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Polymer Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Apple

Coating Materials Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

Our Materials Engineering Product Design team is dedicated to creating and optimizing polymer materials. We influence and enable innovative designs across all Apple product lines year after year. We ...

Purosil LLC

Polymer Materials Scientist

Corona, CA · On-site

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 ...

Kodiak Sciences Inc.

Polymer Chemist

Palo Alto, CA

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 ...

Kodiak Sciences Inc

Polymer Chemist

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

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 ...

Kodiak Sciences Inc.

Polymer Chemist

Palo Alto, CA

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 ...

Verde Bioresins, Inc

Polymer Chemist

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

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

Starpath

Polymer Chemist - Space Solar

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$125K - $200K/yr

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 ...

Apple

Coating Materials Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$150K - $277K/yr

Our Materials Engineering Product Design team is dedicated to creating and optimizing polymer materials. We influence and enable innovative designs across all Apple product lines year after year. We ...

Dexcom

Sr Chemical Process Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

You have expertise in life science, chemistry, polymer science or polymer engineering. * You have high level of hands-on mechanical aptitude and can effectively troubleshoot and repair equipment.

Adecco

Polymer Development Chemist

Sunnyvale, CA

$40/hr

Collaborate with manufacturing, engineering, quality, and R&D teams to successfully transfer new ... Serve as the polymer chemistry subject matter expert for manufacturing teams. Required ...

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All JobsPolymer Engineering JobsPolymer Engineering Jobs in California

Polymer Engineering information

See California salary details

$49.8K

$88.2K

$153K

How much do polymer engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer engineering in California is $88,160.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,100.00 and $113,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by polymer engineers in product development projects?

Polymer engineers often encounter challenges such as selecting the right polymer material to meet specific performance and cost requirements, ensuring material compatibility, and addressing issues like degradation or unwanted reactions during processing. Coordinating with multidisciplinary teams—including design, manufacturing, and quality assurance—can also present hurdles, as each group may have different priorities or technical constraints. Staying current with the latest advancements in sustainable and high-performance polymers is essential, as regulations and market demands frequently evolve.

What is polymer engineering?

Polymer engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on the design, analysis, and modification of polymer materials, which are long-chain molecules used to create plastics, rubbers, and other synthetic materials. Polymer engineers work with these materials to develop new products, improve manufacturing processes, and solve problems related to material properties and performance. Their work is crucial in industries such as automotive, aerospace, packaging, electronics, and healthcare, where polymer-based materials are widely used.

What is the difference between Polymer Engineering vs Materials Science?

AspectPolymer EngineeringMaterials Science
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Polymer Engineering or Chemical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science or Engineering
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, R&D labs, product developmentResearch labs, manufacturing, academia
Industry UsagePlastic, rubber, polymer product industriesBroad industries including metals, ceramics, polymers
Common Search/ComparisonPolymer Engineering careers, Polymer Engineer rolesMaterials Science careers, Materials Engineer roles

Polymer Engineering focuses specifically on the design, development, and manufacturing of polymer-based materials, often within plastics and rubber industries. Materials Science covers a broader range of materials, including metals, ceramics, and polymers, emphasizing fundamental properties and applications. While both fields share similar credentials and work environments, Polymer Engineering is more specialized in polymer products, making it the more relevant comparison for those interested in polymer-specific careers.

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

To thrive as a Polymer Engineer, you need a solid background in polymer science, materials engineering, and chemistry, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with analytical instruments (such as FTIR, DSC, and rheometers), CAD software, and industry standards is often required, along with certifications like Six Sigma being advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills set outstanding professionals apart. These competencies are crucial for developing innovative polymer products, ensuring quality, and driving process improvements in manufacturing or research environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Polymer Engineering jobs in California? The most popular types of Polymer Engineering jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Polymer Engineering jobs in California? For Polymer Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Polymer Engineering jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Polymer Engineering jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Polymer Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most Polymer Engineering job openings:
Polymer Engineering jobs near you
Polymer Material Scientist (#10703BM)

Polymer Material Scientist (#10703BM)

Search Masters, Inc

Riverside, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Vision, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Company Description

·                     Been in business 50+ years  with a strong legacy of innovation and stability

·                     Significant room for professional growth and career advancement

Job Description

·                     Develop and optimize polymer formulations for both new and existing product lines

·                     Conduct lead testing, validation, and performance improvement initiatives

·                     Analyze experimental data and prepare comprehensive technical reports

·                     Maintain and update material specifications to ensure ongoing compliance

·                     Prepare annual technical reports documenting research findings and progress

·                     Directly supervise and manage two laboratory technicians

·                     Oversee small chemical batch-to-continuous processing operations

·                     Support on-site extruder operations and related manufacturing processes

Key Requirements 

·                     Masters Degree in Material Science, Chemical Engineering, or Polymer Engineering

·                     Minimum of 5 years of formulations experience within a polymer manufacturing environment

·                     Hands-on experience with rubber or plastic materials is required

Additional Information

·                     All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines

·                     All applications must be accompanied by a resume and contact information

·                     Please forward your resume to Brandon Miller reference job #10703BM

Company Description

Since 1973, Search Masters has been a leader in Northeast Ohio in Executive Search and professional placement. Specializing in the Engineering and Manufacturing Industries, Search Masters has carved a niche in placing industrial engineers, manufacturing engineers, manufacturing managers, plant managers, operations professionals, and other functional roles such as IT, Sales, Marketing, and Accounting. Search Master's knowledgeable and dedicated employment counselors, proprietary software solution, and proven system make this firm an excellent business partner for anyone in Northeast Ohio looking to add talent or take the next step in their career.