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Polymer Science Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Exponent Inc.

Scientist/Associate (Ph.D.)

Bowie, MD · On-site

$124.80 - $161.20/hr

Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field * A strong theoretical and practical knowledge of macromolecules and associated ...

Exponent Inc.

Scientist/Associate (Ph.D.)

Bowie, MD · On-site

$140K - $162K/yr

Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field * A strong theoretical and practical knowledge of macromolecules and associated ...

Exponent Inc.

Scientist/Associate (Ph.D.)

Bowie, MD

Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field * A strong theoretical and practical knowledge of macromolecules and associated ...

Exponent Inc.

Scientist/Associate (Ph.D.)

Bowie, MD · On-site

Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field * A strong theoretical and practical knowledge of macromolecules and associated ...

Exponent Inc.

Scientist/Associate (Ph.D.)

Bowie, MD · On-site

Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field * A strong theoretical and practical knowledge of macromolecules and associated ...

Exponent Inc.

Scientist/Associate (Ph.D.)

Bowie, MD · On-site

$140K - $162K/yr

Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field * A strong theoretical and practical knowledge of macromolecules and associated ...

Exponent Inc.

Scientist/Associate (Ph.D.)

Bowie, MD

Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field * A strong theoretical and practical knowledge of macromolecules and associated ...

Varsity Tutors

Organic Chemistry Tutor

Rockville, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

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

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Polymer Science information

See Washington, DC salary details

$66.2K

$99.5K

$139.8K

How much do polymer science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer science in Washington, DC is $99,454.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,500.00 and $113,200.00 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 Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Polymer Science jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Polymer Science jobs in Washington, DC?

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

What job categories do people searching Polymer Science jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Polymer Science jobs in Washington, DC are:

Polymer Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Polymer Science job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,454 per year, or $47.8 per hour.

NIST PREP Postdoc Associate in Fiber, Composites, and Polymer Sciences

Southeastern Universities Research Association

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

This position is part of the National Institute of Standards (NIST) Professional Research Experience (PREP) program. NIST recognizes that its research staff may wish to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest, thus requires that such institutions must be the recipient of a PREP award. The PREP program requires staff from a wide range of backgrounds to work on scientific research in many areas. Employees in this position will perform technical work that underpins the scientific research of the collaboration.
Research Title: Fiber, composites, and polymer scientist
The work will entail: The Materials Measurement Laboratory of the National Institute of Standards and Technology is seeking qualified candidates (U.S. Citizens Preferred) for a fiber, composites, and polymer scientist position to lead metrology development in thermomechanical/thermal analysis, chemical analysis, electron microscopy, and structure-property relationships for complex high strength fibers as well as polymeric and composite materials. This role requires hands-on ownership of advanced instrumentation, development of robust and reproducible test methods, and translation of results into actionable guidance for materials design, performance evaluation, and reliability.
Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
  • Design and execute thermomechanical characterization of polymeric/composite systems
  • Develop techniques to fabricate model fiber/composite systems with novel properties
  • Lead thermal, thermomechanical, and chemical/structural characterization of materials
  • Author peer-reviewed publications and present research to stakeholders
  • Support collaborative programs and deliver stakeholder technical solutions

Qualifications
  • Ph.D. in materials science, polymer science, fiber science, chemical engineering, or a related discipline
  • Expertise in molecular spectroscopy, with experience analyzing single fibers
  • Hands-on experience with thermal analysis (DSC, DMA/TGA/TMA)
  • Experience working with complex materials (high-strength fibers, composite armor, or structural composites)
  • Background in polymer viscoelasticity and physics
  • Strong quantitative/data skills (Matlab/Python/Origin)
  • Demonstrated record of technical writing and public speaking
  • Ability to lead projects, mentor students/postdocs, and coordinate collaborations

Desirable Qualifications:
  • Experience in long-term reliability studies

Privacy Act StatementAuthority: 15 U.S.C. § 278g-1(e)(1) and (e)(3) and 15 U.S.C. § 272(b) and (c)
Purpose: The National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) hosts the Professional Research Experience Program (PREP) which is designed to provide valuable laboratory experience and financial assistance to undergraduates, post-bachelor's degree holders, graduate students, master's degree holders, postdocs, and faculty.
PREP is a 5-year cooperative agreement between NIST laboratories and participating PREP Universities to establish a collaborative research relationship between NIST and U.S. institutions of higher education in the following disciplines including (but may not be limited to) biochemistry, biological sciences, chemistry, computer science, engineering, electronics, materials science, mathematics, nanoscale science, neutron science, physical science, physics, and statistics. This collection of information is needed to facilitate administrative functions of the PREP Program.
Routine Uses: NIST will use the information collected to perform the requisite reviews of the applications to determine eligibility, and to meet programmatic requirements. Disclosure of this information is also subject to all the published routine uses as identified in the Privacy Act System of Records Notices: NIST-1: NIST Associates.
Disclosure: Furnishing this information is voluntary. When you submit the form, you are indicating your voluntary consent for NIST to use of the information you submit for the purpose stated.
SURA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that no one should be discriminated against because of their differences, such as age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity and expression, religion, or sexual orientation. All employment decisions shall be made without regard to age, race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status, or any other basis as protected by federal, state, or local law.
PREP0004204

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