Positions

Mechanical Engineer

Application deadline: November 30, 2026

Who are we: 

Founded in 2021 by Forbes 30 Under 30 fellows Nathaniel Banks and Yidian Liu, PolyGone is a Princeton University spinout developing scalable, energy-efficient solutions to remove microplastics from water. Its patented filtration technology captures up to 98% of sub-millimeter microplastics across drinking water, wastewater, and industrial systems, enabling high-performance treatment with minimal operational impact.

Following the launch of the world’s first municipal microplastic removal pilot in 2024 which recovered over 580 million microplastics, PolyGone has secured more than $7 million in combined venture and non-dilutive funding to expand its treatment and analytical capabilities. The company is currently building industrial systems with leading global partners while deploying its first commercial municipal systems in 2026 across New Jersey and California.

What is the role?

We are seeking an entry-level (0-3 years of experience) Mechanical Engineer to enhance our filtration hardware and integration with various water channels. You are anticipated to start the role between December 15th and  January 5th.

Your Responsibilities:

  • Assist in procurement and coordinate the construction of filtration systems

  • Produce engineering drawings and technical schematics for fabrication

  • Optimize the mechanical design of filtration hardware, with attention to flow dynamics and capture efficiency

  • Design system integration strategies for a range of water channels (e.g., open-channel, pipe, and basin installations)

  • Conduct hardware performance testing under varying flow rates and contaminant loads to assess real-world efficacy

  • Communicate with fabricators and suppliers to align on procurement needs, tolerances, and design specifications

  • Design and build water circulation systems for filter testing

Hard Requirements: 

  • A bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering is required; a Master’s or Ph.D. degree is a plus

  • Prior work experience with design/engineering firms or research-track position; 1 recommendation letter required

  • Background or experience in fluid dynamics, with completed projects involving active water flow

  • Working proficiency in 3D modelling software, especially SolidWorks

  • Excellent communication skills, with English language speaking, writing, and presentation skills being a must

  • Strong hands-on experience in assembly and troubleshooting

  • Work on-site at our facility in Kearny, NJ (car ownership highly recommended)

Who are we looking for

  • We value “T-shaped” people. 

    • That is, people who are both generalists (highly skilled at a broad set of valuable things—the top of the T) and also experts (among the best in their field within a narrow discipline—the vertical leg of the T). This recipe is important for success at PolyGone. We often have to pass on people who are very strong generalists without expertise, or vice versa. An expert who is too narrow has difficulty collaborating. A generalist who doesn’t go deep enough in a single area ends up on the margins, not contributing as an individual.

  • Leadership Qualities

    • We encourage young professionals to be leaders in their early careers. We look for individuals who have the ambition, passion, and ability to guide the R&D of PolyGone. We want to work with someone who not only focuses on their own work but also can offer insights into general business development; is diligent (and sometimes obsessive) and can also train and oversee younger professionals to similar standards; persistent with their direction despite being doubted by others; curious about new realms and willing to take all initiatives to get there.

  • Personalities

    • Skills and experience are not the only qualities that we look for in PolyGone. We want to be able to develop a trusting working relationship. Here are some qualities that we highly value:

      • High-energy and optimistic

      • Funny (sometimes goofy)

      • Responsible

      • Diligent

      • Efficient

      • Proactive

      • Quick and clear in communications

      • Passionate about the mission

    • Here are some red flags that we try to avoid:

      • Unclear or slow in communication

      • Only care about their work and do not want to learn about other parts of the business

      • Expect work assignments from senior team members all the time

      • Not proactive in new research directions or is afraid of learning new skills independently

      • Inflexible, such as not willing to accommodate other’s availabilities or rejecting an idea too quickly before thinking about alternatives

      • Negative about the company’s development

      • Cannot multitask

Salary Range:

  • $70-75k / yr

What do we offer:

  • Competitive salary subject to experience and qualifications

  • Work authorization support

  • Fringe benefits include health insurance, vision & dental insurance, and 401(k)

  • Opportunities to learn about and become involved in marketing strategies, early-stage fundraising processes, and transforming design and technology into commercialized products

  • Access to the gym on the premises

  • Unlimited snacks, team meals, annual team excursions, and more!

Why Join PolyGone Now?

  • This is a rare chance to help define the DNA of a hardware-enabled climate startup tackling one of the planet’s most urgent environmental challenges. You will work closely with the founding team, influence core decisions, and help shape a company where impact and execution go hand in hand.

How to apply:

  • Email your CV with 1 letter of recommendation to info@polygonesystems.com

  • Email title: Job Application_Mechanical Engineer

  • Fill in the application form. An incomplete application will not be considered.

  • Deadline: November 30, 2026

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit, and business need.

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