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Polymer Technologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... foundational technologies that make our robots lighter, stronger, safer, and more capable. The ... You will lead a polymer chemistry-driven research and development efforts focused on novel polymer ...

The company's technology is based on a groundbreaking invention by a dynamic multidisciplinary team ... D. polymer chemist to design, synthesize and characterize innovative oligomeric/polymeric ...

Interface with suppliers to evaluate new raw materials and technologies * Provide technical input ... D. in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, or related field, with deep experience in elastomer ...

Senior Polymer Chemist

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

... technology for durable consumer goods. Salary: $115,000.00 - $130,000.00 per year LOCATION ... Fullerton, CA (CA CANDIDATES ONLY) Polymer Chemist will report to our Head of R&D and will be ...

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Polymer Technologist information

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$12

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$63

How much do polymer technologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for polymer technologist in the United States is $33.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $40.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a polymer technologist?

Polymer Technologists are professionals who specialize in the study, development, processing, and testing of polymers and plastics. They work to create new polymer materials, improve existing products, and solve technical problems related to plastics and other polymers. Their expertise is applied across various industries, such as automotive, packaging, electronics, and healthcare. Responsibilities may include research and development, quality control, and ensuring that products meet regulatory standards. A background in chemistry, materials science, or chemical engineering is typically required for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a polymer technologist?

To thrive as a Polymer Technologist, you need a solid background in polymer chemistry, material science, and laboratory techniques, usually supported by a degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with analytical instruments like FTIR, DSC, TGA, and experience with polymer processing equipment are commonly required, along with knowledge of relevant safety standards. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities set candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure the development, testing, and improvement of polymer materials meet industry standards and drive innovation in product applications.

What are some common challenges faced by polymer technologists when developing new materials, and how are these typically addressed?

Polymer Technologists often encounter challenges such as achieving the desired balance between material properties (like strength, flexibility, and chemical resistance) and manufacturability. They may also need to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and address issues related to material costs or scalability. These challenges are typically managed through iterative testing, close collaboration with R&D, production, and quality assurance teams, and staying current with advancements in polymer science. Problem-solving and adaptability are key, as solutions often require innovative thinking and cross-disciplinary teamwork.
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What states have the most Polymer Technologist jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Polymer Technologist jobs?

For Polymer Technologist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Polymer Technologist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 48% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,664 per year, or $33 per hour.

Senior Scientist - Polymer Mechanics-Corning, New York

Hammondsport, NY

$77K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Corning rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 129 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 548 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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