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Polymer Science Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Emphasizes mechanistic reasoning over memorization and connects organic chemistry to drug design, polymer science, and biochemistry pathways. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar ...

Emphasizes mechanistic reasoning and connects organic chemistry to drug synthesis and polymer science. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with second-semester organic chemistry ...

Polymer Science information

See Madison, WI salary details

$59K

$88.5K

$124.5K

How much do polymer science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer science in Madison, WI is $88,526.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,100.00 and $100,800.00 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 popular job titles related to Polymer Science jobs in Madison, WI?

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

Infographic showing various Polymer Science job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,526 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

Materials Process Engineer

Placon Corporation

Madison, WI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Placon rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 84 rated plastic manufacturers


Job description

Materials Process EngineerWe're looking for a curious and hands-on Materials Process Engineer who enjoys solving manufacturing challenges, developing innovative materials, and driving continuous improvement. If you have a strong technical background in polymers or materials science and enjoy collaborating across engineering, innovation, and production teams, this is a great opportunity to make a meaningful impact on new product development and manufacturing excellence.CompensationCompetitive salary based on experience.Work ScheduleStandard business hours, M-F 8am - 5pm | Additional flexibility as needed to support projects, trials, and equipment implementation.Why Placon – You'll Love It Here• Play a key role in developing next-generation materials and products• Work with advanced manufacturing technologies and processes• Collaborate with Innovation, Design, Engineering, and Production teams• Influence capital projects and process improvements across the organization• Growth-focused environment that encourages learning and innovation• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package• Opportunity to make a direct impact on product quality, efficiency, and profitability What You'll Do• Develop and execute plans to qualify new materials and products while demonstrating process capability• Investigate, test, and establish specifications for new materials used in thermoforming processes, including mono- and multilayer coextrusions, laminations, and coatings• Collect, analyze, and present data-driven recommendations to support decision-making• Support capital equipment projects by becoming a subject matter expert on materials, processes, and equipment• Create work instructions, process documentation, and training materials for production teams• Collaborate with Design and Engineering teams to support new product development and tooling requirements• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including specifications and technical data sheets• Establish and review product standards for material usage, labor, and equipment performance• Support process development and continuous improvement initiatives within ISO quality systems• Prepare capital expenditure proposals and support project approval processes• Research and evaluate next-generation materials and manufacturing technologies What You Bring• Bachelor's degree in Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field• Strong technical understanding of polymer materials, processing methods, and testing techniques• Experience collecting and analyzing data to support process and product decisions• Excellent written and verbal communication skills• Ability to work effectively across cross-functional teams• Strong organizational, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills• Self-motivated with exceptional attention to detail and time management skillsWhat Makes You Stand Out• Experience in a manufacturing environment• Knowledge of extrusion, thermoforming, and related plastics processing technologies• Understanding of statistical process control and capability analysis• Experience with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies• Project management experience, including project planning, risk identification, and milestone tracking• Familiarity with ERP systems, QMS software, Oracle, InfinityQS, and Microsoft Office Suite Work Environment• Combination of office and manufacturing environments• Exposure to industrial equipment, including extruders, thermoformers, and trim presses• GMP-certified manufacturing environment, ISO 9001-certified facility, and ISO 8 clean room operations.Travel• Limited travel, including local, regional, national, and occasional international trips to support projects, suppliers, and industry events Does this sound like you?If you feel that this job is what you're looking for, applying is a piece of cake – just follow the instructions on this page. Good luck!Placon employment offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment drug test, basic physical, background check, educational verification, and reference checks (as applicable).Placon requires that employees have and maintain authorization to work in the country in which the role is based. In general, Placon does not sponsor candidates for non-immigrant visas or permanent residency unless based on business need.Placon is committed to equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, marital status, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or other protected characteristics.This role requires the ability to work through differing perspectives and resolve conflict in a respectful and professional manner consistent with The Placon Way.


What Placon employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

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About Placon

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Plastics packaging film and sheet (including laminated) manufacturing

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Fitchburg, WI, US

Year founded

1966

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