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Polymer Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CARLISLE COMPANIES

Staff ACW Scientist

Carlisle, PA

... and polymer science expertise and the latest technologies in laboratory-, pilot-, and plant-scale processing equipment to support the existing business and to create new, innovative products ...

PIP Global

Senior Polymer Chemist

Charleston, SC · 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 ...

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How much do polymer science jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer science in the United States is $87,842.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $100,000.00 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?

A polymer scientist's average salary varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with advanced skills in polymer characterization and synthesis can earn higher salaries, especially in research and development environments.

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, structure, 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 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 chemical synthesis, characterization techniques, and familiarity with laboratory equipment. Opportunities are available in manufacturing, research and development, and quality assurance environments.
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Polymer Science jobs near you

Senior Polymer Chemist - Thermoset Resin Development

Approach Venture

Broomfield, CO • On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Senior Polymer Chemist - Thermoset Resin Development

Broomfield, Colorado | On-site


Opportunity Summary

Join an early-stage advanced manufacturing company developing next-generation production technologies for aerospace, defense, and other high-performance industries. The team is building automated manufacturing systems that combine additive manufacturing, process controls, and materials science to produce complex composite structures at scale. As the first dedicated materials hire, you will take ownership of polymer and thermoset resin development from formulation through production. This is a highly hands-on role focused on translating material chemistry into reliable manufacturing processes. You will work closely with engineering leadership to develop resin systems, optimize material performance, and establish the foundation for future materials development across the organization.


About Us

We are a venture-backed pre-seed startup focused on advancing the manufacturing of high-performance composite components. Our team is developing scalable production technologies that address critical supply chain challenges while enabling new capabilities in aerospace, defense, and industrial markets. The company combines expertise in materials science, automation, hardware development, and manufacturing to bring advanced materials from the laboratory into production environments.


Job Duties

  • Lead the development and optimization of thermoset resin formulations for advanced manufacturing applications
  • Design and refine polymer chemistries to achieve targeted processing, curing, thermal, and mechanical performance requirements
  • Develop and improve material mixing, handling, and processing procedures to ensure repeatability and consistency
  • Characterize material behavior using rheological, thermal, and mechanical testing methods
  • Evaluate cure kinetics, viscosity profiles, filler interactions, and overall resin performance
  • Scale formulations from laboratory development through pilot and production-level manufacturing
  • Partner with mechanical, manufacturing, software, and process engineers to optimize material-process integration
  • Establish quality control procedures, material specifications, and validation methodologies
  • Identify, evaluate, and qualify raw material suppliers and new material systems
  • Maintain detailed technical documentation, experimental records, and process data
  • Support intellectual property development and long-term materials strategy
  • Investigate and solve manufacturing, processing, and performance-related material challenges


Qualifications

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field
  • 4+ years of experience developing thermoset resin systems, polymer formulations, or composite materials
  • Strong understanding of polymer chemistry, curing mechanisms, and formulation development
  • Experience working with filled resin systems, additives, reinforcement materials, and viscosity modification techniques
  • Hands-on experience with material mixing, processing, degassing, and rheological control
  • Familiarity with analytical and characterization methods such as DSC, TGA, DMA, tensile testing, and microscopy
  • Experience transitioning materials from research environments into manufacturing or production settings
  • Ability to independently design experiments and analyze technical data
  • Strong communication skills and comfort working within multidisciplinary engineering teams


Preferred Experience

  • PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, or a related discipline
  • Experience developing epoxy, phenolic, cyanate ester, or other high-performance thermoset systems
  • Background in aerospace, defense, or other high-reliability industries
  • Experience with composite manufacturing processes and reinforced material systems
  • Familiarity with additive manufacturing, paste extrusion, or advanced manufacturing technologies
  • Knowledge of high-temperature materials, thermal protection systems, or ablative materials
  • Experience supporting new product introduction or manufacturing scale-up efforts
  • Prior experience as an early technical hire within a startup environment


Why Join Us

  • Establish the company's materials development function
  • Work directly with founders and engineering leadership on core technology development
  • Own critical decisions around resin chemistry, formulation strategy, and manufacturing scale-up
  • Help solve important manufacturing and supply chain challenges in aerospace and defense
  • Receive meaningful equity ownership in an early-stage venture
  • Collaborate with a highly technical, hands-on team building breakthrough manufacturing capabilities
  • Gain broad exposure across materials development, hardware systems, manufacturing, and product strategy


Compensation Details

$120,000 - $170,000