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Polymer Process Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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

Process Integration Engineer

Santa Clara, CA ยท On-site

$185K - $254K/yr

... polymer dielectrics and deposited thin film dielectrics. * Represent Integration Module Solutions ... Define engineering plans, design DOEs, help characterize and create engineering reports for ...

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Polymer Lab Technician

El Segundo, CA ยท On-site

$27 - $40/hr

... engineers to support R&D experiments, troubleshooting, and process optimization. * Maintain ... Experience with polymer characterization techniques, including DSC, TGA, FTIR, rheology, and ...

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Showing results 41-60

Polymer Process Engineer information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$90.8K

$140.6K

How much do polymer process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer process engineer in California is $90,813.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $101,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Polymer Process Engineer, you need a strong background in chemical engineering or materials science, with experience in polymer processing and manufacturing principles. Familiarity with process simulation software, extrusion/injection molding equipment, and relevant industry standards or certifications (such as Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing) is highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and optimizing production processes. These skills ensure efficient, high-quality polymer product development while maintaining safety, cost-effectiveness, and innovation in manufacturing environments.

What is the difference between Polymer Process Engineer vs Chemical Process Engineer?

AspectPolymer Process EngineerChemical Process Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Chemical Engineering or Polymer ScienceBachelor's in Chemical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentPlastic and polymer manufacturing facilitiesChemical plants, refineries, or manufacturing plants
Industry UsagePlastic, rubber, and polymer industriesChemical manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, energy
Common Search/ComparisonPolymer Process Engineer vs Chemical Process Engineer

Polymer Process Engineers focus on developing and optimizing manufacturing processes for plastics and polymers, often working in specialized facilities. Chemical Process Engineers have a broader scope, working across various chemical industries to design and improve chemical production processes. While both roles require chemical engineering knowledge, Polymer Process Engineers specialize in polymer-specific processes and materials.

What are some common challenges faced by Polymer Process Engineers when scaling up a process from the lab to full production?

Polymer Process Engineers often encounter challenges when transitioning a process from laboratory scale to full-scale manufacturing. These can include maintaining product consistency, optimizing process parameters, and managing equipment limitations that may not exist at smaller scales. Troubleshooting issues such as material flow, temperature control, and reaction kinetics is essential to ensure quality and efficiency. Effective collaboration with R&D, quality assurance, and production teams is crucial for addressing these challenges and implementing successful scale-up strategies.

What does a Polymer Process Engineer do?

A Polymer Process Engineer specializes in developing, optimizing, and troubleshooting manufacturing processes involving polymers and plastics. They work to improve the efficiency, quality, and safety of polymer production, which can include tasks like designing equipment, testing materials, and implementing new technologies. These engineers often collaborate with research, production, and quality assurance teams to ensure that polymer products meet required specifications. Their expertise is crucial in industries such as automotive, packaging, medical devices, and consumer goods.
What job categories do people searching Polymer Process Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Polymer Process Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Polymer Process Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Polymer Process Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Polymer Process Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,813 per year, or $43.7 per hour.
Materials and Process Engineer 3

Materials and Process Engineer 3

Chipton Ross

Woodland Hills, CA โ€ข On-site

$106.01/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Job Description
Job #218918
Chipton-Ross is seeking a Materials and Process Engineer 3 for a contract opportunity in Woodland Hills, CA.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS (REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE)
This requisition may be filled at either a Principal Level or a Sr. Principal Level.
Principal Material and Process Engineer:
  • 5 years of Engineering experience with a Bachelor's of Science in a STEM discipline preferrable in Materials Science and Engineering; 3 years of Material Science and Engineering experience with Masters; 1 Year with a PhD
  • Engineering experience in aerospace, defense, or high-reliability manufacturing environments
  • Practical knowledge of metallurgy for ferrous and nonferrous alloys, heat treatment basics, corrosion/fatigue fundamentals, and common materials testing methods
  • Hands-on exposure to metallographic sample preparation and basic lab techniques (cutting, polishing, etching, hardness)
  • 2+ years of manufacturing processes (machining, forging, forming, fastening, welding/brazing, plating/coating) and ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications related to metallic materials and processing
  • Active DoD Secret Clearance
  • Ability to work full-time onsite in Woodland Hills

