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Polymer Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Verde Bioresins, Inc

Sr Polymer Chemist

Fullerton, CA

$120K - $130K/yr

D. or Masters in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Polymer Science, or related field · Background/experience with mechanical, chemical and physical material testing techniques ...

Eurofins Scientific

Scientist, TEM

Sunnyvale, CA

Our parent company, Eurofins Scientific, is a multi-billion-dollar global leader in engineering and scientific services operating over 950 labs in 60 countries with 65,000 employees with a portfolio ...

Eurofins Scientific

Scientist, TEM

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

Our parent company, Eurofins Scientific, is a multi-billion-dollar global leader in engineering and scientific services operating over 950 labs in 60 countries with 65,000 employees with a portfolio ...

nationalbeverage

Beverage Scientist

Hayward, CA

The Beverage Scientist develops and optimizes formulas and processes for beverage products under the National Beverage portfolio. Owns and supports product development stages from concept to ...

National Beverage

Beverage Scientist

Hayward, CA · On-site

$110K/yr

The Beverage Scientist develops and optimizes formulas and processes for beverage products under the National Beverage portfolio. Owns and supports product development stages from concept to ...

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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 Jul 24, 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.
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Polymer Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Polymer Scientist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,842 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Sr Polymer Chemist

Verde Bioresins, Inc

Fullerton, CA

$120K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Polymer Chemist will report to our Head of R&D and will be responsible for formulating and testing new bio-based polymers and additives for production, testing their characterization and analyzing experimental results to guide future directions in our R&D lab. The ideal candidate will be a self-starter and thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment.

Salary: $120,000.00 - $130,000.00 per year

LOCATION: Fullerton, CA

(CA CANDIDATES ONLY)

RESPONSIBILITIES:

· Provide expertise in polymer processing/structure/property relationships and guide selection of raw materials and manufacturing parameters.

· Support the development of PolyEarthylene resins from research into product development and manufacturing, in collaboration with process development, sales and operations teams

· Maintain hands-on involvement in laboratory experimentation and troubleshooting throughout the development lifecycle

· Help develop high quality technical communication, including reports and presentations

· Engage with Verde sales teams to help identify technical opportunities, guide portfolio strategy, and support commercialization of PolyEarthylene resins.

· Leverage external partnerships and third-party organizations to accelerate learning, expand testing capabilities, and enhance technology development.

· Support customer trials with occasional travel (5-10%)

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

· Ph.D. or Masters in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Polymer Science, or related field

· Background/experience with mechanical, chemical and physical material testing techniques, such as ASTM tensile and flexural strength determination, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and polymer rheology

· Knowledge of modern plastic manufacturing processes, including injection molding, blow molding, thermoforming, film extrusion/lamination, and rapid prototyping

· Knowledge and familiarity with polyolefin materials and biobased polyesters, such as polylactic acid

· Knowledge and application of laboratory safety best practices, including SDS cataloging, material storage, material disposal, inventory, and maintenance of related equipment

· Ability to plan and execute independent lab work, while collaborating effectively in multidisciplinary teams.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

·The position requires physical activity and the handling of chemicals. Candidates are required to follow the safety protocols and be familiar with personal protective equipment (PPE) while working in the laboratory environment.

·5-10% travel required to support customer trials

For more information visit us at www.verdebioresins.com

Verde Bioresins, Incâ„¢ is an innovative material science company with the mission of creating sustainable solutions to reduce plastic waste in our natural environment. With speed and agility in mind, Verde partners diligently with its brand and manufacturing customers to design, engineer and manufacture sustainable biopolymer technology for durable consumer goods.

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