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Polymer Science Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

A Bachelor's degree in chemistry, environmental science or equivalent experience. * Understanding ... The Republic Services Polymer Center is the nation's first integrated plastics recycling facility.

A Bachelor's degree in chemistry, environmental science or equivalent experience. * Understanding ... The Republic Services Polymer Center is the nation's first integrated plastics recycling facility.

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Polymer Science information

See Indiana salary details

$55.7K

$83.6K

$117.5K

How much do polymer science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer science in Indiana is $83,588.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,800.00 and $95,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Polymer Science job?

A Polymer Science job involves researching, developing, and testing polymers—large molecules used in plastics, coatings, adhesives, and other materials. Professionals in this field work in industries like aerospace, healthcare, and manufacturing to improve product performance and sustainability. They may focus on polymer synthesis, processing, or applications, often collaborating with engineers and chemists.

What are some typical responsibilities for someone working in Polymer Science?

Professionals in Polymer Science often spend their days designing and conducting experiments to synthesize and characterize new polymer materials, analyzing data, and documenting results. You may also collaborate closely with cross-functional teams such as product development, engineering, and quality assurance to ensure that materials meet performance and safety standards. Regular tasks can include troubleshooting manufacturing processes, staying up-to-date with scientific literature, and presenting findings to stakeholders. This role offers a dynamic work environment, balancing independent research with teamwork, and often provides significant opportunities for professional growth and specialization.

How much does a polymer scientist make?

The average salary for a polymer scientist typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Professionals in this field often work in research and development, utilizing skills in chemistry, materials science, and laboratory techniques.

Is polymer science a good career?

Polymer science is a viable career that involves researching and developing new polymer materials used in industries such as healthcare, packaging, and automotive. It typically requires a strong background in chemistry or materials science, with skills in laboratory work and data analysis. Job prospects depend on industry demand and geographic location, with opportunities in research institutions and manufacturing companies.

What does a polymer scientist do?

A polymer scientist researches and develops polymers and related materials, focusing on their chemical properties, synthesis, and applications. They often work in laboratories, using techniques like spectroscopy and microscopy, and may collaborate with industries such as plastics, textiles, or biomedical fields to create new materials or improve existing ones.

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

To excel in Polymer Science, you need a solid background in chemistry, materials science, or chemical engineering, often supported by a relevant degree or advanced studies. Familiarity with polymer characterization tools (such as FTIR, DSC, and GPC), laboratory protocols, and data analysis software is crucial for experimental and analytical work. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, effective communication, and teamwork are valuable soft skills in this field. These abilities are important to ensure successful research, development, and collaboration in creating and improving polymer materials for a variety of industries.

What jobs can you get with a polymer chemistry degree?

A polymer science degree prepares individuals for roles such as polymer chemist, materials scientist, or research scientist in industries like plastics, rubber, and textiles. These jobs often involve developing new materials, quality testing, and using analytical tools like spectroscopy and chromatography, with some positions requiring laboratory skills and safety certifications.
What are the most commonly searched types of Polymer Science jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Polymer Science jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Polymer Science jobs in Indiana? For Polymer Science jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Polymer Science jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Polymer Science jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Polymer Science jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Polymer Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Polymer Science job openings in Indiana as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $83,588 per year, or $40.2 per hour.
Field Chemist I

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Republic Services rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 557 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 72 rated recycling and waste


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY: The Environmental Field Chemist I role works both indoors and outdoors at various customer sites as an emerging partner to the team to ensure safety standards, package the materials based on required regulations and maintain updated documentation. Responsible for assisting with hazardous, non-hazardous and universal waste removal services.

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Responsible for collecting, characterizing & packaging customer waste for final disposal.

  • Assists in safely transporting customer waste in accordance with all Federal regulations.

  • Assists with customer paperwork including but not limited to: Packing Lists, Waste Labels & Shipping Documents.

  • Participates in onsite support at customer locations such as inspections, waste collection, chemical dispensing, inventory management, housekeeping & outbound waste shipments.

  • Collaborates with team to identify suspected contents via internal sampling procedures & categorization tests, i.e., "Field Screens".

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • A Bachelor's degree in chemistry, environmental science or equivalent experience.

  • Understanding of Federal and State Environmental and Transportation regulations. DOT and RCRA experience preferred.

  • Ability to perform proper waste sampling; create accurate waste characterizations and profiles; address difficult situations in a constructive manner; utilize computer technology for communication, data gathering and reporting; problem solve.

  • Applies basic communication skills to read, analyze, and interpret general business documentation, technical procedures, governmental regulations, and to respond effectively to inquiries.

  • Demonstrates a positive attitude and professionalism when interacting with customers and team members.

  • Willingness to travel to customer locations.

  • Currently hold a 40-hour HAZWOPER (with 8-hour refresher) or ability to pass course upon hire.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Basic knowledge of chemistry principles and practices.

