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Polymer Internships Jobs (NOW HIRING)

0781 Technician - Indirect

Kenansville, NC

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

Chemistry or Polymer Chemistry Experience * 0-2 years of relevant experience (internships or co-ops preferred), particularly in: * Textile dyeing or finishing * Polymer or synthetic fiber processing

Welder II

Orangeburg, SC · On-site

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

One-year experience in various forms of welding or a welding internship * Must be capable of ... As we continue to push the boundaries of polymer science, we're constantly in need of new ideas ...

Welder II

Orangeburg, SC · On-site

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

As we continue to push the boundaries of polymer science, we're constantly in need of new ideas ... One-year experience in various forms of welding or a welding internship * Must be capable of ...

Welder II

Orangeburg, SC · On-site

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

As we continue to push the boundaries of polymer science, we're constantly in need of new ideas ... One-year experience in various forms of welding or a welding internship * Must be capable of ...

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Polymer Internships information

See salary details

$50.5K

$89.3K

$155K

How much do polymer internships jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer internships in the United States is $89,329.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects can I expect to work on during a polymer internship?

As a polymer intern, you can expect to be involved in hands-on projects such as developing new polymer blends, testing material properties in the laboratory, assisting with process optimization, and analyzing data from experiments. Interns often work closely with experienced engineers and scientists, contributing to both research and product development teams. This experience provides valuable exposure to various stages of polymer production and testing, helping you build practical skills and industry knowledge.

What is the difference between Polymer Internships vs Polymer Technicians?

AspectPolymer InternshipsPolymer Technicians
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduates with relevant courseworkPost-secondary education or technical certifications in polymer science or engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, or corporate R&D departmentsManufacturing plants, quality control labs, or production lines
Employer & Industry UsageInternship programs in chemical, materials, or polymer companiesFull-time roles in polymer manufacturing and processing industries

Polymer Internships are entry-level opportunities for students or recent graduates to gain experience in polymer science, often in research or development settings. Polymer Technicians are more experienced roles involving hands-on work in manufacturing, quality control, or processing. While internships focus on learning and exposure, technicians perform operational tasks essential to production.

What are polymer internships?

Polymer internships are temporary positions for students or recent graduates to gain hands-on experience working with polymers—large molecules used in materials like plastics, rubbers, and fibers. These internships are typically offered by research institutions, manufacturing companies, or chemical firms. Interns may assist in laboratory research, product development, quality testing, or process optimization. The experience helps students apply classroom knowledge to real-world projects, build professional networks, and enhance their resumes for future careers in polymer science or engineering.

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

To thrive as a Polymer Intern, you typically need a background in chemistry, materials science, or chemical engineering, along with foundational knowledge of polymer properties and synthesis. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and analytical tools like FTIR, DSC, or GPC is often required. Strong attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective teamwork and communication skills set outstanding interns apart. These competencies are essential for contributing to research projects, maintaining safety, and efficiently supporting innovation in polymer development.
More about Polymer Internships jobs
What cities are hiring for Polymer Internships jobs? Cities with the most Polymer Internships job openings:
What states have the most Polymer Internships jobs? States with the most job openings for Polymer Internships jobs include:
Infographic showing various Polymer Internships job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 33% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,329 per year, or $42.9 per hour.
0781 Technician - Indirect

0781 Technician - Indirect

Lear Corporation

Kenansville, NC

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

Other

Posted 19 days ago


Lear Corporation rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

104th of 139 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Dye Laboratory Technician I

Position Summary

The Laboratory Technician I supports coloration, testing, and chemical development activities for automotive textile applications, with a specific focus on polyester-based woven and warp knit materials. This entry-level role assists in laboratory dyeing, finishing chemical evaluation, and analytical testing to ensure materials meet stringent automotive performance, durability, and color standards.


Key Responsibilities

Polyester Coloration & Dyeing

  • Assist in laboratory dyeing of polyester textiles using disperse dyes for both woven and warp knit structures.
  • Prepare dye baths, chemical auxiliaries, and recipes utilizing the latest technologies.
  • Conduct shade development and color matching using spectrophotometers and visual evaluation under controlled lighting.
  • Support optimization of dyeing parameters (temperature profiles, carriers, dispersing agents, pH control).
  • Maintain detailed records of dye formulations, process conditions, and outcomes.

Chemical Development & Finishing

  • Support development and evaluation of chemical finishes for automotive textiles, including:
    • UV resistance and lightfastness enhancers
    • Stain resistance and soil release treatments
    • Flame retardant chemistries
    • Antimicrobial and odor-control finishes
  • Assist in preparing and applying finishing formulations via laboratory methods.
  • Participate in screening new chemical systems for compatibility with polyester substrates.
  • Document and compare performance of various chemical treatments.

Analytical Testing & Validation

  • Perform standardized textile testing aligned with automotive requirements, including:
    • FT-IR
    • DSC
    • TLC
  • Conduct basic chemical testing such as pH, extractables, and finish add-on levels.
  • Ability to analyze results to understand meaning and assist in the development of next steps.
  • Record, analyze, and report test data with accuracy and consistency.

Data Management & Reporting

  • Document all laboratory work in electronic systems or laboratory notebooks.
  • Assist in compiling technical reports for internal teams and customers.
  • Support statistical analysis of test results and trend tracking.

Continuous Improvement & Collaboration

  • Assist in troubleshooting dyeing inconsistencies specific to polyester (e.g., migration, uneven dye uptake).
  • Support initiatives to improve reproducibility between lab and production environments.
  • Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, and quality teams on material and process improvements.
  • Stay informed on emerging technologies in polyester dyeing and automotive textile chemistry.

Qualifications

Education

  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in:
    • Textile Engineering or Textile Technology
    • Chemistry or Polymer Chemistry

Experience

  • 0-2 years of relevant experience (internships or co-ops preferred), particularly in:
    • Textile dyeing or finishing
    • Polymer or synthetic fiber processing
    • Laboratory testing environments

Technical Knowledge & Skills

  • Basic understanding of polyester fiber properties and disperse dye chemistry (preferred).
  • Familiarity with woven and warp knit fabric structures.
  • Exposure to textile finishing processes and chemical treatments is a plus.
  • Understanding of laboratory safety practices and chemical handling.
  • Ability to follow detailed technical procedures with precision.
  • Strong attention to detail in data collection and reporting.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Excel or similar data tools.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

  • Ability to work in a laboratory with heat-generating equipment and chemical exposure (with PPE).
  • Standing, lifting light materials, and handling wet textiles and chemicals.
  • Compliance with all personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.


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