward to a decision despite uncertainties.
- Strong problem-solving skills.
- Excellent written, listening, and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Degree, Experience, and Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Related Field with 5+ years’ of experience in compounding and formulating polymers.
- Experience in scaling small-scale processes to plant-scale equipment related to compounding, extrusion, and/or blending of plastic products.
- Experience with cellulose esters.
- Track record of engaging with cross-functional partners to define and evaluate ways to achieve business results.
- Comfortable challenging peers and supervision to develop creative solutions.
- Proven ability to engage well with technicians/operators, peers, and management.
- Proven experience in leading multifunctional project teams.
The base salary range for this position is $112-154k.
At Eastman, we are committed to transparency and integrity in our compensation practices. Eastman includes salary ranges in some job postings to provide clear compensation information and to be compliant with state laws that require disclosure. Not all postings display ranges due to factors like location, market conditions, or position specifics. Compensation is based on qualifications and experience. Candidates are encouraged to discuss their salary questions during the interview process.
Benefits
Your total rewards go far beyond a competitive salary. When you join Eastman, you gain access to an exceptional suite of programs designed to protect your health, grow your wealth, and fuel your career.
Compensation & Incentives
- Base pay plus performance-based incentive opportunities that let you share in our success.
Health & Wellness
- Comprehensive medical, prescription-drug, and dental coverage—paired with a Health Savings Account option to help you save tax-free dollars for care today or in the future.
- A robust menu of voluntary benefits—including vision, optional life, critical-illness protection, and more—so you can tailor coverage to fit your life.
- Holistic wellness support: financial-planning tools, family-building assistance (adoption, pregnancy, and fertility resources), parental leave, and confidential Employee Assistance Program counseling.
Retirement & Financial Strategies
- 401(k) with a company match—plus an additional annual retirement contribution from Eastman to accelerate your long-term savings.
Time Away
- Eleven paid holidays, one personal day, paid time off, and paid vacation to recharge, celebrate, or handle life’s moments.
Growth & Development
- Access to mentorship, learning resources, and leadership programs that empower you to thrive in your current role and chart the next steps in your career.
At Eastman, we invest in the whole you—so you can bring your best self to work every day and build a future you’re proud of.
Eastman Chemical Company is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, pregnancy, veteran status or any other protected classes as designated by law.
Eastman is committed to creating a powerfully engaged workplace, where everyone can contribute to their fullest potential each day.
Nearest Major Market: Asheville
Nearest Secondary Market: Knoxville
Job Segment: Chemical Research, Chemical Engineer, Process Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Construction, Engineering
See all 145+ Process Development Engineer jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Process Development Engineer roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as a Process Development Engineer
Target industries with established sponsorship pipelines
Pharmaceutical, semiconductor, and biotech manufacturers sponsor Process Development Engineers at high rates. These industries have internal immigration teams familiar with H-1B filings, which speeds up the process and reduces the risk of petition errors.
Align your degree field to the role description
H-1B approval for this title depends on proving specialty occupation. A degree in chemical, mechanical, materials, or biomedical engineering maps cleanly to the role. Degrees in unrelated fields require stronger documentation to establish the connection.
Prioritize larger employers for first sponsorship
Large manufacturers and contract development organizations have sponsored this role repeatedly, giving them established LCA and I-129 workflows. First-time sponsors face longer timelines and higher petition risk, which matters if you're on OPT deadlines.
Highlight process validation and scale-up experience
Employers filing H-1B petitions for this role need to demonstrate the job requires a specific degree. Framing your work around process validation, tech transfer, and scale-up reinforces the specialty occupation argument in your petition documentation.
Ask about cap-exempt employers early
Hospitals, universities, and nonprofit research institutions attached to higher education are cap-exempt, meaning no lottery. Some biotech and pharma R&D roles sit within cap-exempt entities. Identifying these early removes lottery risk from your sponsorship path entirely.
Process Development Engineer jobs are hiring across the US. Find yours.
Find Process Development Engineer JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Does Process Development Engineer qualify as a specialty occupation for H-1B purposes?
Yes. The role consistently qualifies as a specialty occupation because it requires theoretical and practical application of chemical, mechanical, or materials engineering principles at the bachelor's level or higher. USCIS has approved H-1B petitions for this title across pharmaceutical, semiconductor, and biotech employers. The strongest petitions tie specific job duties to degree requirements rather than relying on the job title alone.
Which visa types do employers typically sponsor for this role?
H-1B is the most common path, used by the majority of Process Development Engineers entering the U.S. workforce. O-1A is an option for candidates with publications, patents, or industry awards. L-1B applies if you're transferring from a foreign affiliate of a U.S. company with specialized knowledge of proprietary processes. TN classification is available for Canadian and Mexican nationals with engineering degrees.
What degree does an employer need to demonstrate for H-1B approval?
USCIS requires the employer to show that a specific bachelor's degree in a directly related field is the normal minimum for the position. For Process Development Engineer, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, materials science, and biomedical engineering all satisfy this. A general engineering degree may require additional supporting documentation. Degrees in business, biology, or unrelated sciences will face closer scrutiny and may require a detailed nexus argument.
How do I find Process Development Engineer roles that sponsor visas?
Migrate Mate lists Process Development Engineer positions specifically filtered for visa sponsorship, so you're not sorting through postings that don't apply to international candidates. Past H-1B filings are publicly available through DOL disclosure data, which lets you verify whether a specific employer has sponsored this role before. Combining both sources gives you the most accurate picture of where real sponsorship opportunities exist.
Can I get sponsored for this role without a U.S. degree?
Yes. USCIS accepts foreign degrees that are equivalent to a U.S. bachelor's degree in a relevant field. A three-year engineering degree from some countries may require a credential evaluation to establish equivalency. Work experience can supplement academic credentials under the three-for-one rule, where three years of specialized experience substitutes for one year of formal education, but a full degree equivalent still needs to be demonstrated.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Process Development Engineer jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.
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