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Polymer Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Luna Labs USA

Polymer Composites Specialist

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Polymer Composites Specialist About Luna Labs Luna Labs is a product development company working ... Ideal candidates will have a background in materials science with specific experience in project ...

Kodiak Sciences Inc.

Polymer Chemist

Palo Alto, CA

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 ...

Kodiak Sciences Inc.

Polymer Chemist

Palo Alto, CA

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 ...

Kodiak Sciences Inc

Polymer Chemist

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

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 ...

Socket.dev

Principal Scientist Polymer Rheology

Mentor, OH · On-site

$100 - $130/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Paid vacation and paid holidays Avery Dennison is seeking an accomplished Principal Scientist to provide technical leadership in Polymer Rheology and Processing within the Global Materials Science ...

Verde Bioresins, Inc

Polymer Chemist

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Verde Bioresins, Inc? is an innovative material science company with the mission of creating ... Polymer Chemist will be responsible for formulating and testing new bio-based polymers and ...

Corning

Senior Scientist - Polymer Mechanics

Corning, NY · On-site

$75K - $103K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline. * Demonstrated research experience in polymer characterization ...

Corning

Senior Scientist - Polymer Mechanics

Corning, NY

$107K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline. * Demonstrated research experience in polymer characterization ...

STENA

Principle Engineer - Polymer Materials

Baltimore, MD · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Who YOU are and what YOU can become ST Engineering MRAS is seeking a Principle Engineer - Polymer Materials to serve as a senior technical authority for polymer science, composite materials, and ...

Corning

Senior Scientist - Polymer Mechanics

Corning, NY

$75K - $103K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline. * Demonstrated research experience in polymer characterization ...

Corning

Senior Scientist - Polymer Mechanics

Corning, NY

$77K - $106K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline. * Demonstrated research experience in polymer characterization ...

Corning

Senior Scientist - Polymer Mechanics

Corning, NY · On-site

$77K - $107K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline. * Demonstrated research experience in polymer characterization ...

Applied Medical Technology

Materials Scientist

Brecksville, OH · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Materials/Polymer Scientist/Engineer, you will be responsible for creating, monitoring, and controlling material related projects. You will provide materials expertise in projects that partner ...

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Showing results 21-40

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Polymer Scientist information

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$58.5K

$87.8K

$123.5K

How much do polymer scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 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 per year.

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 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 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.

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 in research, manufacturing, and product development sectors.
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Polymer Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Polymer Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,842 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Senior Scientist - Polymer Mechanics-Corning,New York

Corning

Elkland, PA • On-site

$107K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Corning rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 128 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 539 rated manufacturers

Job description

Requisition Number: 76698
The company built on breakthroughs.
Join us.
Corning is one of the world's leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries of what's possible.
How do we do this? With our people. They break through limitations and expectations - not once in a career, but every day. They help move our company, and the world, forward.
At Corning, there are endless possibilities for making an impact. You can help connect the unconnected, drive the future of automobiles, transform at-home entertainment, and ensure the delivery of lifesaving medicines. And so much more.
Come break through with us.
Corning's businesses are ever-evolving to best serve our customers, industries, and consumers. Today, we accelerate and transform life sciences, mobile consumer electronics, optical communications, display, automotive, and solar markets. We are changing the world with:
  • Trusted products that accelerate drug discovery, development, and delivery to save lives
  • Damage-resistant cover glass to enhance the devices that keep us connected
  • Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light
  • Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences
  • Auto glass and ceramics to drive cleaner, safer, and smarter transportation
  • Solar polysilicon, wafers, and innovative photovoltaic modules, enabling low-cost solar energy solutions

Role Purpose
Corning is seeking a Scientist to support the reliability assessment and performance evaluation of polymeric materials used in advanced applications. This role will focus on polymer thermomechanical characterization, mechanical testing, and failure mode analysis to generate fundamental insights into material behavior and drive improvements in product and material performance. The position will also involve implementing finite element analysis (FEA) and data-driven models.
The successful candidate will combine hands-on laboratory experimentation with rigorous technical analysis to investigate degradation and failure mechanisms, quantify reliability risks, and develop novel characterization approaches. This role requires strong scientific judgment, technical independence, and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design and execute experimental studies to evaluate polymer behavior under relevant application conditions, including load, temperature, time, and environmental exposure.
  • Conduct rheological, thermomechanical, and mechanical characterization of polymeric materials.
  • Perform failure mode and degradation analysis to identify mechanisms affecting reliability and long-term performance.
  • Develop, refine, and implement new or modified test methods to address technical gaps and improve characterization capability.
  • Analyze and interpret experimental results to establish structure-property-performance relationships and identify reliability risks.
  • Identify, evaluate, and recommend opportunities to improve material, product, or process performance based on scientific findings.
  • Cross validates experimental results with Finite Element Analysis.
  • Document and communicate technical results, conclusions, and recommendations through reports, presentations, and project updates.
  • Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and cross-functional teams to support research and development objectives.

Experiences/Education - Required
  • PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • Demonstrated research experience in polymer characterization, materials behavior, or reliability assessment.
  • Strong knowledge of polymer behavior under different application conditions, including mechanical, thermal, and environmental effects.
  • Experience with polymer characterization techniques, including rheological, thermomechanical, nanoindentation, and mechanical testing.
  • Experience with failure analysis, degradation studies, or materials reliability assessment.
  • Strong experimental design, data analysis, and scientific problem-solving skills.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Experiences/Education - Desired
  • Experience in Finite Element Analysis and data driven modeling
  • Experience developing or adapting laboratory test methods to address new technical challenges as well as familiarity with theoretical mechanics.
  • Familiarity with reliability assessment of polymeric materials in product or application-focused environments.
  • Experience translating characterization results into recommendations for product, material, or process improvement.
  • Record of technical publications, presentations, patents, or other research contributions.

This position supports immigration sponsorship.
The range for this position is $77,927.00 - $107,150.00 assuming full time status. Starting pay for the successful applicant is dependent on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education.
A job that shapes a life.
Corning offers you the total package.
Your well-being is our priority. Our compensation and benefits package supports your health and wellness, financial aspirations, and career from day one.
  • Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win.
  • As part of our commitment to your financial well-being, we provide a 100% company-paid pension benefit with fixed contributions that grow throughout your career. Combined with matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan, Corning's total contributions to your retirement accounts can reach between 7% and 12% of your pay, depending on your age and years of service.
  • Our health and well-being benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company-paid life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your family.
  • Getting paid for our work is important, but feeling appreciated and recognized for those contributions motivates us much more. That's why Corning offers a recognition program to celebrate successes and reward colleagues who make exceptional contributions.

We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status.
Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and considers requests for reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other benefits and privileges of employment. To submit a request for reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact us at accommodations@corning.com.

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