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Polymer Scientist Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

ENTEK INTERNATIONAL LLC

Polymer Scientist

Lebanon, OR

$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 ...

ENTEK

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 ...

NIC Industries Inc

Sr. R&D Scientist

White City, OR

$91K - $125K/yr

Advanced degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, Polymer Science, or a related technical field. * 5+ years of relevant industry experience in coatings formulation ...

NIC Industries Inc

Sr. R&D Scientist

White City, OR · On-site

$91K - $125K/yr

Advanced degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, Polymer Science, or a related technical field. * 5+ years of relevant industry experience in coatings formulation ...

NIC Industries

Sr. R&D Scientist

White City, OR · On-site

$91K - $125K/yr

Advanced degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, Polymer Science, or a related technical field. * 5+ years of relevant industry experience in coatings formulation ...

INTEL

Packaging Module Development Engineer

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$61.25 - $86.49/hr

The ideal candidate will have a strong educational foundation in Materials Science, such as Metallurgy or Polymer Science or Polymer Chemistry, with an excellent understanding of structure-property ...

INTEL

Packaging Module Development Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$61.25 - $86.49/hr

The ideal candidate will have a strong educational foundation in Materials Science, such as Metallurgy or Polymer Science or Polymer Chemistry, with an excellent understanding of structure-property ...

INTEL

Packaging Module Development Engineer

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$61.25 - $86.49/hr

The ideal candidate will have a strong educational foundation in Materials Science, such as Metallurgy or Polymer Science or Polymer Chemistry, with an excellent understanding of structure-property ...

INTEL

Packaging Module Development Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$61.25 - $86.49/hr

The ideal candidate will have a strong educational foundation in Materials Science, such as Metallurgy or Polymer Science or Polymer Chemistry, with an excellent understanding of structure-property ...

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Polymer Scientist information

See Oregon salary details

$61.9K

$92.9K

$130.6K

How much do polymer scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer scientist in Oregon is $92,875.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,800.00 and $105,700.00 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.
More about Polymer Scientist jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Polymer Scientist jobs in Oregon?

The most popular types of Polymer Scientist jobs in Oregon are:

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For Polymer Scientist jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Polymer Scientist jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Polymer Scientist jobs in Oregon are:

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Cities in Oregon with the most Polymer Scientist job openings:

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For Polymer Scientist jobs in OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Polymer Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Polymer Scientist job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,875 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Polymer Scientist

Lebanon, OR

ENTEK INTERNATIONAL LLC
See more jobs at ENTEK INTERNATIONAL LLCexternal

$115K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Description

Summary Description: 

This position is responsible for research, development, and optimization of microporous membranes designed for breathable membrane and other applications. The position requires a detailed technical understanding of porous materials, characterization techniques, structure-property relationships, and process optimization as related to ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). 


Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Collaborates with Engineering, Process Technologist, and Quality Manager to solve process problems, minimize variability, and improve current microporous membrane production processes.
  • Works with R&D to schedule production trials to improve product performance or create new products based upon extrusion-extraction technologies.
  • Documents all production trials and characteristics of the resultant membranes; works with Process Technologist to implement standard run conditions for all new products
  • Prepares R&D monthly reports on technical activities
  • Works closely with the CTO to develop new membrane concepts or characterization methods
  • Interfaces with key customer(s) and provides direct technical service support as required
  • Develops technical presentations for use in Quarterly meetings
  • Files provisional patents on new developments
  • Develops models for transport properties through microporous membranes.
  • Investigates new characterization techniques for pore size distribution (e.g., small-angle x-ray scattering, NMR, etc.) and pore interconnectivity.
  • Maintains safe operations by adhering to safety procedures and regulations
  • Follows Lean manufacturing utilizing tools such as Kaizans, 5S, RIE's and other work area standards
  • Represent ENTEK with the highest standard of professional conduct when interacting with all levels of staff, suppliers, and customers. 
  • Adopt ENTEK culture and core values.
The position accomplishes these responsibilities through a respectful, constructive, and energetic style, guided by ENTEK's Core Values, strategic objectives, and Servant Leadership. This position will represent ENTEK with the highest standard of professional conduct when interacting with partners, suppliers, and customers.  
Supervisory Duties:

None

Requirements

Required Skills/Abilities:


Critical knowledge

  • Computer savvy
  • Superb English written and verbal skills
  • Excellent presentation skills

Critical experience

  • Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to work in a team environment and with cross-functional professionals
  • High drive for results and advanced problem-solving skills
  • Finds innovative solutions to problems
  • 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 experiments
  • Be the technical face of the company in front of key customer(s)
  • Expertise level in porous materials and polymer science
  • Strong work ethic with a desire to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
Education and Experience:


Minimum Qualifications & Experience:

  • Ph.D. degree or equivalent work experience in polymer science, materials science, or chemical engineering
  • >3 years of experience, including post-doctoral fellowship, if any.


Preferred Qualifications & Experience:

  • Prior experience in UHMWPE gel processing, blown film technology, characterization of porous materials, experimental design, and Lean principles is highly desired.
  • Prior experience in research and development of breathable membranes or filtration membranes.
  • Background in basic statistics, experimental design, and Minitab software is preferred.
Physical Requirements:

The following physical activities are necessary to perform the essential functions of this job.

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to talk or hear. 
  • The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, or sit for extended lengths of time. 
  • The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 40      pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. 
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

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