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Polymer Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FXI

Principal R&D Scientist

Aston, PA · On-site

An ideal candidate is a highly skilled, hands-on, polymer scientist with a deep understanding of polymer chemistry and materials science, polymer formulation experience, and a strong problem-solving ...

Exponent Inc.

Scientist/Associate (Ph.D.)

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$140K - $162K/yr

D.s * 90+ Disciplines * 30+ Offices globally Our Opportunity We are currently seeking a Polymer Scientist for our Polymers & Chemistry Practice in Menlo Park, CA. In this role you will work as part ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

CARLISLE COMPANIES

Staff ACW Scientist

Carlisle, PA · On-site

The ACW scientist will leverage their material and polymer science expertise and the latest technologies in laboratory-, pilot-, and plant-scale processing equipment to support the existing business ...

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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$87.8K

$123.5K

How much do polymer scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 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.

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 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.

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Polymer Scientist jobs near you
Materials Scientist

Materials Scientist

Applied Medical Technology, Inc

Brecksville, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Since 1985, our core business has been enteral device product development, design, manufacturing, and engineering in a state-of-the-art facility near Cleveland, Ohio. AMT's steady growth consistently creates job opportunities in Northeast Ohio. We are always searching for new talent and would love for you to join our team! We strive to keep the small company feeling while still reaching users all over the globe.
This position is 100% on-site in Brecksville, OH.
Position Summary:
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 with design and manufacturing engineers and ensure manufacturability and performance of devices through proper material selection and processing. Additional projects will be in partnership with Quality Assurance in test method development and material characterization to help drive continuous improvement. The individual in this position will interface multiple R&D projects including design, preparation and execution of experiments, analysis and presentation of results, and coordination with external characterization laboratories. You will be expected to maintain and ensure a safe, organized, and efficient work environment. The materials tested in the laboratory will include a variety of thermoplastics, thermosets, coatings, adhesives, and silicone rubbers.
Duties and Responsibilities:
This list is not comprehensive but meant to represent the most common or important duties of the position. Other duties will be required and/or assigned.
  • Monitor and test the performance of current materials
  • Research new/better materials that can be used for existing products
  • Spec out and/or design materials to support the development of new products
  • Perform cost-benefit analysis of alternate materials
  • Work with different departments to consult on upcoming projects
  • Enhance existing materials with additives to improve bonding and/or overall durability
  • Evaluate surface modifications to enhance the bonding of various materials
  • Work as part of a team to source and qualify new/alternate raw material suppliers
  • Maintain and improve quality, processing efficiency, and production cost of existing compounds and materials
  • Investigate manufacturing issues, creating and implementing effective countermeasures
  • Safely and effectively execute material characterization on laboratory equipment such as tensile tester, contact angle analyzer, analytical rheometer, DSC, DMA, ATR-FTIR

Requirements
Minimum Qualifications:
  • A Master's degree in polymer science/engineering, chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, or any other related field
  • 2+ years of experience in a chemistry, polymers and/or materials lab is preferred with demonstrated knowledge of polymer characterization, formulation, and processing.
  • Highly organized with strong attention to detail
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills with a track record of multitasking
  • Interest in science with a strong sense of intellectual curiosity for understanding and solving problems

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Ph.D. in polymer science/engineering or related field
  • 1+ year of experience in a chemistry, polymers and/or materials lab is preferred with demonstrated knowledge of polymer characterization, formulation, and processing.
  • Experience in statistical data analysis and design of experiments
  • Knowledge of MiniTab® software is a plus
  • Experience in working with thermoplastics, adhesives, coatings, and/or silicone elastomers

Language Skills:
Ability to read, analyze and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures and/or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence and/or procedure manuals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, vendors, non-engineers and/or the general public.
Mathematical Skills:
Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume. Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry. Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as probability and statistical inference, and fundamentals of plane and solid geometry. Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.
Reasoning Ability:
Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form. Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations: Maintains a valid Driver's License.
Essential Job Functions: Critical features of this job are described below. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.
  • Mental: Must be able to effectively communicate with others; complete and understand complex analysis of numbers; read, analyze and interpret written materials; meet and exceed company standards; ensure compliance with company policies; respond appropriately to feedback to make improvements; maintain positive working relationships; troubleshoot and solve problems.
  • Physical: Must be able to hear and verbally communicate for hours at a time, use computer equipment, electrical and general hand tools. Moderate noise level and limited exposure to physical risk.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required: Knowledge of modern business communication, office procedures and methods. Skill to use a personal computer and various software packages such as Microsoft Office Suite. Ability to establish priorities, work independently with minimal supervision, and facilitate teamwork.
Equipment Used: Telephones, computer, other office equipment as needed, electrical and general hand tools.
Special/ Additional Requirements: Persons in this position may be required to pass a drug, alcohol, and/or criminal background check.
AMT is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.
Benefits:
  • Insurance: AMT offers major medical, dental, and vision insurance at the first of the month following 30 days of service.
  • Other Benefits: AMT offers several other voluntary benefits including hospital indemnity, critical illness, term life insurance & long term disability (company paid), among others.
  • 401k: AMT matches 100% of your contribution, up to 3% of your salary.
  • Paid Time Off (PTO): In addition to nine paid holidays, AMT provides employees with paid time off (determined by length of service), starting on day one

Other Exciting Perks!
  • Family-oriented, Positive Working Environment
  • Discretionary Yearly Raises
  • On-site Vending & Gym
  • Annual Employee Appreciation Picnic
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Referral Bonus Program
  • Employee Assistance Program

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