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Polymer Characterization Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Conduct laboratory testing and characterization of epoxy systems, polyurethane systems, adhesives ... Associate degree or Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical ...

With a portfolio of highly adaptable vinyl and polyolefin polymer technologies as well as a full ... quality, and performing process characterization and optimization studies using designed ...

Leading various characterization and design projects * Following standard written protocols and ... Understanding of Polymer Chemistry * Understanding of Systems Engineering * Understanding of ...

Senior Staff Scientist

Sugar Land, TX · On-site

$82K - $112K/yr

Experience with synthetic chemistry and advanced characterization techniques. * Strong background in interfacial science, non-ionic surfactant technologies, polymer chemistry, and formulation science ...

New

Perform material testing and characterization to verify mechanical, thermal, and environmental ... Knowledge of polymer matrix composites and composite fabrication methods. * Experience interpreting ...

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Showing results 1-20

Polymer Characterization information

See Houston, TX salary details

$48.2K

$85.3K

$148K

How much do polymer characterization jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer characterization in Houston, TX is $85,307.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,800.00 and $109,800.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Polymer Characterization jobs in Houston, TX?

For Polymer Characterization jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Polymer Characterization jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Polymer Characterization jobs in Houston, TX are:

Infographic showing various Polymer Characterization job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,307 per year, or $41 per hour.

Polymers Application Development Technologist

ExxonMobil

Baytown, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life

Posted 20 days ago


ExxonMobil rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 230 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

72nd of 87 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

About us
At ExxonMobil, our vision is to lead in energy innovations that advance modern living while reducing emissions. As one of the world's largest publicly traded energy and chemical companies, we are powered by a unique and diverse workforce fueled by the pride in what we do and what we stand for.
The success of our Upstream, Product Solutions and Low Carbon Solutions businesses is the result of the talent, curiosity and drive of our people. They bring solutions every day to optimize our strategy in energy, chemicals, lubricants and lower-emissions technologies.
We invite you to bring your ideas to ExxonMobil to help create sustainable solutions that improve quality of life and meet society's evolving needs. Learn more about our What and our Why and how we canwork together.
About ExxonMobil Baytown
The ExxonMobil Baytown Complex is one of the world's largest and most advanced refining and petrochemical facilities. Since opening in 1920, it has expanded to four manufacturing sites, including a plastics plant in nearby Mont Belvieu, as well as a global technology center-spanning 3,400 acres along the Houston Ship Channel.
With highly integrated facilities and a workforce of approximately 7,000 people, we produce the fuels, chemicals, and materials that power industries and enhance daily life-from transportation and construction to packaging and medical supplies.
Looking ahead, we're also investing in technologies to lower emissions and increase plastic recycling rates. At Baytown, we don't just meet today's needs-we're helping shape tomorrow.
What role you will play in our team
You will contribute to the growth of our polyolefin elastomer and polypropylene businesses as an experienced polymer application development professional. In this role you will apply deep expertise in polymer applications, customer development, and problem solving to deliver valued application solutions in existing and new markets. You will maintain strong awareness of industry trends and apply your experience to solve technical challenges that unlock value for our customers. This role will require independent problem-solving skills, close collaboration with other functions (marketing, research, and sales), and regular interaction with our customers and product development professionals within Product Technology.
You will work on-site at the Baytown Technology and Engineering Complex in Baytown, Texas. You may also make occasional trips to the ExxonMobil Campus in Spring, TX to collaborate with commercial colleagues. You will routinely travel within North America to support customer and application development trials (25-65% time); sometimes with short notice.
What you will do
  • Lead integrated application development project teams to develop new polyolefin elastomer and polypropylene application solutions in existing and new markets
  • Work closely with other key functions such as marketing, product development, research, and sales
  • Communicate and share new application solutions with the Polypropylene, VistamaxxTM, and ExactTM business
  • Provide technical support to ExxonMobil's customers converting polyolefin elastomer and polypropylene resins into finished products
  • Support intellectual property (IP) strategy and contribute to IP-related activities
  • Represent ExxonMobil in interactions with customers, key external partners, academic collaborators, and industry forums
  • Provide technical leadership and ensure quality assurance for customer and application deliverables
  • Leverage depth and/or breadth of experience to identify cross-functional business opportunities
  • Participate in internal networks to share expertise and strengthen organizational competency
  • Mentor and support development of early-career colleagues

About You
Minimum Skills and Qualifications
  • PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Polymer Science, Materials Science, or related degree
  • 5-10 years of industry experience in polyolefin application conversion technologies and processing techniques
  • Solid understanding of polymer characterization methods
  • Demonstrated proficiency in statistics, analytical problem-solving, and hands-on laboratory experimentation
  • Highly organized, computer-proficient, and effective in both written and verbal communication
  • Strong interpersonal skills; self-motivated and collaborative team player
  • Specialization in highly filled application compounding is a plus
  • Familiarity with polyolefin elastomer and polypropylene manufacturing processes is a plus

Preferred Qualifications / Experience
  • Industry experience in polyolefin extrusion technology, compounding techniques, and formulation development, with knowledge of construction applications
  • Excellent communication skills, problem-solving skills, and adaptability
  • Strong project management and organization skills with demonstrated ability to work effectively across multiple interfaces and cross-functional teams
  • Self-driven mindset, with the ability to engage in industry groups and participate in conferences to position ExxonMobil's polyolefin products within the competitive landscape and to identify and progress new opportunities with customers
  • Fundamental understanding of polymer product-structure property relationship, particularly as they relate to polypropylene and polyolefin-based elastomers
  • Knowledgeable of Intellectual property development/assessment/procurement. Demonstrated patent and/or publications record

Your Total Rewards
An ExxonMobil career is one designed to last. Our commitment to you runs deep: our employees grow personally and professionally, with benefits built on our core categories of health, security, finance, and life. Individual pay is determined based on various factors including degree/education, discipline, year of study, skills, abilities, qualifications, and work experience.
More information on our Company's benefits can be found at www.exxonmobilfamily.com.
Please note pay rates and benefits may be changed from time to time without notice, subject to applicable law.
Relocation Options
Relocation benefits may be available to you based on ExxonMobil eligibility guidelines.
Equal Opportunity Employer
ExxonMobil is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, protected veteran status, genetic information, or physical or mental disability.
Alternate Location:
Nothing herein is intended to override the corporate separateness of local entities. Working relationships discussed herein do not necessarily represent a reporting connection, but may reflect a functional guidance, stewardship, or service relationship.
Exxon Mobil Corporation has numerous affiliates, many with names that include ExxonMobil, Exxon, Esso and Mobil. For convenience and simplicity, those terms and terms like corporation, company, our, we and its are sometimes used as abbreviated references to specific affiliates or affiliate groups. Abbreviated references describing global or regional operational organizations and global or regional business lines are also sometimes used for convenience and simplicity. Similarly, ExxonMobil has business relationships with thousands of customers, suppliers, governments, and others. For convenience and simplicity, words like venture, joint venture, partnership, co-venturer, and partner are used to indicate business relationships involving common activities and interests, and those words may not indicate precise legal relationships.

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