1

Polymer Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Flexible (Initially work to be carried out in Springfield, OR until Dublin, OH lab opens in 2027) Hexion is seeking a Polymer Scientist to join our Research & Development team with a first project ...

Polymer Scientist

Lebanon, OR · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Strong background in porous materials and polymer science Critical technical, professional, and personal capabilities * Lead and drive engineers & production team through high-level projects and ...

Flexible (Initially work to be carried out in Springfield, OR until Dublin, OH lab opens in 2027) Hexion is seeking a Polymer Scientist to join our Research & Development team with a first project ...

Flexible (Initially work to be carried out in Springfield, OR until Dublin, OH lab opens in 2027) Hexion is seeking a Polymer Scientist to join our Research & Development team with a first project ...

Polymer Scientist

Lebanon, OR · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Strong background in porous materials and polymer science Critical technical, professional, and personal capabilities * Lead and drive engineers & production team through high-level projects and ...

We need a visionary polymer chemist and/or material scientist with a track record of success. Are you a creative expert in developing new chemistries, formulations, and products? Do you want ...

Scientist I, Manufacturing Sciences / Scientist - Polymer Chemistry Location: Sunnyvale, CA - 94085 Duration: 12 Months Job Type: Temporary Assignment Work Type: Onsite Shift: Monday to Friday from ...

Apply Early

About the Company Airswift is seeking a Senior Polymer Research Scientist to lead new technology development, drive innovation, and generate intellectual property. This position is ideal for a highly ...

Kodiak Sciences is a fast-growing clinical-stage biotechnology company with a strong focus in ... We are seeking a Polymer Chemist to join our Polymer Sciences Team, Department of Chemistry. The ...

Description Kodiak Sciences is a fast-growing clinical-stage biotechnology company with a strong ... We are seeking a Polymer Chemist to join our Polymer Sciences Team, Department of Chemistry. The ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Polymer Scientist information

See salary details

$58.5K

$87.8K

$123.5K

How much do polymer scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer scientist 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 Does a Polymer Scientist Do?

A polymer scientist designs new materials, such as cellulose, rubber, Kevlar, and Teflon, which are then used to make products. They work in a lab setting with a team of researchers, trying different formulations to create new polymers. As a polymer scientist, your career responsibilities and duties include understanding how materials will react with one another, whether they are safe for use by humans, and any risks they might pose to the environment. To become a polymer scientist, you need a bachelor’s degree in polymer science, organic chemistry, or a related field. Many higher-level jobs require a master’s degree or doctorate and several years of experience in the field.

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. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in polymer chemistry or materials science can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000. Many positions also require knowledge of laboratory techniques and relevant certifications.

What are Polymer Scientists?

Polymer scientists are professionals who study the chemical, physical, and engineering properties of polymers, which are large molecules made up of repeating structural units. They research, develop, and test new polymer materials for use in various industries such as plastics, textiles, electronics, and biomedical devices. Their work often involves improving the performance, durability, and sustainability of polymer-based products. Polymer scientists may work in laboratories, manufacturing, or academic settings, collaborating with chemists, engineers, and manufacturers to create innovative materials.

What are some common challenges faced by Polymer Scientists when developing new materials, and how are they typically addressed?

Polymer Scientists often encounter challenges related to balancing material properties such as strength, flexibility, and chemical resistance while ensuring cost-effectiveness and scalability for production. Additionally, meeting regulatory standards and environmental concerns, such as recyclability, can be complex. These challenges are usually addressed through interdisciplinary collaboration with chemists, engineers, and manufacturing teams, as well as by staying updated on the latest research and advancements in polymer technology. Experimentation and iterative testing are also crucial parts of the daily workflow to refine material properties.

What are the 4 types of polymers?

Polymer scientists work with four main types of polymers: thermoplastics, thermosetting plastics, elastomers, and biopolymers. These categories are distinguished by their molecular structure and how they respond to heat and stress, influencing their processing and applications in industries such as manufacturing and materials development.

What does a polymer scientist do?

A polymer scientist researches and develops polymers and plastics, studying their properties, structures, and applications. They often work in laboratories, using techniques like spectroscopy and microscopy, and may design new materials for industries such as healthcare, packaging, or automotive. Strong knowledge of chemistry, materials science, and laboratory skills are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Polymer Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Polymer Scientist, you need a strong background in chemistry, materials science, and polymer characterization, usually supported by an advanced degree in a related field. Familiarity with analytical tools such as FTIR, NMR, DSC, and GPC, as well as experience using laboratory information management systems (LIMS), is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective collaboration and communication skills help set top professionals apart. These skills ensure successful research, development, and application of new polymer materials in industries ranging from healthcare to manufacturing.

What is the difference between Polymer Scientist vs Polymer Engineer?

