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Polymer Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sr Research Engineer - Polymer Materials

Fontana, CA · On-site

$120K - $135K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Apply fundamental polymer science and engineering principles (polymer thermodynamics, viscoelasticity, molecular weight effects, phase behavior, and degradation mechanisms) to guide formulation ...

Polymer Materials Scientist

Corona, CA · On-site

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Acts as a bridge between our scientists, engineers, customers, and operators with the world of ... years in polymer formulation development. * 5+ years in polymer manufacturing. * Superior data ...

Our Antibody Biopolymer Conjugate Drug (ABCD) platform merges the fields of protein engineering, organic chemistry, and polymer chemistry and is at the core of our discovery engine. We are seeking a ...

Our Antibody Biopolymer Conjugate Drug (ABCD) platform merges the fields of protein engineering, organic chemistry, and polymer chemistry and is at the core of our discovery engine. We are seeking a ...

Our Antibody Biopolymer Conjugate Drug (ABCD) platform merges the fields of protein engineering, organic chemistry, and polymer chemistry and is at the core of our discovery engine. We are seeking a ...

D. in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Polymer Science, or related field · ... Background/experience with mechanical, chemical and physical material testing techniques, such as ...

Polymer Chemist - Space Solar

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$125K - $200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Polymer Chemist - Space Solar Position Details Location: Los Angeles (Hawthorne), CA Employment ... Engineer moisture and oxygen barrier systems with ultra-low water vapor transmission rate (WVTR ...

D. or Masters in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Polymer Science, or related field · Background/experience with mechanical, chemical and physical material testing techniques ...

Polymer Additive Manufacturing Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$250K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Role: We're looking for an operations and systems engineering leader who can take polymer additive manufacturing equipment from standalone machines to fully integrated, automated production ...

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Polymer Developer information

What is a Polymer Developer?

A Polymer Developer is a software engineer who specializes in building web applications using the Polymer library, an open-source JavaScript library developed by Google. Polymer allows developers to create reusable custom elements and leverage web components to build fast, modular, and scalable web applications. Polymer Developers often work on front-end development, focusing on creating user interfaces that are both responsive and maintainable. They typically need strong skills in JavaScript, HTML, CSS, and an understanding of modern web standards.

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

To thrive as a Polymer Developer, you need a solid background in materials science, chemistry, and polymer engineering, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with laboratory analysis tools (like DSC, FTIR, and GPC), polymer processing equipment, and knowledge of industry standards or certifications is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork distinguish top performers in this field. These skills are vital to ensure the development of innovative, high-quality polymer materials that meet performance and safety requirements.

What are some common challenges Polymer Developers face when integrating web components into large-scale applications?

Polymer Developers often encounter challenges with compatibility and interoperability when integrating web components into large-scale applications, especially if the project involves legacy code or third-party frameworks. Ensuring consistent styling and behavior across different browsers can require additional polyfills and testing. Collaboration with front-end and back-end teams is crucial to establish clear component APIs and maintain code modularity. Successful developers proactively address these issues through thorough documentation, robust testing, and regular communication with cross-functional teams.

What is the difference between Polymer Developer vs Front-End Developer?

AspectPolymer DeveloperFront-End Developer
Required SkillsProficiency in Polymer, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, Web ComponentsProficiency in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, frameworks like React, Angular, Vue
Work EnvironmentDeveloping custom web components using Polymer for modern web appsBuilding user interfaces across various frameworks and technologies
Industry UsageUsed in companies adopting Polymer for web component developmentCommon across industries for general front-end development

Polymer Developers specialize in creating web components using the Polymer library, focusing on custom, reusable UI elements. Front-End Developers have a broader role, working with multiple frameworks and technologies to build complete user interfaces. While both roles require HTML, CSS, and JavaScript skills, Polymer Developers focus on Polymer-specific skills, whereas Front-End Developers have a wider tech stack and project scope.

What are popular job titles related to Polymer Developer jobs in California?

For Polymer Developer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Polymer Developer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Polymer Developer job openings:

Infographic showing various Polymer Developer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution.

Sr Research Engineer - Polymer Materials

James Hardie

Fontana, CA • On-site

$120K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


James Hardie rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 540 rated manufacturers


Job description

James Hardie is the industry leader in exterior home and outdoor living solutions, with a portfolio that includes fiber cement, fiber gypsum, composite and PVC decking and railing products. Our family of trusted brands includes Hardie, TimberTech, AZEK Exteriors, Versatex, fermacell, and StruXure.
With over 8,000 employees and our U.S. operating entities headquartered in Chicago, we boast 31 operating sites, 6 recycling facilities, and 6 research and development centers globally. Powered by a dynamic workforce, we're united by our purpose of Building a Better Future for All through sustainable innovation, a Zero Harm culture, and a commitment to empowering our people and communities.
For more information, visit www.jameshardie.com.

