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Polymer Scientist Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

PIP Global

Senior Polymer Chemist

Baton Rouge, LA · 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 ...

Louisiana State University

Professor

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

Academic This position will be responsible for developing and sustaining a nationally and internationally recognized research program in electrochemical engineering and polymer science, especially ...

Varsity Tutors

Organic Chemistry Tutor

Baton Rouge, LA · 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 ...

Varsity Tutors

Organic Chemistry 2 Tutor

Baton Rouge, LA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes mechanistic reasoning and connects organic chemistry to drug synthesis and polymer science. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with second-semester organic chemistry ...

All JobsPolymer Scientist JobsPolymer Scientist Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

Polymer Scientist information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$56.2K

$84.3K

$118.6K

How much do polymer scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer scientist in Baton Rouge, LA is $84,350.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,500.00 and $96,000.00 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 Baton Rouge, LA?

The most popular types of Polymer Scientist jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

What are popular job titles related to Polymer Scientist jobs in Baton Rouge, LA?

For Polymer Scientist jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Polymer Scientist jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Polymer Scientist jobs?

Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Polymer Scientist job openings:

Polymer Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Polymer Scientist job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,350 per year, or $40.6 per hour.

Senior Polymer Chemist

PIP Global

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Senior Polymer Chemist
Location: North Charleston, South Carolina
*Relocation assistance is available for eligible candidates. *
The Senior Polymer Chemist will lead the development, formulation, and optimization of elastomeric materials used in electrical safety products, including insulating gloves and sleeves. This role will serve as a technical leader across R&D and manufacturing, driving innovation in low dielectric, high-performance rubber systems while ensuring compliance with applicable safety and performance standards. This role will also play a critical role in bridging material science, process engineering, and product performance, with a strong focus on scalable formulations, reliability, and regulatory compliance.
This is an onsite position in North Charleston, SC.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
Formulation & Material Development
  • Lead formulation of elastomer compounds using materials such as, Natural Rubber (NR), Bromo butyl / Butyl Rubber, EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomers
  • Optimize formulations for dielectric strength / electrical insulation performance, mechanical durability (tensile, elongation, tear resistance) and environmental resistance (ozone, heat, moisture, chemicals)
  • Evaluate additives including curatives, accelerators, plasticizers, fillers, and stabilizers

Process & Manufacturing Integration
  • Partner with manufacturing teams to scale formulations from lab to production
  • Support mixing, calendaring, dipping, and curing processes
  • Troubleshoot processing issues (e.g., viscosity control, dispersion, cure kinetics)
  • Drive continuous improvement in yield, scrap reduction, and cycle times

Product Performance & Compliance
  • Ensure materials meet applicable industry standards (e.g., ASTM, IEC for electrical PPE)
  • Lead testing protocols for dielectric breakdown, aging, and physical properties
  • Support certification and audit processes related to safety compliance

Technical Leadership
  • Act as a subject matter expert for elastomer chemistry across the organization
  • Mentor junior chemists and lab technicians
  • Interface with suppliers to evaluate new raw materials and technologies
  • Provide technical input to product development, sourcing, and quality teams

Innovation & Strategy
  • Identify opportunities for next-generation materials (e.g., improved flexibility, lighter weight, enhanced dielectric properties)
  • Stay current on advancements in polymer science and electrical insulation materials
  • Support IP development, where applicable

REQUIREMENTS
  • Five or more years of experience and a Master's degree or a Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, or related field, with deep experience in elastomer formulation and development.
  • Prior experience with rubber compounding and curing systems (sulfur, peroxide, etc.)
  • Prior experience with dielectric or insulating material applications
  • Strong understanding of Structure-property relationships in elastomers and rheology, cure kinetics, and compound processing with elastomeric materials
  • Experience with lab instrumentation (e.g., MDR, DSC, TGA, tensile testing, dielectric testing)
  • Experience supporting manufacturing scale-up

Apply