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Polymer Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Polymer Scientist

Lebanon, OR ยท On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

This position is responsible for research, development, and optimization of microporous membranes ... Strong background in porous materials and polymer science Critical technical, professional, and ...

Sr Polymer Chemist

Fullerton, CA ยท On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Polymer Chemist will report to our Head of R&D and will be responsible for formulating and testing new bio-based polymers and additives for production, testing their characterization and analyzing ...

This position is responsible for research, development, and optimization of microporous membranes ... Strong background in porous materials and polymer science Critical technical, professional, and ...

Polymer Chemist - Space Solar

Hawthorne, CA ยท On-site

$125K - $200K/yr

... research applicable) * Demonstrated ability to connect polymer chemistry and processing to device-level reliability outcomes Preferred Qualifications: * PhD in a relevant discipline with a focus on ...

As a Polymer Film Research Expert , in the Photochromics Group at the Monroeville Business and Technology Center, you will contribute to research work at the intersection of polymer science, films ...

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Polymer Research information

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$33K

$69.7K

$183.5K

How much do polymer research jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer research in the United States is $69,680.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $65,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a polymer research?

A Polymer Research job involves studying the structure, properties, and applications of polymers to develop new materials or improve existing ones. Researchers in this field work in laboratories, testing and analyzing polymer behaviors under different conditions. They may focus on areas such as biopolymers, nanomaterials, or sustainable plastics for various industries, including healthcare, automotive, and packaging. The role often requires collaboration with engineers, chemists, and manufacturers to implement research findings into real-world applications.

What are the typical daily responsibilities in a polymer research role?

In a Polymer Research position, your daily tasks often involve designing and conducting experiments to develop or modify polymer materials, analyzing data using specialized laboratory equipment, and documenting your findings in detailed reports. You may also collaborate with cross-functional teams, such as product development, quality assurance, and manufacturing, to help translate research outcomes into commercial applications. Literature review and staying current with scientific advancements are also integral parts of the role. By blending hands-on lab work with data analysis and teamwork, polymer researchers play a critical role in driving innovation within the materials science industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the polymer research position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Polymer Research, a strong background in chemistry, materials science, or chemical engineering with at least a bachelor's or advanced degree is essential. Familiarity with analytical instruments such as spectroscopy, chromatography, and rheometers, along with proficiency in relevant software for material analysis, is typically required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective collaboration skills help researchers excel in both independent projects and team environments. These competencies are vital for accurately conducting experiments, interpreting results, and contributing innovative solutions in the development of new polymer materials.

Is polymer research a good career?

Polymer research is a specialized field within materials science focused on developing and improving polymer materials. It offers opportunities in industries such as healthcare, packaging, and automotive, often requiring knowledge of chemistry, laboratory skills, and sometimes advanced degrees. Career prospects depend on industry demand, education level, and technical expertise.
More about Polymer Research jobs

What states have the most Polymer Research jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Polymer Research job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,680 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

R&D Laboratory Technician - Formulation

El Segundo, CA โ€ข On-site

$24 - $37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Formulate, mix, cure, and characterize new material formulations in support of product lines.

  • Prepare samples for analytical testing and use equipment such as vacuum ovens to cure resin samples.

  • Follow laboratory procedures, record observations, manage multiple test methods, and maintain safety protocols.


Job description

R&D Laboratory Technician - Formulation
El Segundo, CA | Full-Time | On-Site
Must be a U.S. Persons due to the nature of our work.
Defense, aerospace, and other high-performance applications demand new material solutions stronger, lighter, more resilient, tested, and delivered faster than traditionally available. Cambium is disrupting advanced materials development, from AI-driven molecular design to agile domestic manufacturing. Whether enabling hypersonic flight or protecting critical systems, our solutions push the limits of what's possible. Cambium solves mission-critical problems in defense and industry. Our team of world-class scientists and engineers was purpose built to take on those challenges. Come join us and revolutionize advanced materials for defense, aerospace, and beyond.
THE ROLE
Cambium is seeking an R&D Laboratory Technician to join our high temperature composite resin team. You'll work alongside research scientists and engineers to formulate, mix, cure, and characterize new material formulations in support of Cambium's multiple product lines. This is a hands-on role and material-specific training will be provided
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Follow written and verbal instructions with excellent attention to detail to precisely carry out a wide range of laboratory tasks.
- Record laboratory methods clearly and reproducibly; learn to make and communicate relevant observations as you work.
- Manage multiple test methods and sample sets in parallel without losing traceability.
- Carefully weigh and mix ingredients to prepare resin formulations.
- Prepare samples for analytical testing.
- Use a vacuum oven to cure resin samples for testing.
- Wash chemistry glassware and clean the laboratory space.
- Follow all safety protocols and contribute to our culture of safety.
- Participate in a wide range of R&D problem-solving activities with an open mind and desire to learn.
- Track time-sensitive process steps and record relevant observations.
KEY REQUIREMENTS
- Education: High school diploma with 3+ years of relevant lab experience.
- 3+ years of experience in an R&D materials or chemistry laboratory.
- Hands-on experience with common laboratory procedures: weighing chemicals, using hot/stir plates, vacuum pumps, and ovens.
- Innate curiosity and a strong desire to learn.
- Detail-oriented and patient working style with strong written documentation skills.
- Ability to complete complex tasks independently and on time, and to keep track of multiple test methods in parallel.
- US citizenship required due to the nature of the work.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience mixing and handling thermosetting resins and polymer composites.
- Experience producing polymer foams (e.g., polyurethane, phenolic, polyimide, epoxy, or other thermoset foams).
- Experience with resin, composite, or foam testing.
- Experience in a polymer R&D laboratory.
- Experience with any or all of the following analytical equipment - DMA, DSC, TGA, SEM, NMR, FTIR, HPLC, rheometer, thermal conductivity testing.
- Comfort working with high-temperature cure schedules and reactive resin systems
BENEFITS
Cambium offers a highly competitive compensation and benefits plan. This includes excellent medical/dental/vision benefits, and a matching 401(k) plan, professional development reimbursement, and an opportunity for equity for most full time positions.
As a condition of employment, the candidate may need to successfully complete a medical evaluation and obtain clearance to wear respiratory personal protective equipment (PPE) as required by OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134