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In Polymer Chemistry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

James Hardie

Sr Research Engineer - Polymer Materials

Fontana, CA

$120K - $135K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This role requires deep fundamentals in polymer science and polymer engineering, with emphasis on PVC chemistry, physics, processing, and structure-property-process relationships, bridging laboratory ...

James Hardie

Sr Research Engineer - Polymer Materials

Wilmington, OH · On-site

$120K - $135K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This role requires deep fundamentals in polymer science and polymer engineering, with emphasis on PVC chemistry, physics, processing, and structure-property-process relationships, bridging laboratory ...

James Hardie

Sr Research Engineer - Polymer Materials

Wilmington, OH · On-site

$120K - $135K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This role requires deep fundamentals in polymer science and polymer engineering, with emphasis on PVC chemistry, physics, processing, and structure-property-process relationships, bridging laboratory ...

STENA

Principle Engineer - Polymer Materials

Baltimore, MD

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

D. in Chemistry with a specialization in polymer materials, ceramic-polymer nanocomposites, thermosets, and advanced materials systems. * More than 8 years of experience in polymer synthesis ...

Washington University of St. Louis

D. in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline must be completed by the time of employment. Candidates should demonstrate a successful track record ...

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How much do in polymer chemistry jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for in polymer chemistry in the United States is $74,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,000.00 and $87,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between In Polymer Chemistry vs Polymer Scientist?

AspectIn Polymer ChemistryPolymer Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Materials Science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, manufacturing plantsResearch labs, industrial settings, product development teams
Industry UsageResearch and development, academia, manufacturingProduct innovation, quality control, material analysis

In Polymer Chemistry focuses on understanding the chemical properties and synthesis of polymers, often involving research and development. Polymer Scientists apply this knowledge to develop new materials, improve existing products, and work in industrial settings. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, their daily tasks and industry applications differ slightly, with Polymer Chemistry emphasizing fundamental research and Polymer Science focusing on practical applications.

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Infographic showing various In Polymer Chemistry job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,916 per year, or $36 per hour.

Sr Research Engineer - Polymer Materials

James Hardie

Fontana, CA

$120K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

James Hardie rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 539 rated manufacturers

Job description

James Hardie is the industry leader in exterior home and outdoor living solutions, with a portfolio that includes fiber cement, fiber gypsum, composite and PVC decking and railing products. Our family of trusted brands includes Hardie, TimberTech, AZEK Exteriors, Versatex, fermacell, and StruXure.
With over 8,000 employees and our U.S. operating entities headquartered in Chicago, we boast 31 operating sites, 6 recycling facilities, and 6 research and development centers globally. Powered by a dynamic workforce, we're united by our purpose of Building a Better Future for All through sustainable innovation, a Zero Harm culture, and a commitment to empowering our people and communities.
For more information, visit www.jameshardie.com.

Summary

This position can be based at our Wilmington, OH or Fontana, CA plant

The Senior Research Engineer / Scientist - Polymer Materials will support the development, optimization, and deployment of PVC material technologies for highperformance, durable building products. This role requires deep fundamentals in polymer science and polymer engineering, with emphasis on PVC chemistry, physics, processing, and structure-property-process relationships, bridging laboratory research and manufacturing implementation.

What You'll Do:

Key Responsibilities

Polymer Formulation & Materials Development

Develop, optimize, and evaluate PVC formulations, including base resins, stabilizer systems, lubricants, impact modifiers, process aids, fillers, and pigments. Apply fundamental polymer science and engineering principles (polymer thermodynamics, viscoelasticity, molecular weight effects, phase behavior, and degradation mechanisms) to guide formulation design. Demonstrate strong understanding of PVCspecific behavior, including fusion/gelation, thermal stability, shear sensitivity, rheology, and morphology development. Establish and interpret structure-property-processing relationships to balance durability, mechanical performance, surface quality, and manufacturability. Conduct laboratoryscale compounding, extrusion, and molding to support new product, cost, and sustainability initiatives. Drive AI assisted material characterizations and formulation development. 

Process & Manufacturing Support

Support PVC extrusion and compounding processes, including formulationdriven troubleshooting of surface defects, instability, degradation, dimensional control, and throughput limitations. Apply polymer processing fundamentals (heat transfer, shear and elongational flow, residence time, die swell, cooling, and orientation effects) to diagnose and resolve manufacturing issues. Partner with manufacturing, quality, and process engineering teams to scale laboratory formulations to robust, highyield production. Support pilotscale and plant trials. 

Testing & Characterization

Design and execute experimental plans using thermal, mechanical, rheological, and environmental characterization techniques (DSC, TGA, DMA, rheometry, weathering, impact, tensile, flexural). Interpret data using firstprinciples understanding of polymer behavior and PVC material response. Maintain high standards for documentation and technical rigor. 

Project Management & Technical Communication

Plan and execute technical projects with defined scope and milestones. Communicate complex polymer concepts clearly through written reports and presentations. Collaborate with suppliers and internal stakeholders. 

What You'll Bring:

Required Qualifications 

PhD in Polymer Science, Polymer Engineering, Materials Science, or Chemical Engineering with 0-7 years of experience, or MS with 3-10 years of experience.  

Strong fundamental knowledge of polymer chemistry and polymer engineering. Deep understanding of PVC materials including stabilization chemistry, fusion behavior, degradation mechanisms, and extrusion processing.  

Experience in AI assisted material characterizations and formulation development for composite materials. 

Strong written and verbal communication skills. 

Travel -35% (mainly domestic) 

Preferred Qualifications 

Handson experience with PVC compounding, extrusion, or formulation development. Experience supporting highvolume manufacturing or pilotscale operations. Familiarity with building materials and durability requirements. 

What You'll Receive:

As of the date of this posting, a good faith estimate of the current pay scale for this position is $120,000 - $135,000.  Placement in the range depends on several factors such as experience, skills, geography and internal equity and may change over time. This position qualifies for benefits and you will be eligible to participate in a bonus plan.

At James Hardie, we recognize that our success depends on our people. We've worked hard to build a generous and competitive benefits program that demonstrates our commitment to our employees.

  • Compensation: competitive salary and bonus eligibility
  • Insurance: day-one health coverage medical, dental, vision, life insurance
  • Paid Time Off: vacation and company holidays
  • Retirement: 401(k) with 6% match
  • Investments: Employee Stock Purchase plan (ESP)
  • Work-Life Balance: parental leave, wellness programs
  • Purpose. Impact. Community: Sustainability Initiatives | James Hardie
  • More: Click here to learn more about our benefits

Build a Better Future for All - Apply now!

#LI-MB22

James Hardie Building Products Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, veteran's status, marital status, pregnancy, disability, or any other basis protected by law.
James Hardie will comply with any applicable state and local laws regarding employee leave benefits, including, but not limited to providing time off pursuant to the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, in accordance with its plans and policies.
The position responsibilities outlined above are in no way to be construed as all encompassing. Other duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may be required and/or assigned as necessary.

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