AspectPolymer ScientistPolymer Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Materials Science, or Chemical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, academic settingsManufacturing plants, production facilities, R&D labs
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceutical, cosmetics, research institutions, materials companiesPlastic, packaging, automotive, consumer goods industries
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles, scientific focusUnderstanding product development, manufacturing processes

Polymer Scientists focus on researching and developing new polymers and understanding their properties, often working in labs and academic settings. Polymer Engineers apply this knowledge to design, optimize, and scale manufacturing processes for polymer products in industrial environments. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in their primary focus and work environment.

Which type of scientist is the highest paid?

Among scientists, petroleum engineers and data scientists tend to have the highest average salaries, often exceeding those of polymer scientists. Polymer scientists typically earn competitive wages, especially with advanced degrees and industry experience, but generally do not surpass the highest-paid scientific roles like petroleum or data science specialists.
What cities are hiring for Polymer Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Polymer Scientist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Polymer Scientist jobs? The most popular types of Polymer Scientist jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Polymer Scientist jobs? The top employers for Polymer Scientist jobs are:
What states have the most Polymer Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Polymer Scientist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Polymer Scientist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Polymer Scientist jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Polymer Scientist jobs? For Polymer Scientist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Polymer Scientist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 16% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,842 per year, or $42.2 per hour.
Polymer Scientist

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Company Overview

Hexion is entering a bold new chapter, and we're looking for talented scientists, engineers, and innovators to be part of it. 

With our newly announced expansion of the research and development headquarters in Dublin, Ohio, we're creating high-impact roles that will shape the future of sustainable materials, advanced chemistry, and AI-driven manufacturing. (Learn more about our expansion here: Hexion Selects Columbus Region for Global R&D Center) 

At Hexion, you won't just work on products-you'll build real-world solutions that power industries and make a global impact. Hexion is a place where curiosity is rewarded, innovation is constant, and the possibilities are endless. 

If you're looking for a career that challenges you, inspires you, and puts you at the forefront of what's next, we encourage you to apply today and join us in building the future.

Anything is possible when you imagine everything.  

Position Overview

Location: Flexible (Initially work to be carried out in Springfield, OR until Dublin, OH lab opens in 2027) 

Hexion is seeking a Polymer Scientist to join our Research & Development team with a first project supporting the advancement of high-performance superplasticizers for concrete applications. This role will focus on the design and development of innovative polymer technologies that enable enhanced workability, durability, and sustainability in cementitious systems. 

As part of Hexion's innovation-driven culture, this position will contribute to the development of differentiated solutions aligned with evolving customer needs and low-carbon construction trends. The successful candidate will collaborate across R&D, technical service, and manufacturing to translate laboratory discoveries into commercial products. 

Job Responsibilities
  • Design, synthesize, and optimize water-soluble polymers to meet targeted performance criteria  
  • Establish structure-property relationships to improve dispersion efficiency, slump retention, and cement compatibility across diverse formulations  
  • Plan and execute experimental programs to support new product development, line extensions, and cost/performance optimization  
  • Evaluate polymer performance in cementitious systems in collaboration with application development teams  
  • Utilize analytical techniques (GPC/SEC, NMR, FTIR, rheology, etc.) to characterize polymers and guide development decisions  
  • Partner with process development and manufacturing teams to support scale-up, process robustness, and commercialization efforts  
  • Engage with technical service and commercial teams to understand customer requirements and translate them into R&D solutions  
  • Maintain detailed documentation, prepare technical reports, and communicate results to cross-functional stakeholders  
  • Monitor competitive technologies, patents, and industry trends in construction chemicals and specialty polymers  
  • Adhere to Hexion's safety, health, environmental, and quality standards in all activities 
Minimum Qualifications
  • Ph.D. or M.S. in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline  
  • 5+ years of experience in polymer synthesis and characterization (industrial or academic)  
  • Strong understanding of water-soluble polymers, dispersants, or surfactant systems  
  • Broad polymer synthesis and compounding experience with condensation and free-radical/chain-transfer polymerizations; knowledge of polymer interactions with inorganic oxides or silicates is a plus 
  • Demonstrated ability to design experiments, analyze data, and solve complex technical problems including the use of AI assistants to accelerate development 
  • Experience with scale-up, pilot plant, and/or manufacturing environments  
  • Effective communication skills and ability to work in a collaborative, cross-functional environment  
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in construction chemicals, particularly superplasticizers, concrete admixtures or general knowledge of cement chemistry, hydration behavior, and rheology of cementitious systems  
  • Interest or experience in sustainable materials, including technologies supporting low-carbon cement systems  
  • Effective in working through multi-site collaborative research program 
Other

We are an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, pregnancy, race, national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran or military status, status as a qualified individual with a disability or any other characteristic protected by law.

To be considered for this position candidates are required to submit an application for employment through our career site and, be at least 18 years of age.  Any offer of employment will be conditioned upon successful completion of a drug test and background investigation, as well as authorization for the Company to conduct additional periodic background checks as required by the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS) or regulations adopted by the department of Homeland Security or other regulatory agencies. A prior criminal record is not an automatic bar to employment, and the Company will conduct an individualized assessment and reassessment, consistent with applicable law, prior to making any final employment decision.