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Polymer Coating Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Scientist

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$88K - $121K/yr

Formulate coatings compatible with roll coating, spray, curtain coating, vacuum coating, and flow ... PhD in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science (highly preferred). * 5-10+ years of ...

Sr. Scientist

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$88K - $121K/yr

Formulate coatings compatible with roll coating, spray, curtain coating, vacuum coating, and flow ... PhD in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science (highly preferred). * 5-10+ years of ...

Research Scientist

Billerica, MA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

... coating behavior, device electro-optical response, and reliability. The role requires strong ... Strong background in polymer materials, surface science, interfaces, emulsions, encapsulation ...

You'll own key external coating supplier relationships. This is a hands-on, individual-contributor ... Develop, qualify, and optimize protective metallic, passivation, or polymer coatings (e.g ...

Polymer Chemist/Plating Expert

Santa Clara, CA · On-site +1

$161K - $221K/yr

If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation ... improve coating quality, performance, and manufacturing efficiency. Design, formulate, and ...

Principal Scientist - Rubber & Tire Technologies Location: Macon, GA Department: Research ... Polymer additives and specialty chemicals * Surface chemistry and dispersions * Release coating ...

Sr. Process Engineer

Hayward, CA · On-site

$119K - $154K/yr

Strong understanding of separator materials, polymer/inorganic composites, and their role in solid-state or lithium-ion batteries * Expertise in slurry formulation, rheology, and coating science for ...

Showing results 41-60

Polymer Coating Scientist information

See salary details

$58.5K

$87.8K

$123.5K

How much do polymer coating scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer coating scientist in the United States is $87,842.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a polymer coating scientist do?

A Polymer Coating Scientist researches, develops, and tests polymer-based coatings for various applications, such as automotive, medical devices, electronics, or packaging. They work on formulating new coating materials, improving existing coatings, and ensuring that these materials meet specific performance standards like durability, adhesion, and resistance to environmental factors. Their work often involves both laboratory experiments and collaboration with engineers and manufacturers to bring new products to market.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a polymer coating scientist?

To thrive as a Polymer Coating Scientist, you need a solid background in chemistry, polymer science, and materials engineering, typically supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation such as spectrometers, rheometers, and coating application systems, as well as experience with analytical software and safety protocols, are crucial. Creative problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective collaboration skills help drive innovation and successful project outcomes. These capabilities are essential for developing high-performance coatings, ensuring product quality, and advancing research in a competitive industry.

What are some common challenges faced by polymer coating scientists in scaling up formulations from the lab to full production?

Polymer Coating Scientists often encounter challenges when transitioning a coating formulation from lab-scale trials to large-scale manufacturing. Differences in equipment, process parameters, and raw material variability can affect the performance and consistency of the final product. Ensuring uniform coating thickness and adhesion, while maintaining desired properties, requires close collaboration with process engineers and quality control teams. Addressing these challenges involves thorough testing, process optimization, and clear documentation to ensure reproducibility and scalability.

What is the difference between Polymer Coating Scientist vs Materials Scientist?

AspectPolymer Coating ScientistMaterials Scientist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Materials Science, or Chemical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science, Chemistry, or Physics
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D departments, manufacturing facilitiesLaboratories, research centers, industrial settings
Industry UsageCoatings, paints, surface treatmentsBroad industries including aerospace, automotive, electronics

The main difference is that a Polymer Coating Scientist specializes in developing and testing polymer-based coatings, focusing on surface protection and durability. In contrast, a Materials Scientist has a broader scope, working with various materials to improve properties across multiple industries. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work in similar environments, but their specific focus areas differ.

What are popular job titles related to Polymer Coating Scientist jobs?

For Polymer Coating Scientist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Polymer Coating Scientist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,842 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Senior Scientist - CB3 - NM