Summary

This position can be based at our Wilmington, OH or Fontana, CA plant

The Senior Research Engineer / Scientist - Polymer Materials will support the development, optimization, and deployment of PVC material technologies for highperformance, durable building products. This role requires deep fundamentals in polymer science and polymer engineering, with emphasis on PVC chemistry, physics, processing, and structure-property-process relationships, bridging laboratory research and manufacturing implementation.

What You'll Do:

Key Responsibilities

Polymer Formulation & Materials Development

Develop, optimize, and evaluate PVC formulations, including base resins, stabilizer systems, lubricants, impact modifiers, process aids, fillers, and pigments. Apply fundamental polymer science and engineering principles (polymer thermodynamics, viscoelasticity, molecular weight effects, phase behavior, and degradation mechanisms) to guide formulation design. Demonstrate strong understanding of PVCspecific behavior, including fusion/gelation, thermal stability, shear sensitivity, rheology, and morphology development. Establish and interpret structure-property-processing relationships to balance durability, mechanical performance, surface quality, and manufacturability. Conduct laboratoryscale compounding, extrusion, and molding to support new product, cost, and sustainability initiatives. Drive AI assisted material characterizations and formulation development. 

Process & Manufacturing Support

Support PVC extrusion and compounding processes, including formulationdriven troubleshooting of surface defects, instability, degradation, dimensional control, and throughput limitations. Apply polymer processing fundamentals (heat transfer, shear and elongational flow, residence time, die swell, cooling, and orientation effects) to diagnose and resolve manufacturing issues. Partner with manufacturing, quality, and process engineering teams to scale laboratory formulations to robust, highyield production. Support pilotscale and plant trials. 

Testing & Characterization

Design and execute experimental plans using thermal, mechanical, rheological, and environmental characterization techniques (DSC, TGA, DMA, rheometry, weathering, impact, tensile, flexural). Interpret data using firstprinciples understanding of polymer behavior and PVC material response. Maintain high standards for documentation and technical rigor. 

Project Management & Technical Communication

Plan and execute technical projects with defined scope and milestones. Communicate complex polymer concepts clearly through written reports and presentations. Collaborate with suppliers and internal stakeholders. 

What You'll Bring:

Required Qualifications 

PhD in Polymer Science, Polymer Engineering, Materials Science, or Chemical Engineering with 0-7 years of experience, or MS with 3-10 years of experience.  

Strong fundamental knowledge of polymer chemistry and polymer engineering. Deep understanding of PVC materials including stabilization chemistry, fusion behavior, degradation mechanisms, and extrusion processing.  

Experience in AI assisted material characterizations and formulation development for composite materials. 

Strong written and verbal communication skills. 

Travel -35% (mainly domestic) 

Preferred Qualifications 

Handson experience with PVC compounding, extrusion, or formulation development. Experience supporting highvolume manufacturing or pilotscale operations. Familiarity with building materials and durability requirements. 

What You'll Receive:

As of the date of this posting, a good faith estimate of the current pay scale for this position is $120,000 - $135,000.  Placement in the range depends on several factors such as experience, skills, geography and internal equity and may change over time. This position qualifies for benefits and you will be eligible to participate in a bonus plan.

At James Hardie, we recognize that our success depends on our people. We've worked hard to build a generous and competitive benefits program that demonstrates our commitment to our employees.

  • Compensation: competitive salary and bonus eligibility
  • Insurance: day-one health coverage medical, dental, vision, life insurance
  • Paid Time Off: vacation and company holidays
  • Retirement: 401(k) with 6% match
  • Investments: Employee Stock Purchase plan (ESP)
  • Work-Life Balance: parental leave, wellness programs
  • Purpose. Impact. Community: Sustainability Initiatives | James Hardie
  • More: Click here to learn more about our benefits

Build a Better Future for All - Apply now!

#LI-MB22

James Hardie Building Products Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, veteran's status, marital status, pregnancy, disability, or any other basis protected by law.
James Hardie will comply with any applicable state and local laws regarding employee leave benefits, including, but not limited to providing time off pursuant to the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, in accordance with its plans and policies.
The position responsibilities outlined above are in no way to be construed as all encompassing. Other duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may be required and/or assigned as necessary.


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