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Advanced Polymer Technology Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Polymer Chemist/Plating Expert

Santa Clara, CA · On-site +1

$161K - $221K/yr

Design, formulate, and characterize polymer-based materials, coatings, and surface treatments for advanced technology applications. Lead process development, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis ...

Showing results 21-40

Advanced Polymer Technology information

See California salary details

$49.8K

$88.2K

$153K

How much do advanced polymer technology jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for advanced polymer technology in California is $88,160.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,100.00 and $113,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is advanced polymer technology?

Advanced Polymer Technology refers to the development, manufacturing, and application of high-performance polymer materials designed to meet specific engineering needs. These technologies involve creating polymers with enhanced physical, chemical, or mechanical properties for use in industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, and healthcare. Professionals in this field work on innovations like biodegradable plastics, high-strength composites, and smart materials that respond to environmental stimuli. Advanced Polymer Technology combines principles from chemistry, materials science, and engineering to solve complex problems and improve product performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in advanced polymer technology?

To thrive in Advanced Polymer Technology, you need a strong background in polymer chemistry, materials science, and engineering, typically supported by a relevant degree such as chemical engineering or materials science. Familiarity with polymer processing techniques, analytical instrumentation (like FTIR, DSC, and GPC), and relevant industry certifications are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, innovation, and teamwork skills help professionals excel in research, development, and cross-functional collaboration. These competencies are vital for driving material advancements, ensuring product quality, and meeting the evolving demands of high-performance applications.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in advanced polymer technology, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Advanced Polymer Technology often encounter challenges such as staying updated with rapidly evolving materials and processing techniques, ensuring product quality, and meeting strict regulatory standards. Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams—such as R&D, manufacturing, and quality assurance—is essential to address these issues efficiently. Regular training, attending industry conferences, and leveraging professional networks can help professionals remain current with innovations and best practices. Additionally, strong problem-solving skills and adaptability are crucial for overcoming technical hurdles in this dynamic field.

What is the difference between Advanced Polymer Technology vs Polymer Scientist?

AspectAdvanced Polymer TechnologyPolymer Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Materials Science, or Chemical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Materials Science, or Chemical Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departmentsResearch labs, academic institutions, industrial R&D
Industry UsageProduct development, manufacturing, quality controlResearch, development, analysis of polymers
Common Search/ComparisonAdvanced Polymer Technology vs Polymer Scientist

Advanced Polymer Technology professionals focus on applying polymer science to develop new materials and improve manufacturing processes, often working in industrial settings. Polymer Scientists primarily conduct research and analysis to understand polymer properties and behaviors. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Advanced Polymer Technology emphasizes practical application and product development, whereas Polymer Scientists focus on fundamental research and analysis.

What job categories do people searching Advanced Polymer Technology jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Advanced Polymer Technology jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Advanced Polymer Technology jobs?

Cities in California with the most Advanced Polymer Technology job openings:

Infographic showing various Advanced Polymer Technology job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,160 per year, or $42.4 per hour.

Polymer Chemist/Plating Expert

Applied Materials

Santa Clara, CA • On-site, Remote

$161K - $221K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Applied Materials rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

Who We Are Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips - the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that literally connect our world - like AI and IoT.

If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world. What We Offer Salary: $161,000.00 - $221,000.00 Location: Santa Clara,CA You'll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible-while learning every day in a supportive leading global company

Visit our Careers website to learn more. At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We're committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go.

Learn more about our benefits. Key Responsibilities Develop and optimize electroplating processes and electrochemical systems to improve coating quality, performance, and manufacturing efficiency. Design, formulate, and characterize polymer-based materials, coatings, and surface treatments for advanced technology applications.

Lead process development, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis while collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive innovation and reliability Design, collect data, analyze and compile reports on chemistry related to semiconductor integration with a special focus on development of chemistries. Successfully identify new classes of chemical processes on test vehicle equipment and lead the design of test vehicle equipment. Develop internal chemistry capabilities and mentor junior chemists.

Develop a deep understanding of structure-function relationships for the product chemical application. Supports customer in understanding details of chemical process. Successfully transfer chemical processes to product groups.

Functional Knowledge Demonstrates depth and/or breadth of expertise in own specialized discipline or field Business Expertise Interprets internal/external business challenges and recommends best practices to improve products, processes or services Leadership May lead functional teams or projects with moderate resource requirements, risk, and/or complexity Problem Solving Leads others to solve complex problems; uses sophisticated analytical thought to exercise judgment and identify innovative solutions Impact Impacts the achievement of customer, operational, project or service objectives; work is guided by functional policies Interpersonal Skills Communicates difficult concepts and negotiates with others to adopt a different point of view Additional Information Time Type: Full time Employee Type: Assignee / Regular Travel: Yes, 10% of the Time Relocation Eligible: Yes The salary offered to a selected candidate will be based on multiple factors including location, hire grade, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and with consideration of internal equity of our current team members. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable. For all sales roles, the posted salary range is the Target Total Cash (TTC) range for the role, which is the sum of base salary and target bonus amount at 100% goal achievement.

Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. In addition, Applied endeavors to make our careers site accessible to all users.

If you would like to contact us regarding accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact us via e-mail at Accommodations_Program@amat.com, or by calling our HR Direct Help Line at 877-612-7547, option 1, and following the prompts to speak to an HR Advisor. This contact is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.


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About Applied Materials

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Applied Materials is the global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We're the brain (and the brawn) behind every new technology development--whether it's building semiconductor chips for smartphones and computers, or the underpinnings for robotics, AI and even smart TV display screens. With 27,000 employees in 19 countries, we offer an exciting place to grow and learn alongside some of the best people you'll ever meet. We take deep pride in our Culture of Inclusion, and we celebrate the diverse backgrounds, perspectives and experiences that help us build stronger, more resilient teams. Join us as we innovate to Make Possible a Better Future!

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1967