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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 · 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 ...

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 ...

Apple

Coating Materials Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$147K - $272K/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, Inc.

Sr Medical Device Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $152K/yr

You bring expertise in polymer science or polymer engineering, enabling innovative material solutions. * You have practical experience with polyurethane-based coatings and water-based dispersions.

Dexcom

Sr Chemical Process Engineer

San Diego, CA

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.

Google

Silicon Product Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Electronic Material Science, Polymer Engineering, Electrical engineering, Computer Aided Design, Semiconductor Physics, Manufacturing Statistical Process Control or a related ...

Lyten, Inc.

Polymer Composites Intern

San Jose, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

S. and Europe and expanding our team of engineers, scientists, and innovators. Apply now to join ... Polymer Composites Intern This Polymer Composites Intern will support active filament development ...

Lyten, Inc.

Polymer Composites Intern

San Jose, CA

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

S. and Europe and expanding our team of engineers, scientists, and innovators. Apply now to join ... Polymer Composites Intern This Polymer Composites Intern will support active filament development ...

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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 Jun 16, 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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-level engineering positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and a strong track record of project management and technical expertise.

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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-demand industries or leadership roles.

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 does a polymer engineer do?

A polymer engineer designs, develops, and tests polymer materials and products, focusing on improving their properties and performance. They work with raw materials, use computer-aided design (CAD) tools, and often collaborate with manufacturing teams to optimize production processes and ensure quality standards.

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.

Are polymer engineers in demand?

Polymer engineers are in demand due to the ongoing need for advanced materials in industries such as automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and packaging. They often require knowledge of polymer chemistry, materials testing, and manufacturing processes, with employment prospects generally stable and growing as new polymer applications emerge.
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
Infographic showing various Polymer Engineering job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 20% Temporary, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,160 per year, or $42.4 per hour.
Polymer Material Scientist (#10703BM)

Polymer Material Scientist (#10703BM)

Search Masters, Inc

Riverside, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Vision, Retirement

Posted 13 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.