Houston, TX • On-site

Axalta Coating Systems
Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

$87K - $119K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Axalta Coating Systems rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Axalta has remained at the forefront of the coatings industry by continually investing in innovative solutions. We engineer technologies that protect customers' products - whether they are battling heat, light, corrosion, abrasion, moisture, or chemicals - and add dimension and beauty with colourful finishes. We have a vast and ever-evolving portfolio of brands primed to play an important part in everything from modernizing infrastructure around the world to enabling the next generation of electric and autonomous vehicles.
We are currently looking for a Senior Scientist to join us at our facility in Houston, TX.
Summary:
At Axalta, the strength of our company lies in our people, and our legacy is built on more than 150 years in the coatings industry. With over 12,000 employees globally and $6.5B annual revenue, singular focus on providing brilliant coatings sets us apart. Axalta Coating Systems is the only leading global coatings company dedicated solely to the development, manufacture and sale of liquid and powder coatings. We serve customers in the automotive, transportation, general industrial and architectural and decorative sectors. Our innovative products and services include paint, color matching tools, application technologies and customer training and business management systems.
Position Description:
Axalta Coating Systems is seeking an experienced individual to join our General Industrial Coatings Technology Group in Houston, Texas. The Senior Chemist will manage the testing lab area and personnel. They will be responsible for daily activities, coordinate test projects, organize and maintain ISO-17025 program and certifications, coordinate multi-site testing, understand and interpret paint test specifications and OEM testing program processes for General Industrial Americas regional business segments. The role of Senior Chemist will report to the Team Manager.
Responsibilities:
  • Apply statistical methods to investigate problems and analyze results.
  • Organize objectives, set milestones and deliver results against aggressive timelines.
  • Assign, track and provide updates on multiple technical projects submitted to the Testing Lab.
  • Administer an established ISO-17025-2017 program. Includes internal and external audits, training, required documentation and equipment calibrations. Identify possible scope expansion opportunities.
  • Maintain and monitor various types of laboratory equipment to include DI Water System, Salt Fog, CCT and Humidity chambers. Maintain and monitor artificial weathering equipment such as Xenon Arc and QUV chambers.
  • Network and coordinate with internal and external testing lab sites.
  • Manage costs and test center budget.

Qualifications:
  • Incumbent must be able to perform each duty satisfactorily and in a safe manner. The items listed below represent some of the knowledge, skills, and experience required.
  • BS/MS/PhD Degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science or Coatings is preferred. Serious consideration will be given to degreed candidates in other science related fields with applicable work experience.
  • Must have at least 5-10 years of practical R&D or test lab experience. Laboratory management or technical leadership experience preferred.
  • Experience in testing methodology and techniques relating to Coatings, Plastics, Composites, Polymers is a plus.
  • Ability to develop and/or implement coating characterization testing methods, calibrate & run instrumentation and interpret results.
  • Knowledge of design of experiment (DOE) techniques and statistical analysis.
  • Excellent communication skills (verbal and written), problem solving capabilities and the ability to work both independently and as a part of a team.
  • Willingness and ability to travel if needed.

This is an active opening for which we are recruiting to fill immediately.
Axalta operates its business in two segments: Performance Coatings and Mobility Coatings, which serve four end markets, including Refinish, Industrial, Light Vehicle and Commercial Vehicle, across North America, EMEA, Latin America and Asia-Pacific. Our diverse global footprint allows us to deliver solutions in over 140+ countries and coat 30 million vehicles per year. We've recently set an exciting 2040 carbon neutrality goal, in addition to 10 other sustainability initiatives, and we take pride in working with our customers to optimize their businesses and achieve their goals.
Our Company:
Axalta has remained at the forefront of the coatings industry by continually investing in innovative solutions. We engineer technologies that protect customers' products - whether they are battling heat, light, corrosion, abrasion, moisture, or chemicals - and add dimension and beauty with colorful finishes. We have a vast and ever-evolving portfolio of brands primed to play an important part in everything from modernizing infrastructure around the world to enabling the next generation of electric and autonomous vehicles.
Axalta operates its business in two segments: Performance Coatings and Mobility Coatings, which serve four end markets, including Refinish, Industrial, Light Vehicle and Commercial Vehicle, across North America, EMEA, Latin America and Asia-Pacific. Our diverse global footprint allows us to deliver solutions in over 140+ countries and coat 30 million vehicles per year. We've recently set an exciting 2040 carbon neutrality goal, in addition to 10 other sustainability initiatives, and we take pride in working with our customers to optimize their businesses and achieve their goals.
Axalta may use technology-assisted tools, including artificial intelligence (AI), to support certain aspects of the recruitment and selection process. These tools may be used to help manage applications, identify job-related qualifications, and assist recruiter review. All hiring decisions involve human oversight and review.
Recruitment Fraud Alert: We take candidate safety seriously. If you believe you've encountered a fraudulent job posting claiming to represent our company, please include a link or screenshot and report it to TA-Support-Center@axalta.com.
1.2 - First/Mid Level Officials and Managers (EEO-1 Job Categories-United States of America)

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