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Polymer Chemist Entry Level Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chemical Processing Operator I

Detroit, MI · On-site

$19 - $21.75/hr

Mentors new hire entry-level chemists on standard operating procedures and provides initial ... The Republic Services Polymer Center is the nation's first integrated plastics recycling facility.

Chemical Processing Operator I

Romulus, MI · On-site

$18.50 - $21.25/hr

Mentors new hire entry-level chemists on standard operating procedures and provides initial ... The Republic Services Polymer Center is the nation's first integrated plastics recycling facility.

Chemical Processing Operator I

Romulus, MI · On-site

$18.50 - $21.25/hr

Mentors new hire entry-level chemists on standard operating procedures and provides initial ... The Republic Services Polymer Center is the nation's first integrated plastics recycling facility.

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Polymer Chemist Entry Level information

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$16

$25

$34

How much do polymer chemist entry level jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for polymer chemist entry level in the United States is $25.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level polymer chemist do?

An entry level polymer chemist typically assists in researching, developing, and testing new polymer materials or improving existing ones. They work under the supervision of more experienced chemists, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and preparing reports. Their tasks may include synthesizing polymers, performing quality control tests, and helping with scale-up processes for manufacturing. Entry level polymer chemists often work in industries such as plastics, coatings, adhesives, or biomedical materials.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level polymer chemist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry-Level Polymer Chemist, you typically need a bachelor's or master's degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or materials science, with a strong foundation in organic and polymer chemistry. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation such as FTIR, NMR, GPC, and experience using chemical analysis software are often required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for safely conducting experiments, accurately analyzing data, and contributing to innovative polymer research and development.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level polymer chemists, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level polymer chemists often encounter challenges such as mastering the operation of specialized laboratory equipment, understanding complex polymer characterization techniques, and adapting to fast-paced research environments. To overcome these obstacles, new chemists should actively seek guidance from experienced colleagues, participate in ongoing training sessions, and stay current with advancements in polymer science by reading relevant literature. Building strong communication skills also helps when collaborating with cross-functional teams, such as engineers and quality control specialists, to ensure project success.

What is the difference between Polymer Chemist Entry Level vs Polymer Scientist?

AspectPolymer Chemist Entry LevelPolymer Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's degree, often with specialized research experience
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, manufacturing facilities, research centersResearch and development labs, industrial settings, academia
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, chemical companies, research institutionsAdvanced research firms, R&D departments, academia

The main difference between a Polymer Chemist Entry Level and a Polymer Scientist lies in experience and scope. Entry-level roles focus on supporting research and routine testing, while Polymer Scientists often lead projects and conduct advanced research. Both roles require a strong background in chemistry and work in similar environments, but the Scientist position typically demands more specialized knowledge and experience.

More about Polymer Chemist Entry Level jobs
What cities are hiring for Polymer Chemist Entry Level jobs? Cities with the most Polymer Chemist Entry Level job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Polymer Chemist jobs? The most popular types of Polymer Chemist jobs are:
What states have the most Polymer Chemist Entry Level jobs? States with the most job openings for Polymer Chemist Entry Level jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Polymer Chemist Entry Level jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Polymer Chemist Entry Level jobs are:
Infographic showing various Polymer Chemist Entry Level job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,079 per year, or $25 per hour.

Chemical Processing Operator I

Republic Services

Lewisberry, PA • On-site

$18.75 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Republic Services rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 574 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 90 rated recycling and waste


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY: The Chemical Processing Operator I handles, packages, and disposes of hazardous and non-hazardous materials in full compliance with all applicable safety and environmental regulations. The incumbent collaborates with TSDF (Treatment, Storage, and Disposal Facility) Technicians in various environments, including warehouses, plants, and outdoor settings.
PRINCIPLE RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Handles, classifies, segregates, labels, and packages hazardous and non-hazardous materials in accordance with federal and State regulations.
  • Segregates chemicals by compatibility and DOT Hazard class.
  • Determines which chemicals can be safely packed/consolidated together.
  • Performs consolidation of hazardous materials/waste (i/e/, bulking, repackaging) in a safe and compliant manner.
  • Prepares shipping documents and coordinates transportation of chemical products and hazardous waste materials.
  • Approves packing slips for outbound, creates inventories, QA/QC, and waste tracking documents.
  • Fosters knowledge of final disposition facility protocols.
  • Mentors new hire entry-level chemists on standard operating procedures and provides initial training.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Knowledge of applicable DOT, EPA, and OSHA regulations preferred
  • Ability to wear and safely use all levels of personal protective equipment (PPE), including air-purifying respirators
  • Demonstrated accuracy, thoroughness, and attention to detail.
  • Ability to prioritize, stay focused, and handle multiple, diverse responsibilities.
  • Ability to pass a Pre-Employment Physical, Drug Screen, and Alcohol testing.
  • Ability to pass a Pre-Employment Background Screening.
  • Experience in hazardous waste classification, lab pack segregation, and waste handling preferred.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • 0 - 2 Years of overall relevant work experience.
  • Ability to pass 40-hour HAZWOPER Training upon hire.

