Associate Researcher Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Associate Researcher 

We are looking for:

A hands-on Associate Researcher with experience in fiber-reinforced polymer composites for aerospace and defense applications. This role supports a mix of activities across resin/formulation development, composite processing, laminate fabrication, and thermal/mechanical characterization. The Associate Researcher will execute and own defined sub-tasks within larger R&D programs, generating high-quality data packages that enable technical decisions and support customer-facing projects.

We count on you for:

• Conduct composite product development research spanning polymer formulation, resin characterization, fiber impregnation/prepregging and/or infusion support, laminate fabrication/consolidation, and thermal/mechanical testing
• Execute composite processing and build activities (as applicable), such as material handling and layup support, vacuum bagging, debulking, cure cycle execution, post-processing coordination, and sample preparation
• Lead/own defined sub-tasks within larger projects: translate objectives into experimental plans, coordinate sample builds and test matrices, manage short-term milestones, and summarize results under supervision of a scientist
• Apply digital tools to streamline day-to-day research activities (e.g., DoE/statistical tools, templates, scripts, dashboards, and structured data capture). Use AI-enabled tools responsibly and protect confidential/company and customer information
• Support lab operations and project execution, including coordination with technicians/scientists, sample tracking, purchasing/logistics support as needed, and maintaining an organized workspace
• Organize and maintain R&I datasets and documentation, ensuring data integrity, traceability, and version control 

You will bring:

• Bachelor's degree (Master's preferred) in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field
• 1-3 plus years of hands-on experience in fiber-reinforced composites development, testing, and/or manufacturing (industry, co-op, or academic research)
• Demonstrated ability to work across both processing/build and testing/characterization tasks, with strong experimental discipline and documentation habits
• Experience with data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, JMP/Minitab, and/or Python) and the ability to communicate results clearly
• Strong communication (oral/written) skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams

Preferred (nice to have):

• Familiarity with aerospace-relevant mechanical testing and sample conditioning (e.g., tension/compression/ILSS/open-hole, hot/wet), and common ASTM practices
• Experience with composite processing equipment (hot press/autoclave/OOA ovens, cutting/ply kitting, infusion/prepreg handling) and/or basic failure analysis (microscopy)

You will get:

• Competitive salary and benefits package. The U.S. base salary range reasonably expected to be paid for this position is $71,760.00 to $89,700.00 per year. Since actual compensation packages are based on a variety of factors unique to each candidate we may ultimately pay more or less than the posted base salary range. Total compensation for this role also includes bonus and/or other incentives.

• 16, or more, weeks of maternity/paternity and co-parenting leave, according to local regulations
• Training platform for all employees
• Free well-being sessions (physical and psychological)

Other information:

Location: Anaheim, Ca (onsite)

Must be a US Citizen or Green Card holder

About us

• Syensqo is a science company developing groundbreaking solutions that enhance the way we live, work, travel and play. Inspired by the scientific councils which Ernest Solvay initiated in 1911, we bring great minds together to push the limits of science and innovation for the benefit of our customers, with a diverse, global team of more than 13,000 associates. Our solutions contribute to safer, cleaner, and more sustainable products found in homes, food and consumer goods, planes, cars, batteries, smart devices and health care applications. Our innovation power enables us to deliver on the ambition of a circular economy and explore breakthrough technologies that advance humanity.
• At Syensqo, we seek to promote unity and not uniformity. We value the diversity that individuals bring and we invite you to consider a future with us, regardless of background, age, gender, national origin, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, ability or identity. We encourage individuals who may require any assistance or accommodations to let us know to ensure a seamless application experience. We are here to support you throughout the application journey and want to ensure all candidates are treated equally. If you are unsure whether you meet all the criteria or qualifications listed in the job description, we still encourage you to apply.
• Syensqo is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristics.
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