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Polymer Synthesis Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... synthesis of functionalized resins used in chromatography columns (HPLC). Involves working in a ... Perform standard polymer chemistry techniques such as ATRP, grafting, and polymerization.

Core Responsibilities 1. Polymer Chemistry Leadership (Primary Focus) * Lead design and execution of polyamide synthesis reactions , including batch and continuous polymerization systems. * Develop ...

Core Responsibilities 1. Polymer Chemistry Leadership (Primary Focus) * Lead design and execution of polyamide synthesis reactions , including batch and continuous polymerization systems. * Develop ...

Candidates getting consideration will have strong fundamentals in interdisciplinary polymer chemistry with particular expertise in synthesis, formulation and characterization of novel polymers; will ...

Candidates getting consideration will have strong fundamentals in interdisciplinary polymer chemistry with particular expertise in synthesis, formulation and characterization of novel polymers; will ...

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Polymer Synthesis information

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$50.5K

$89.3K

$155K

How much do polymer synthesis jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer synthesis in the United States is $89,329.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is polymer synthesis?

Polymer synthesis is the process of creating polymers, which are large molecules made up of repeating structural units called monomers. This process can involve a variety of chemical reactions, such as addition and condensation polymerization, to combine small molecules into long chains or networks. Polymer synthesis is fundamental in producing materials like plastics, rubbers, fibers, and resins, which are used in countless everyday products. Professionals working in polymer synthesis often focus on designing new materials with specific physical and chemical properties for industrial, medical, or technological applications.

What skills and qualifications are needed for polymer synthesis?

To thrive as a Polymer Synthesis Specialist, you need a solid background in organic and polymer chemistry, typically with at least a bachelor's or master's degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory techniques, analytical instrumentation (such as NMR, GPC, FTIR), and safety protocols is critical, and certifications in laboratory safety may be beneficial. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in research and collaborative environments. These competencies ensure accurate synthesis, effective troubleshooting, and the successful development of innovative polymer materials.

What challenges do professionals in polymer synthesis face, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in Polymer Synthesis often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise reaction conditions, ensuring product purity, and scaling up from laboratory to industrial production. Managing these challenges requires strong attention to detail, familiarity with advanced analytical techniques, and effective communication with cross-functional teams like process engineers and quality assurance. Staying updated on the latest developments in polymer chemistry and regularly participating in training can also help address technical issues more efficiently.

What is the difference between Polymer Synthesis vs Polymer Characterization?

AspectPolymer SynthesisPolymer Characterization
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials ScienceBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Materials Science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLaboratories focused on chemical reactions and material developmentLaboratories analyzing material properties and structure
Industry UsageDeveloping new polymers and materialsAssessing properties and quality of polymers
Common Search/ComparisonPolymer Synthesis vs Polymer Characterization

Polymer Synthesis involves creating new polymers through chemical reactions, focusing on developing materials with specific properties. Polymer Characterization, on the other hand, analyzes the properties and structure of existing polymers to ensure quality and performance. Both roles often require similar educational backgrounds but serve different stages in polymer development and testing.

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What cities are hiring for Polymer Synthesis jobs?

Cities with the most Polymer Synthesis job openings:

What states have the most Polymer Synthesis jobs?

States with the most job openings for Polymer Synthesis jobs include:

Infographic showing various Polymer Synthesis job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 65% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 30% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,329 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

Synthetic Chemist with Security Clearance

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Description Are you motivated by conceiving creative solutions to tough problems? Are you searching for a role that leads to significant real-world impacts by applying your strengths in chemistry? Are you passionate about collaborating with outstanding scientists and engineers to develop your own skills while contributing to critical challenges? If so, we are looking for someone like you to join our team at APL. We are seeking an organic chemist to help develop solutions to the complex problems that we take on through chemical synthesis and characterization. You will apply your strong background in chemistry to develop solutions for the government's challenging problems. We need an ambitious and dedicated colleague who is eager to take a leadership and mentorship role and contribute to laboratory research. You will have the opportunity to work across a wide-range of research domains including synthetic chemistry, polymer science, catalysis, materials science, and more. In our group, your research will span fields, from synthesis of stimuli-responsive polymers to inorganic coatings for thermal management; from adhesives, coatings, and ink technologies, to electrochemistry and catalysis. We enable and encourage our team members to generate their own research ideas and publish their findings. At APL, we are a hardworking, multidisciplinary team that is committed to solving challenging problems while embracing risk with the goal of realizing creative solutions. Our team is passionate about building advanced prototypes that will define the future of chemical sciences. We strive to foster a collaborative environment with world-class expertise that achieves game-changing impact. Our APL team values integrity and innovative ideas that will ensure our nation's preeminence in the 21st century. As a chemist on our team... * Your primary responsibility will be to perform experiments at the direction of a project manager and assist with the development of new materials via chemical synthesis, characterization, and performance testing, both in the lab and in the field.
* You will perform detailed data analyses and explain characterization results.
* You will document and present technical work internally and externally.
* You will get the chance to work on projects both independently and as part of a team. * You will have the opportunity to publish your research and present at conferences. Qualifications You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you... * You possess a B.S. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
* You have 2+ years of non-academic research experience.
* You have demonstrable research experience in a laboratory environment. * You have a background in molecular synthesis, spectroscopy, and experimental design.
* You are familiar with nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, and/or mass spectrometry. * You have experience working as member of a collaborative team. * You are comfortable communicating research findings in various settings. * You are willing and able to carry out laboratory research and travel for field testing, sponsor visits, conference attendance, and presentations.
* You are able to obtain a Secret level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Security clearance eligibility requires you to be a U.S. citizen.
You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you... * You have M.A. in organic chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field.
* You have 5+ years of research experience.
* You are proficient in catalysis, air-free synthesis, electrochemistry, and/or polymer synthesis and characterization. * You have published research in peer-reviewed journals. About Us Why Work at APL? The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates. At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact . The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Minimum Rate $85,000 Annually Maximum Rate $195,000 Annually