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Polymer Characterization Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Verde Bioresins, Inc

Polymer Chemist

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Polymer Chemist will be responsible for formulating and testing new bio-based polymers and additives for production, testing their characterization and analyzing experimental results to guide future ...

New

Henkel

Analytical Chemist

Bridgewater, NJ · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Perform GPC and thermal analysis for target compound and polymer characterization and quantification. * Design and execute analytical experiments; independently analyze, summarize, and communicate ...

New York University

POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE

New York, NY · On-site

$75K/yr

Application Instructions The successful candidate will have a strong demonstrated background in strong polymer science (polymer characterization, processing, and physics) as exemplified by a strong ...

Dart Container

Staff Engineer - Polymers

Mason, MI · On-site +1

Mentor and elevate colleagues in other functions in polymer characterization (rheology, mechanical testing, thermal analysis, and related methods). * Develop and maintain strong cross-functional ...

Hexion, Inc.

Polymer Scientist

Springfield, OR · On-site

S. in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline * 5+ years of experience in polymer synthesis and characterization (industrial or academic) * Strong ...

Hexion, Inc.

Polymer Scientist

Springfield, OR · On-site

S. in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline * 5+ years of experience in polymer synthesis and characterization (industrial or academic) * Strong ...

Hexion Careers

Polymer Scientist

Springfield, OR

S. in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline * 5+ years of experience in polymer synthesis and characterization (industrial or academic) * Strong ...

Dart Container

Staff Engineer - Polymers

Mason, MI · On-site

Mentor and elevate colleagues in other functions in polymer characterization (rheology, mechanical testing, thermal analysis, and related methods). * Develop and maintain strong cross-functional ...

Washington University of St. Louis

The work combines advanced polymer synthesis, precise stereochemical control, and materials fabrication and characterization to develop next-generation precursors for high-performance carbon fibers.

New

Atkore

Senior Technician - R&D

Dallas, TX · On-site

$33.12/hr

Support polymer research, formulation development, and new product development * Perform material characterization and performance testing (e.g., FTIR, DSC, TGA, tensile, impact, rheology) * Conduct ...

Atkore International

Senior Technician - R&D

Dallas, TX · On-site

$33.12/hr

Support polymer research, formulation development, and new product development * Perform material characterization and performance testing (e.g., FTIR, DSC, TGA, tensile, impact, rheology) * Conduct ...

New

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All JobsPolymer Characterization Jobs

Polymer Characterization information

See salary details

$50.5K

$89.3K

$155K

How much do polymer characterization jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 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 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 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, and why are they important?

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.
More about Polymer Characterization jobs
What cities are hiring for Polymer Characterization jobs? Cities with the most Polymer Characterization job openings:
What states have the most Polymer Characterization jobs? States with the most job openings for Polymer Characterization jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Polymer Characterization jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Polymer Characterization jobs are:
Polymer Characterization jobs near you
Infographic showing various Polymer Characterization job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,329 per year, or $42.9 per hour.
Lab Technician - Plastics Additives R&D

Lab Technician - Plastics Additives R&D

Milliken & Company

Spartanburg, SC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Milliken & Company rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 56 rated fashion and textile manufacturers

Job description

Milliken & Company is a global manufacturing leader whose focus on materials science delivers tomorrow's breakthroughs today. From industry-leading molecules to sustainable innovations, Milliken creates products that enhance people's lives and deliver solutions for its customers and communities. Drawing on thousands of patents and a portfolio with applications across the textile, flooring, chemical and healthcare businesses, the company harnesses a shared sense of integrity and excellence to positively impact the world for generations. Discover more about Milliken's curious minds and inspired solutions at Milliken.com and on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
POSITION TITLE
Lab Technician - Plastics Additives R&D
POSITION OVERVIEW
We are hiring a Lab Technician to execute analytical testing, support polymer processing trials, manage sample workflows, and coordinate across R&D, analytical labs, Technical Service & Development, regulatory, shipping, and commercial teams-a high-visibility role where your data directly informs product-release decisions, customer readiness, and commercialization timelines.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Execute analytical testing across polymer characterization and additive-analysis methods, including FTIR, GC, active oxygen, moisture, MFR, DSC, Crystex, SAOS/rheology, gel content, impact, and flexural testing.
  • Support polymer processing trials, including twin-screw extrusion compounding, injection molding, and blending operations-from material staging and parameter setup through sample collection, evaluation, and troubleshooting.
  • Manage sample workflows end-to-end-preparation, labeling, safe handling and storage of additives including peroxides and oxidizers, inventory tracking, QC release, and domestic/international shipment with SDS and regulatory documentation.
  • Coordinate across functions as the operational link between R&D scientists, analytical specialists, TS&D engineers, sales, regulatory, shipping, tolling facilities, and customer technical contacts.
  • Maintain data integrity across shared project datasets, master data files, QC spreadsheets, laboratory records, and Technical Service Requests (TSRs).
  • Support method development, validation, and transfer, including documentation, calibration standards, and troubleshooting analytical variability.
  • Communicate proactively-provide updates, flag risks, close loops, and keep stakeholders informed across concurrent projects.

QUALIFICATIONS - REQUIRED
  • BS degree in Chemistry or related technical field or 5 years of relevant work experience in lieu of degree
  • 2+ years of hands-on laboratory experience in a polymer, plastics, or chemical environment
  • Proficiency in multiple polymer characterization or analytical chemistry techniques
  • Working knowledge of sample preparation, handling, and storage for polymer and chemical-additive materials
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, Teams) and a LIMS or lab notebook
  • Strong organizational, communication, and multi-tasking skills

QUALIFICATIONS - PREFERRED
  • M.S. in a related field; 3+ years in plastics additives or polyolefin environments
  • Hands-on experience with polymer processing equipment, including twin-screw extruders, injection molding machines, single-screw extruders, or dry-blending/compounding equipment
  • Experience with advanced characterization techniques (Crystex, TREF/TGIC, GPC, SAOS, SEM)
  • Familiarity with method development/validation, DOE, JMP or Minitab, SAP, and international shipping documentation

The successful candidate will have strengths in the following:
Analytical Rigor
Produce data people can bet decisions on-accurately and independently
Problem Solving
Investigate anomalies and propose next steps, not just report results
Processing Aptitude
Understand how materials behave during extrusion, molding, and compounding-and how processing affects performance
Ownership
Track work from request to completion; nothing falls through the cracks
Cross-Functional Fluency
Speak the language of the lab, the plant, the customer, and the shipping dock
Milliken is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition, including but not limited to lactation), sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression (including transgender status), ancestry, national origin, citizenship, age physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
To request a reasonable accommodation to complete a job application, pre-employment testing, a job interview, or to otherwise participate in the hiring process, please contact TalentAcquisition@milliken.com.
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