  • Must have a valid drivers license and maintain an MVR that meets Company policy standards.

  • Ability to pass Respirator fit test certification.

  • Ability to regularly lift or move object weighting 40lbs or more.

Rewarding Compensation and Benefits

Eligible employees can elect to participate in:
Comprehensive medical benefits coverage, dental plans and vision coverage.
Health care and dependent care spending accounts.
Short- and long-term disability.
Life insurance and accidental death & dismemberment insurance.
Employee and Family Assistance Program (EAP).
Employee discount programs.
Retirement plan with a generous company match.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP).

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Benefits: https://jobs.republicservices.com/us/en/about-us/benefits

The statements used herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by an employee in this position, and are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required by an incumbent so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the Company.

EEO STATEMENT:Republic Services is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, relationship or association with a protected veteran (spouses or other family members), genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE: RSG) is a leader in the environmental services industry. We provide customers with the most complete set of products and services, including recycling, waste, special waste, hazardous waste and field services.Our industry-leading commitments to advance circularity and support decarbonization are helping deliver on our vision to partner with customers to create a more sustainable world.

In 2023, Republic's total company revenue was $14.9 billion, and adjusted EBITDA was $4.4 billion. We serve 13 million customers and operate more than 1,000 locations, including collection and transfer stations, recycling and polymer centers, treatment facilities, and landfills.

Although we operate across North America, the collection, recycling, treatment, or disposal of materials is a local business, and the dynamics and opportunities differ in each market we serve. By combining local operational management with standardized business practices, we drive greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational decisions at the local level, closest to the customer.

Our customers, including small businesses, major corporations and municipalities, want a partner with the expertise and capabilities to effectively manage their multiple recycling and waste streams. They choose Republic Services because we are committed to exceeding their expectations and helping them achieve their sustainability goals. Our 41,000 team members understand that it's not just what we do that matters, but how we do it.

Our company values guide our daily actions:

  • Safe: We protect the livelihoods of our colleagues and communities.

  • Committed to Serve: We go above and beyond to exceed our customers' expectations.

  • Environmentally Responsible:We take action to improve our environment.

  • Driven: We deliver results in the right way.

  • Human-Centered:We respect the dignity and unique potential of every person.

We are proud of our high employee engagement score of 86. We have an inclusive and diverse culture where every voice counts. In addition, our team positively impacted 4.6 million people in 2023 through the Republic Services Charitable Foundation and local community grants. These projects are designed to meet the specific needs of the communities we serve, with a focus on building sustainable neighborhoods.

STRATEGY

Republic Services' strategy is designed to generate profitable growth. Through acquisitions and industry advancements, we safely and sustainably manage our customers' multiple waste streams through a North American footprint of vertically integrated assets.

We focus on three areas of growth to meet the increasing needs of our customers: recycling and waste, environmental solutions and sustainability innovation.

With our integrated approach, strengthening our position in one area advances other areas of our business. For example, as we grow volume in recycling and waste, we collect additional material to bolster our circularity capabilities. And as we expand environmental solutions, we drive additional opportunities to provide these services to our existing recycling and waste customers.

Recycling and Waste

We continue to expand our recycling and waste business footprint throughout North America through organic growth and targeted acquisitions. The 13 million customers we serve and our more than 5 million pick-ups per day provide us with a distinct advantage. We aggregate materials at scale, unlocking new opportunities for advanced recycling. In addition, we are cross-selling new products and services to better meet our customers' specific needs.

Environmental Solutions

Our comprehensive environmental solutions capabilities help customers safely manage their most technical waste streams. We are expanding both our capabilities and our geographic footprint. We see strong growth opportunities for our offerings, including PFAS remediation, an increasing customer need.


SUSTAINABILITY INNOVATION

Republic's recent innovations to advance circularity and decarbonization demonstrate our unique ability to leverage sustainability as a platform for growth.

The Republic Services Polymer Center is the nation's first integrated plastics recycling facility. This innovative site processes rigid plastics from our recycling centers, producing recycled materials that promote true bottle-to-bottle circularity. We also formed Blue Polymers, a joint venture with Ravago, to develop facilities that will further process plastic material from our Polymer Centers to help meet the growing demand for sustainable packaging. We are building a network of Polymer Centers and Blue Polymer facilities across North America.

We continue to advance decarbonization at our landfills. As demand for renewable energy continues to grow, we have 70 landfill gas-to-energy projects in operation and plan to expand our portfolio to 115 projects by 2028.

RECENT RECOGNITION

  • Barron's 100 Most Sustainable Companies

  • CDP Discloser

  • Dow Jones Sustainability Indices

  • Ethisphere's World's Most Ethical Companies

  • Fortune World's Most Admired Companies

  • Great Place to Work

  • Sustainability Yearbook S&P Global


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