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Polymer Scientist Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Cascade Bio

Process Development Scientist

Denver, CO · On-site

At Cascade Biocatalysts, we are commercializing our Body Armor for Enzymes, a polymer science innovation that makes enzymes rugged and reliable for cost-effective biomanufacturing. Our platform ...

Cascade Bio

Process Development Scientist

Denver, CO

$110K - $150K/yr

At Cascade Biocatalysts, we are commercializing our Body Armor for Enzymes, a polymer science innovation that makes enzymes rugged and reliable for cost-effective biomanufacturing. Our platform ...

Solid Power

Materials Engineering Intern

Louisville, CO · On-site

$25/hr

The ideal candidate is currently pursuing a degree in Materials Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Polymer Science, or a related field and is eager to apply their academic knowledge to ...

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All JobsPolymer Scientist JobsPolymer Scientist Jobs in Colorado

Polymer Scientist information

See Colorado salary details

$61.5K

$92.4K

$129.9K

How much do polymer scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer scientist in Colorado is $92,368.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,400.00 and $105,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a polymer scientist?

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 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.

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 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 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.

How much does a polymer scientist make?

A polymer scientist's average salary in the United States ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in polymer synthesis or characterization can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000 per year.

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, laboratory skills, and often a master's or Ph.D. degree. Job prospects are generally stable, with opportunities for innovation and advancement in research and development roles.
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Polymer Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Polymer Scientist job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,368 per year, or $44.4 per hour.

Senior Polymer Chemist - Thermoset Resin Development

Approach Venture LLC

Broomfield, CO • On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 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

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