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Polymer Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Toyota

Senior Scientist R&D

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$96K - $122K/yr

Mentor and support junior scientists and lab assistants in the planning and execution of polymer research. What you bring * Must possess a Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering ...

Hexcel Corporation

R&D Polymer Chemist

Amesbury, MA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

We're currently seeking an R&D Polymer Chemist to join our Amesbury, MA team and help develop next ... * Assist in transition to production, including specifying or modifying equipment and developing ...

Hexcel Corporation

R&D Polymer Chemist

Amesbury, MA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

We're currently seeking an R&D Polymer Chemist to join our Amesbury, MA team and help develop next ... * Assist in transition to production, including specifying or modifying equipment and developing ...

Purosil LLC

Polymer Materials Scientist

Corona, CA · On-site

Research and develop new polymer formulations for new product market launches working directly with ... Prepare product reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing information and trends. * Assist ...

The Pennsylvania State University

$15/hr

... research assistant to work alongside senior researchers in Dr. Qiming Zhang's group on the ... Assisting in the processing and fabrication of electroactive polymer films and related composite ...

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How much do polymer research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for polymer research assistant in the United States is $19.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a polymer research assistant do?

A Polymer Research Assistant supports scientists and engineers in studying and developing new polymer materials. Their duties often include preparing samples, conducting laboratory experiments, analyzing data, and maintaining lab equipment. They may also assist in documenting experimental results and ensuring that safety protocols are followed. This role is vital in advancing the understanding and application of polymers in various industries such as plastics, textiles, and biomedical devices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a polymer research assistant?

To thrive as a Polymer Research Assistant, you need a solid background in chemistry or materials science, laboratory experience, and at least a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with analytical instruments such as FTIR, DSC, GPC, and proficiency in lab safety protocols are typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring accurate experimental results, maintaining safety standards, and contributing to successful research outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by polymer research assistants in laboratory settings?

Polymer Research Assistants often encounter challenges related to maintaining consistency in experimental procedures and handling the sensitive nature of polymer materials. Working with polymers can require precise temperature control, contamination prevention, and strict adherence to safety protocols due to the chemicals involved. Additionally, assistants must adapt to rapidly evolving research priorities and collaborate closely with scientists, engineers, and other team members to troubleshoot unexpected results and optimize experimental designs.

What cities are hiring for Polymer Research Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Polymer Research Assistant job openings:

What states have the most Polymer Research Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Polymer Research Assistant jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Polymer Research Assistant jobs?

For Polymer Research Assistant jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Polymer Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,200 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Senior Scientist R&D

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Automobile Dealers • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.external

$96K - $122K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Toyota rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 879 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview
Who we are
Collaborative. Respectful. A place to dream and do. These are just a few words that describe what life is like at Toyota. As one of the world's most admired brands, Toyota is growing and leading the future of mobility through innovative, high-quality solutions designed to enhance lives and delight those we serve. We're looking for talented team members who want to Dream. Do. Grow. with us.
Toyota does not offer support or sponsorship of job applicants for employment-based visas or any other work authorization for this role now or in the future. You must have the right to work in the United States and not require Toyota support or sponsorship for immigration-related employment (e.g., H-1B, O-1, E-3, H-1B1, TN, F-1 OPT, F-1 STEM OPT, F-1 CPT, 'job flexibility benefits' [also known as I-140 or Adjustment of Status portability], etc.) now or in the future. You should not apply for this role if you will require Toyota to assist with immigration support or sponsorship now or in the future.
Who we're looking for
Toyota Research Institute of North America, located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is seeking a Senior Scientist to lead the in-house research on hydrocarbon polymer materials.
This role will join a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers to develop advanced hydrocarbon membrane and ionomer materials for fuel cell and water electrolysis applications.
The successful candidate will lead original research in the design, synthesis and characterization of polymer materials, while actively collaborating with academic and industry partners to accelerate in-house research efforts.
Candidates should be comfortable working in a collaborative environment with diverse scientific and engineering teams.
This role requires deep expertise in polymer synthesis and characterization to drive the development of hydrocarbon polymers. Responsibilities include synthesizing advanced hydrocarbon polymer materials and supporting their integration into electrochemical devices.
A key focus of this work will be addressing the critical performance and durability challenges associated with hydrocarbon polymers for fuel cell and water electrolysis applications.
This position offers a unique opportunity to advance polymer research from early laboratory concepts to practical applications.
What you'll be doing:
  • Lead the design, synthesis, and characterization of hydrocarbon polymer materials for membrane and ionomer applications in fuel cell and water electrolyzers.
  • Develop synthesis strategies to explore different types of hydrocarbon polymer chemistries and performance polymer characterizations using techniques such as GPC, NMR, IEC, DMA, and other relevant analytical methods.
  • Collaborate with electrochemical device experts to design and modify polymer structures and support material integration into fuel cell and water electrolysis devices.
  • Work with external partners to support polymer scale-up from laboratory synthesis to larger-scale batches.
  • Address emerging technical challenges in the field of polymer materials research.
  • Prepare high-impact publications, patent applications, and technical reports; deliver regular updates to the team and management; and present findings at conferences.
  • Contribute to defining technical roadmaps and project strategies in alignment with organizational goals.
  • Mentor and support junior scientists and lab assistants in the planning and execution of polymer research.

What you bring
  • Must possess a Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a closely related scientific discipline, with demonstrated expertise in polymer chemistry and materials development.
  • Minimum of 3+ years of experience and hands-on in monomer and polymer design, synthesis, modification, and characterization.
  • Experience developing and synthesizing advanced polymeric materials using a variety of polymerization and functionalization approaches is strongly preferred, including techniques such as Diels-Alder, condensation, ROMP, superacid polymerization, and sulfonation.
  • Experience with ion-exchange polymers for fuel cell and water electrolysis applications.

What you may bring
  • Experience in scaling polymer synthesis from laboratory scale to large-scale batch production.
  • Ability to excel in a fast-paced research environment, prioritize effectively, manage multiple tasks, and adapt to changing requirements.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Highly self-motivated, with intellectual curiosity, initiative, and a drive to overcome technical challenges.

What we'll bring
During your interview process, our team will provide you with all the details of our industry-leading benefits and career development opportunities. A few highlights include:
  • A work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect
  • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career, as well as tuition reimbursement
  • Team Member Vehicle Purchase Discount
  • Toyota Team Member Lease Vehicle Program (if applicable)
  • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans for your entire family
  • Toyota 401(k) Savings Plan featuring a company match, as well as an annual retirement contribution from Toyota regardless of whether you contribute (if applicable)
  • Paid holidays and paid time off
  • Referral services related to prenatal services, adoption, childcare, schools and more
  • Tax Advantaged Accounts (Health Savings Account, Health Care FSA, Dependent Care FSA)
  • Relocation (if applicable)

Belonging at Toyota
Our success begins and ends with our people. We embrace all perspectives and value unique human experiences. Respect for all is our North Star.
Applicants for our positions are considered without regard to race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, religion, military or veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.
Have a question, need assistance with your application or do you require any special accommodations? Please send an email to talent.acquisition@toyota.com.

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