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Polymer Chemist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Amat

Polymer Chemist/Plating Expert

Santa Clara, CA · On-site +1

$161K - $221K/yr

Design, formulate, and characterize polymer-based materials, coatings, and surface treatments for ... Develop internal chemistry capabilities and mentor junior chemists. Develop a deep understanding of ...

Purosil LLC

Polymer Materials Scientist

Corona, CA · On-site

Your New Challenge in Polymer Chemistry? Are you looking for a growing entrepreneurial organization where you can make a significant impact? We need a visionary polymer chemist and/or material ...

TekWissen LLC

Scientist - Polymer Chemistry

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Scientist I, Manufacturing Sciences / Scientist - Polymer Chemistry Location: Sunnyvale, CA - 94085 Duration: 12 Months Job Type: Temporary Assignment Work Type: Onsite Shift: Monday to Friday from ...

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Polymer Chemist information

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How much do polymer chemist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer chemist 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 a polymer chemist?

A polymer chemist works with molecular or atomic materials to study the way these molecules form and bond. Polymers, or long strings of molecules, can be manipulated by scientists to be used in products such as nylon clothing, pharmaceuticals, plastics, paints, and Teflon-coated pans. In this career, your job duties include both creating new materials and conducting research to make existing materials and products better. You conduct various tests in a lab using different methods to find solutions. You can find work in a pharmaceutical company, chemical manufacturer, or in the energy industry. The qualifications needed for a career as a polymer chemist include a Ph.D. in chemistry and significant on-the-job training.

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

To thrive as a Polymer Chemist, you need a solid background in chemistry, polymer science, and materials characterization, usually supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in chemistry or materials science. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation (such as FTIR, NMR, and GPC), data analysis software, and safety protocols is critical. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help you design experiments and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams. These competencies enable innovation, ensure precise research outcomes, and facilitate the development of advanced polymer materials for various industries.

What are some common challenges faced by polymer chemists when scaling up laboratory formulations to industrial production?

Polymer Chemists often encounter challenges when transitioning from small-scale laboratory formulations to full-scale industrial production. These include maintaining consistent polymer properties, ensuring purity, and managing variables like temperature and mixing speed that can affect the final product. Additionally, sourcing raw materials at scale and adapting processes to industrial equipment require close collaboration with process engineers and production teams. Problem-solving and adaptability are key, as unforeseen issues can arise during scale-up that were not evident in the lab.

What is the difference between Polymer Chemist vs Materials Scientist?

AspectPolymer ChemistMaterials Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science, Chemistry, or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D departments, manufacturing facilitiesLaboratories, research centers, manufacturing plants
Industry UsageFocus on polymer synthesis, properties, and applicationsBroader focus on various materials including metals, ceramics, polymers
Common Search/ComparisonPolymer Chemist vs Materials Scientist

Polymer Chemists specialize in developing and testing polymers, focusing on their chemical properties and applications. Materials Scientists have a broader scope, working with various materials including metals, ceramics, and polymers. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, Polymer Chemists are more focused on polymer-specific research, whereas Materials Scientists explore a wider range of materials for diverse industries.

How much do polymer chemists make?

Polymer chemists typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced chemists or those in managerial roles can earn over $120,000. Skills in laboratory techniques and knowledge of polymer synthesis can influence earning potential.

What jobs can you get with a polymer chemist degree?

A polymer chemist degree can lead to roles such as research scientist, materials developer, quality control analyst, or product engineer in industries like plastics, textiles, automotive, and healthcare. These positions often require knowledge of polymer synthesis, characterization techniques, and laboratory skills, with opportunities in R&D, manufacturing, and quality assurance.
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Polymer Chemist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Polymer Chemist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,916 per year, or $36 per hour.

Senior Polymer Chemist

Verde Bioresins, Inc

Fullerton, CA

$115K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Verde Bioresins, Inc™ is an innovative material science company with the mission of creating sustainable solutions to reduce plastic waste in our natural environment. With speed and agility in mind, Verde partners diligently with its brand and manufacturing customers to design, engineer and manufacture sustainable biopolymer technology for durable consumer goods.

Salary: $115,000.00 - $130,000.00 per year

LOCATION: Fullerton, CA

(CA CANDIDATES ONLY)

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Polymer Chemist will report to our Head of R&D and 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 directions in our R&D lab. The ideal candidate will be a self-starter and thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

· Provide expertise in polymer processing/structure/property relationships and guide selection of raw materials and manufacturing parameters.

· Support the development of PolyEarthylene resins from research into product development and manufacturing, in collaboration with process development, sales and operations teams

· Maintain hands-on involvement in laboratory experimentation and troubleshooting throughout the development lifecycle

· Help develop high quality technical communication, including reports and presentations

· Engage with Verde sales teams to help identify technical opportunities, guide portfolio strategy, and support commercialization of PolyEarthylene resins.

· Leverage external partnerships and third-party organizations to accelerate learning, expand testing capabilities, and enhance technology development.

· Support customer trials with occasional travel (5-10%)

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

· Ph.D. or Masters in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Polymer Science, or related field

· Background/experience with mechanical, chemical and physical material testing techniques, such as ASTM tensile and flexural strength determination, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and polymer rheology

· Knowledge of modern plastic manufacturing processes, including injection molding, blow molding, thermoforming, film extrusion/lamination, and rapid prototyping

· Knowledge and familiarity with polyolefin materials and biobased polyesters, such as polylactic acid

· Knowledge and application of laboratory safety best practices, including SDS cataloging, material storage, material disposal, inventory, and maintenance of related equipment

· Ability to plan and execute independent lab work, while collaborating effectively in multidisciplinary teams.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

·The position requires physical activity and the handling of chemicals. Candidates are required to follow the safety protocols and be familiar with personal protective equipment (PPE) while working in the laboratory environment.

·5-10% travel required to support customer trialsFor more information visit us at www.verdebioresins.com

Apply