Rewarding Compensation and Benefits
Eligible employees can elect to participate in:
• Comprehensive medical benefits coverage, dental plans and vision coverage.
• Health care and dependent care spending accounts.
• Short- and long-term disability.
• Life insurance and accidental death & dismemberment insurance.
• Employee and Family Assistance Program (EAP).
• Employee discount programs.
• Retirement plan with a generous company match.
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP).
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Benefits: https://jobs.republicservices.com/us/en/about-us/benefits
The statements used herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by an employee in this position, and are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required by an incumbent so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the Company.
EEO STATEMENT:Republic Services is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, relationship or association with a protected veteran (spouses or other family members), genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. For any concerns relating to Republic Services' commitment to equal opportunity employment, you may contact the AWARE Line at 1-866-3-AWARE-4.
ABOUT THE COMPANY
Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE: RSG) is a leader in the environmental services industry. We provide customers with the most complete set of products and services, including recycling, waste, special waste, hazardous waste and field services. Our industry-leading commitments to advance circularity and support decarbonization are helping deliver on our vision to partner with customers to create a more sustainable world.
In 2025, Republic's total company revenue was $16.6 billion, and adjusted EBITDA was $5.3 billion. We serve 13 million customers and operate more than 1,000 locations, including collection and transfer stations, recycling and polymer centers, treatment facilities, and landfills.
Although we operate across North America, the collection, recycling, treatment, or disposal of materials is a local business, and the dynamics and opportunities differ in each market we serve. By combining local operational management with standardized business practices, we drive greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational decisions at the local level, closest to the customer.
Our customers, including small businesses, major corporations and municipalities, want a partner with the expertise and capabilities to effectively manage their multiple recycling and waste streams. They choose Republic Services because we are committed to exceeding their expectations and helping them achieve their sustainability goals. Our 42,000 team members understand that it's not just what we do that matters, but how we do it.
Our company values guide our daily actions:
  • Safe: We protect the livelihoods of our colleagues and communities.
  • Committed to Serve: We go above and beyond to exceed our customers' expectations.
  • Environmentally Responsible: We take action to improve our environment.
  • Driven: We deliver results in the right way.
  • Human-Centered: We respect the dignity and unique potential of every person.

We are proud of our high employee engagement score of 86. We have an inclusive and diverse culture where every voice counts. In addition, our team positively impacted 5.1 million people in 2024 through the Republic Services Charitable Foundation and local community grants. These projects are designed to meet the specific needs of the communities we serve, with a focus on building sustainable neighborhoods.
STRATEGY
Republic Services' strategy is designed to generate profitable growth. Through acquisitions and industry advancements, we safely and sustainably manage our customers' multiple waste streams through a North American footprint of vertically integrated assets.
We focus on three areas of growth to meet the increasing needs of our customers: recycling and waste, environmental solutions and sustainability innovation.
With our integrated approach, strengthening our position in one area advances other areas of our business. For example, as we grow volume in recycling and waste, we collect additional material to bolster our circularity capabilities. And as we expand environmental solutions, we drive additional opportunities to provide these services to our existing recycling and waste customers.
Recycling and Waste
We continue to expand our recycling and waste business footprint throughout North America through organic growth and targeted acquisitions. The 13 million customers we serve and our more than 5 million pick-ups per day provide us with a distinct advantage. We aggregate materials at scale, unlocking new opportunities for advanced recycling. In addition, we are cross-selling new products and services to better meet our customers' specific needs.
Environmental Solutions
Our comprehensive environmental solutions capabilities help customers safely manage their most technical waste streams. We are expanding both our capabilities and our geographic footprint. We see strong growth opportunities for our offerings, including PFAS remediation, an increasing customer need.
Sustainability Innovation
Republic's recent innovations to advance circularity and decarbonization demonstrate our unique ability to leverage sustainability as a platform for growth.
The Republic Services Polymer Center is the nation's first integrated plastics recycling facility. These innovative sites process rigid plastics from our recycling centers, producing recycled materials that promote true bottle-to-bottle circularity. We also formed Blue Polymers, a joint venture with Ravago, to develop facilities that will further process plastic material from our Polymer Centers to help meet the growing demand for sustainable packaging. We are building a network of Polymer Centers and Blue Polymer facilities across North America.
Our customers are increasingly looking for decarbonization solutions, and we are leveraging our network of landfills to meet that need. Republic is committed to harnessing landfill gas, a natural byproduct of decomposing waste, and converting it to energy. Republic has partnered with renewable gas developers to construct Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) plants at our landfills, expanding beyond the 77 projects we currently have to make progress towards our goal to beneficially reuse 50% more biogas by 2030 (2017 baseline year).
RECENT RECOGNITION
  • Barron's 100 Most Sustainable Companies
  • CDP Discloser
  • Dow Jones Best-In-Class Indices
  • Ethisphere's World's Most Ethical Companies
  • Fortune World's Most Admired Companies
  • Great Place to Work
  • Sustainability Yearbook S&P Global

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