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Polymer Characterization Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Corning

Senior Scientist - Polymer Mechanics

Corning, NY · On-site

$75K - $103K/yr

This role will focus on polymer thermomechanical characterization, mechanical testing, and failure mode analysis to generate fundamental insights into material behavior and drive improvements in ...

Corning

Senior Scientist - Polymer Mechanics

Corning, NY · On-site

$75K - $103K/yr

This role will focus on polymer thermomechanical characterization, mechanical testing, and failure mode analysis to generate fundamental insights into material behavior and drive improvements in ...

Corning

Senior Scientist - Polymer Mechanics

Corning, NY · On-site

$77K - $107K/yr

This role will focus on polymer thermomechanical characterization, mechanical testing, and failure mode analysis to generate fundamental insights into material behavior and drive improvements in ...

Corning

Senior Scientist - Polymer Mechanics

Corning, NY

$77K - $106K/yr

This role will focus on polymer thermomechanical characterization, mechanical testing, and failure mode analysis to generate fundamental insights into material behavior and drive improvements in ...

Entegris

Material Characterization Scientist

Aurora, IL · On-site

$114K - $144K/yr

Material Characterization Scientist Entegris is currently seeking a Polymer Characterization Scientist, CMP Pad to join our Materials Solutions Division R&D team. This position will be based at our ...

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Polymer Characterization information

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$50.5K

$89.3K

$155K

How much do polymer characterization jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer characterization in the United States is $89,329.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is polymer characterization?

Polymer characterization is the process of analyzing and determining the physical, chemical, and structural properties of polymers. This includes evaluating aspects such as molecular weight, composition, morphology, thermal behavior, and mechanical properties. Techniques such as spectroscopy, chromatography, microscopy, and rheology are commonly used in polymer characterization. The goal is to better understand how the polymer's structure relates to its performance and suitability for specific applications. Accurate characterization is crucial for quality control, research, and development in polymer science and engineering.

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

To thrive in Polymer Characterization, you need a solid background in chemistry or materials science, with experience in analyzing polymer structure and properties. Proficiency with analytical instruments such as FTIR, NMR, DSC, GPC, and relevant data analysis software is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help professionals excel in collaborating with teams and presenting findings. These skills ensure accurate material analysis, support research and development, and drive innovation in polymer applications.

What are some common challenges faced when performing polymer characterization in a laboratory setting?

One common challenge in polymer characterization is ensuring the accuracy and reproducibility of results, as sample preparation and instrument calibration can significantly impact data quality. Analysts often work with complex mixtures or new materials, requiring careful method selection and validation. Additionally, interpreting results—such as molecular weight distribution or thermal properties—can be complex and may require collaboration with research scientists, chemists, or engineers. Staying updated on the latest analytical techniques and troubleshooting instrument issues are also regular parts of the role.

What is the difference between Polymer Characterization vs Polymer Laboratory Technician?

AspectPolymer CharacterizationPolymer Laboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, or related field; experience with analytical techniquesAssociate's or Bachelor's degree; familiarity with lab procedures
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, quality control, R&D departmentsManufacturing labs, quality assurance, production support
Industry UsageUsed for detailed analysis and testing of polymersSupports lab operations, sample preparation, routine testing

Polymer Characterization professionals focus on analyzing and testing polymers to determine their properties using advanced techniques, while Polymer Laboratory Technicians assist with routine lab tasks and sample preparation. Both roles are essential in polymer research and manufacturing, but they differ in complexity and responsibilities.

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What states have the most Polymer Characterization jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Polymer Characterization jobs look for?