Sr. Principal Material and Process Engineer:
  • 8 years of Engineering experience with a Bachelor's of Science in a STEM discipline preferrable in Materials Science and Engineering; 6 years of Material Science and Engineering experience with Masters; 4 Years with a PhD
  • Engineering experience in aerospace, defense, or high-reliability manufacturing environments
  • Practical knowledge of metallurgy for ferrous and nonferrous alloys, heat treatment basics, corrosion/fatigue fundamentals, and common materials testing methods
  • Hands-on exposure to metallographic sample preparation and basic lab techniques (cutting, polishing, etching, hardness)
  • 2+ years of manufacturing processes (machining, forging, forming, fastening, welding/brazing, plating/coating) and ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications related to metallic materials and processing
  • Active DoD Secret Clearance
  • Ability to work full-time onsite in Woodland Hills

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
  • As an M&P Engineer, you will support definition of engineering requirements to develop, select, or recommend parts, materials, processes, manufacturing technologies, machinery, tools, and automation systems used in product design and manufacturing in accordance with contractual and regulatory obligations
  • Additionally, you will qualify new materials, parts and processes to meet requirements and manage test and audit programs to qualify suppliers to applicable requirements
  • Support engineering design reviews and participate in failure analyses for metallic parts and processes
  • Assist in supplier qualification activities and respond to routine supplier technical inquiries; escalate complex supplier or production issues to senior M&P engineers
  • Perform analyses to characterize performance or determine causes of tool, material, part, or process failures; recommend corrective actions for senior review
  • Coordinate and support lab activities (metallography, hardness, tensile, NDT/NDI) and compile test data for interpretation and disposition
  • Use project management practices to meet cost, technical, and schedule requirements for assigned tasks while incorporating EHS, LEAN, and Quality principles into materials/process work, lab activities, and procedures
  • Support creation and revision of material/process specifications, work instructions, and test plans; ensure alignment with industry requirements
  • Support investigations of non-conformances and supplier deviations; collect evidence, perform basic root-cause analysis, and draft corrective action recommendations
  • Maintain engineering records (test reports, engineering orders) and support configuration control and design reviews as required
  • Communicate technical findings clearly to cross-functional teams and stakeholders
  • Frequent interaction with manufacturing floors, supplier facilities, and testing laboratories
  • Occasional travel to supplier sites, test facilities, and other locations may be required
  • Must comply with security, health, and safety policies

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS (DESIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE)
  • Master's degree in materials science and engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, metallurgical engineering, or polymer engineering
  • PhD in material science or materials engineering
  • Strong desire to mentor and grow employees
  • Expert level first principle engineering knowledge of metals and materials
  • Knowledge of physical and mechanical properties as well as evaluation methods (tensile strength, hardness, fatigue, fracture toughness, creep, stress rupture, SEM, non-destructive inspection, spectroscopy)
  • Detailed knowledge of one or more of the following production processes: forging, casting, forming, coating, plating, heat treating, fusion welding, friction stir welding, EB welding, additive manufacturing, and composite manufacturing
  • Hands-on experience in a high-production manufacturing environment
  • Experience with technical review of materials processing and a sound understanding of the interaction between process variables and the resulting material performance
  • Demonstrated track record of success in a rapidly growing, fast-paced, and highly competitive environment
  • Personality and drive to execute in a scrappy entrepreneurial environment that operates under tight timelines and aggressive schedules
  • Effective written and interpersonal communication skills
  • Capable of interacting with and conveying concepts within all levels of our organization
  • Strong academic foundation coupled with hands on experience

REQUIRED EDUCATION
Bachelor's Degree is required.
School must be accredited.
WORK HOURS
Full-Time 9/80 work week. 1st shift.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
  • Applicants responding to this position will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements by currently possessing the ability to view classified government information.
  • Employment will be contingent on clearing a drug screen and background check. Both must clear prior to start date.
  • Candidates responding to this posting must currently possess the eligibility to work in the United States. No third parties please.

For more information, please apply or contact:
Rochelle Anderson 800.927.9318 x280
randerson@chiptonross.com
Chipton-Ross provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by Federal, State or local law. This policy governs all areas of employment at Chipton-Ross, including recruiting, hiring, training, assignment, promotions, compensation, benefits, discipline, and terminations.

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About Chipton-Ross

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Chipton-Ross, based in El Segundo, California, is a leading provider of staffing and recruitment services in the US. The company is renowned for its specialization in fields like engineering, information technology, aircraft manufacturing, and other technical industries. Founded in 1983, Chipton-Ross has grown to become a recognized name in the national recruitment arena with a reputation for integrity, quality, and excellence in management. The company's mission is to provide cost-effective staffing solutions that allow their clients to maximize the power of their people, enhancing both perspective and productivity.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

El Segundo, CA, US

Year founded

1983