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Polymer Science Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

PIP Global

Senior Polymer Chemist

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

This role will also play a critical role in bridging material science, process engineering, and ... D. in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, or related field, with deep experience in elastomer ...

PPG

Research Chemist, Polymer Film

Monroeville, PA

Qualifications · PhD in polymer chemistry, materials science, or other related field with 0+ years of experience or equivalent post-doctoral work · Effective collaborator within multi-functional ...

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$58.6K

$88.1K

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How much do polymer science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer science in Pennsylvania is $88,053.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,700.00 and $100,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is polymer science?

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 the typical responsibilities 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed in polymer science?

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.

Is polymer science a good career?

Polymer science is a viable career that involves researching and developing new polymer materials for 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 individual qualifications, with opportunities for advancement in research, development, and manufacturing roles.

What does a polymer scientist do?

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

What jobs can you get with a polymer science degree?

A polymer science degree can lead to careers such as polymer chemist, materials scientist, process engineer, quality control analyst, or research scientist in industries like plastics, rubber, textiles, and biomedical materials. These roles often require knowledge of polymer properties, laboratory skills, and familiarity with manufacturing processes and testing methods.

What are the most commonly searched types of Polymer Science jobs in Pennsylvania?

The most popular types of Polymer Science jobs in Pennsylvania are:

What are popular job titles related to Polymer Science jobs in Pennsylvania?

For Polymer Science jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Polymer Science jobs in Pennsylvania look for?

The top searched job categories for Polymer Science jobs in Pennsylvania are:

Polymer Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Polymer Science job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,053 per year, or $42.3 per hour.

Senior Scientist - Polymer Mechanics-Corning, New York

Elkland, PA

Corning

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 129 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 545 rated manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about Corningexternal

$77K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Requisition Number: 76698
The company built on breakthroughs.
Join us.
Corning is one of the world's leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries of what's possible.
How do we do this? With our people. They break through limitations and expectations - not once in a career, but every day. They help move our company, and the world, forward.
At Corning, there are endless possibilities for making an impact. You can help connect the unconnected, drive the future of automobiles, transform at-home entertainment, and ensure the delivery of lifesaving medicines. And so much more.
Come break through with us.
Corning's businesses are ever-evolving to best serve our customers, industries, and consumers. Today, we accelerate and transform life sciences, mobile consumer electronics, optical communications, display, automotive, and solar markets. We are changing the world with:
  • Trusted products that accelerate drug discovery, development, and delivery to save lives
  • Damage-resistant cover glass to enhance the devices that keep us connected
  • Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light
  • Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences
  • Auto glass and ceramics to drive cleaner, safer, and smarter transportation
  • Solar polysilicon, wafers, and innovative photovoltaic modules, enabling low-cost solar energy solutions

Role Purpose
Corning is seeking a Scientist to support the reliability assessment and performance evaluation of polymeric materials used in advanced applications. This role will focus on polymer thermomechanical characterization, mechanical testing, and failure mode analysis to generate fundamental insights into material behavior and drive improvements in product and material performance. The position will also involve implementing finite element analysis (FEA) and data-driven models.
The successful candidate will combine hands-on laboratory experimentation with rigorous technical analysis to investigate degradation and failure mechanisms, quantify reliability risks, and develop novel characterization approaches. This role requires strong scientific judgment, technical independence, and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design and execute experimental studies to evaluate polymer behavior under relevant application conditions, including load, temperature, time, and environmental exposure.
  • Conduct rheological, thermomechanical, and mechanical characterization of polymeric materials.
  • Perform failure mode and degradation analysis to identify mechanisms affecting reliability and long-term performance.
  • Develop, refine, and implement new or modified test methods to address technical gaps and improve characterization capability.
  • Analyze and interpret experimental results to establish structure-property-performance relationships and identify reliability risks.
  • Identify, evaluate, and recommend opportunities to improve material, product, or process performance based on scientific findings.
  • Cross validates experimental results with Finite Element Analysis.
  • Document and communicate technical results, conclusions, and recommendations through reports, presentations, and project updates.
  • Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and cross-functional teams to support research and development objectives.

Experiences/Education - Required
  • PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • Demonstrated research experience in polymer characterization, materials behavior, or reliability assessment.
  • Strong knowledge of polymer behavior under different application conditions, including mechanical, thermal, and environmental effects.
  • Experience with polymer characterization techniques, including rheological, thermomechanical, nanoindentation, and mechanical testing.
  • Experience with failure analysis, degradation studies, or materials reliability assessment.
  • Strong experimental design, data analysis, and scientific problem-solving skills.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Experiences/Education - Desired
  • Experience in Finite Element Analysis and data driven modeling
  • Experience developing or adapting laboratory test methods to address new technical challenges as well as familiarity with theoretical mechanics.
  • Familiarity with reliability assessment of polymeric materials in product or application-focused environments.
  • Experience translating characterization results into recommendations for product, material, or process improvement.
  • Record of technical publications, presentations, patents, or other research contributions.

This position supports immigration sponsorship.
The range for this position is $77,927.00 - $107,150.00 assuming full time status. Starting pay for the successful applicant is dependent on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education.
A job that shapes a life.
Corning offers you the total package.
Your well-being is our priority. Our compensation and benefits package supports your health and wellness, financial aspirations, and career from day one.
  • Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win.
  • As part of our commitment to your financial well-being, we provide a 100% company-paid pension benefit with fixed contributions that grow throughout your career. Combined with matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan, Corning's total contributions to your retirement accounts can reach between 7% and 12% of your pay, depending on your age and years of service.
  • Our health and well-being benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company-paid life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your family.
  • Getting paid for our work is important, but feeling appreciated and recognized for those contributions motivates us much more. That's why Corning offers a recognition program to celebrate successes and reward colleagues who make exceptional contributions.

We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status.
Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and considers requests for reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other benefits and privileges of employment. To submit a request for reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact us at accommodations@corning.com.

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