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Polymer Characterization jobs near you
Infographic showing various Polymer Characterization job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,329 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

Senior Scientist - Polymer Mechanics-Corning, New York

Corning

Hammondsport, NY • On-site

$77K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Corning rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 128 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 544 rated manufacturers

Job description

Requisition Number: 76698
The company built on breakthroughs.
Join us.
Corning is one of the world's leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries of what's possible.
How do we do this? With our people. They break through limitations and expectations - not once in a career, but every day. They help move our company, and the world, forward.
At Corning, there are endless possibilities for making an impact. You can help connect the unconnected, drive the future of automobiles, transform at-home entertainment, and ensure the delivery of lifesaving medicines. And so much more.
Come break through with us.
Corning's businesses are ever-evolving to best serve our customers, industries, and consumers. Today, we accelerate and transform life sciences, mobile consumer electronics, optical communications, display, automotive, and solar markets. We are changing the world with:
  • Trusted products that accelerate drug discovery, development, and delivery to save lives
  • Damage-resistant cover glass to enhance the devices that keep us connected
  • Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light
  • Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences
  • Auto glass and ceramics to drive cleaner, safer, and smarter transportation
  • Solar polysilicon, wafers, and innovative photovoltaic modules, enabling low-cost solar energy solutions

Role Purpose
Corning is seeking a Scientist to support the reliability assessment and performance evaluation of polymeric materials used in advanced applications. This role will focus on polymer thermomechanical characterization, mechanical testing, and failure mode analysis to generate fundamental insights into material behavior and drive improvements in product and material performance. The position will also involve implementing finite element analysis (FEA) and data-driven models.
The successful candidate will combine hands-on laboratory experimentation with rigorous technical analysis to investigate degradation and failure mechanisms, quantify reliability risks, and develop novel characterization approaches. This role requires strong scientific judgment, technical independence, and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design and execute experimental studies to evaluate polymer behavior under relevant application conditions, including load, temperature, time, and environmental exposure.
  • Conduct rheological, thermomechanical, and mechanical characterization of polymeric materials.
  • Perform failure mode and degradation analysis to identify mechanisms affecting reliability and long-term performance.
  • Develop, refine, and implement new or modified test methods to address technical gaps and improve characterization capability.
  • Analyze and interpret experimental results to establish structure-property-performance relationships and identify reliability risks.
  • Identify, evaluate, and recommend opportunities to improve material, product, or process performance based on scientific findings.
  • Cross validates experimental results with Finite Element Analysis.
  • Document and communicate technical results, conclusions, and recommendations through reports, presentations, and project updates.
  • Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and cross-functional teams to support research and development objectives.

Experiences/Education - Required
  • PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • Demonstrated research experience in polymer characterization, materials behavior, or reliability assessment.
  • Strong knowledge of polymer behavior under different application conditions, including mechanical, thermal, and environmental effects.
  • Experience with polymer characterization techniques, including rheological, thermomechanical, nanoindentation, and mechanical testing.
  • Experience with failure analysis, degradation studies, or materials reliability assessment.
  • Strong experimental design, data analysis, and scientific problem-solving skills.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Experiences/Education - Desired
  • Experience in Finite Element Analysis and data driven modeling
  • Experience developing or adapting laboratory test methods to address new technical challenges as well as familiarity with theoretical mechanics.
  • Familiarity with reliability assessment of polymeric materials in product or application-focused environments.
  • Experience translating characterization results into recommendations for product, material, or process improvement.
  • Record of technical publications, presentations, patents, or other research contributions.

This position supports immigration sponsorship.
The range for this position is $77,927.00 - $107,150.00 assuming full time status. Starting pay for the successful applicant is dependent on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education.
A job that shapes a life.
Corning offers you the total package.
Your well-being is our priority. Our compensation and benefits package supports your health and wellness, financial aspirations, and career from day one.
  • Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win.
  • As part of our commitment to your financial well-being, we provide a 100% company-paid pension benefit with fixed contributions that grow throughout your career. Combined with matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan, Corning's total contributions to your retirement accounts can reach between 7% and 12% of your pay, depending on your age and years of service.
  • Our health and well-being benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company-paid life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your family.
  • Getting paid for our work is important, but feeling appreciated and recognized for those contributions motivates us much more. That's why Corning offers a recognition program to celebrate successes and reward colleagues who make exceptional contributions.

We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status.
Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and considers requests for reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other benefits and privileges of employment. To submit a request for reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact us at accommodations@corning.com.

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