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Polymer Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

$122 - $266/hr

Support the research, design, development, and fabrication of advanced polymer and composite structures for defense and industrial applications * Perform and support fabrication, characterization ...

New

$90 - $130/hr

You'll support development, characterization, and scale-up work across cell chemistry, polymer encapsulation, and barrier systems - running experiments, building process workflows, and translating ...

$120 - $180/hr

PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, or Chemical Engineering, ideally familiar with PET, Spandex, Cotton, Dyes, Pigments * 5+ years of hands-on experimental chemistry experience (PhD years ...

$20/hr

The Oven Process Technician (polymer baking) is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring industrial ovens to bake or sinter polymer materials according to defined recipes and process ...

$85 - $120/hr

... Polymer Engineering, or a closely related technical area * - Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work through unclear or evolving customer requirements * - A ...

Candidates with expertise in materials science and/or polymer chemistry are especially encouraged to apply. The faculty candidate will be expected to establish a viable research program, supported by ...

Candidates with expertise in materials science and/or polymer chemistry are especially encouraged to apply. The faculty candidate will be expected to establish a viable research program, supported by ...

New

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Production Operator

Louisville, KY ยท On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Operate one or more specialized polymer processing machines (such as grinders, pulverizers, blenders, or pelletizers) to precise production specifications on a continuous basis. * Lift and secure ...

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Polymer information

See Kentucky salary details

$43.9K

$77.6K

$134.6K

How much do polymer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymer in Kentucky is $77,585.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,800.00 and $99,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a polymer?

A Polymer job typically involves working with synthetic or natural polymers in research, development, production, or quality control. Professionals in this field may be chemists, engineers, or technicians who design, test, and optimize polymer materials for various applications, such as plastics, coatings, adhesives, and composites. Their work is essential in industries like automotive, healthcare, packaging, and electronics. Responsibilities may include formulating new materials, improving existing products, and ensuring compliance with industry standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the polymer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Polymer Scientist or Engineer, a strong background in chemistry, materials science, or chemical engineering is essential, often supported by a relevant degree or advanced certification. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, polymer synthesis techniques, and analytical tools such as FTIR, DSC, or GPC is typically required. Excellent problem-solving skills, creativity, and strong collaboration abilities help individuals excel in both research and industrial settings. Mastering these skills and qualifications ensures innovation, safe material design, and successful project outcomes in the competitive field of polymer science.

What are the typical career advancement paths for professionals in polymer science or engineering roles?

Polymer professionals often start in research, product development, or quality control positions and can advance to senior scientist, project manager, or technical leader roles as they gain experience. With additional education or specialized training, opportunities in management, consulting, or regulatory affairs are also common. Many companies support professional development through conferences, certifications, and advanced degrees, facilitating growth into leadership positions. Joining multidisciplinary teams or working on high-impact projects can further accelerate career progression, making this field dynamic and full of opportunities for advancement.

Is polymer science a good career?

Polymer science is a specialized field focused on the development and application of polymer materials, often requiring a background in chemistry or materials science. Careers in this area can offer opportunities in research, manufacturing, and product development, with roles typically involving laboratory work and technical skills. Job prospects depend on industry demand and individual qualifications, with some positions requiring advanced degrees or certifications.

What are popular job titles related to Polymer jobs in Kentucky?

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

What job categories do people searching Polymer jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Polymer jobs in Kentucky are:

Infographic showing various Polymer job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,585 per year, or $37.3 per hour.

Materials Engineer

Lexington, KY โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a self-driven, initiative-taking, hands-on, recycled polymer expert with a background in polypropylene and polyethylene. The purchased recycled material is used in blending to specific properties. The blended material is used to injection mold large products. The candidate must have a thorough understanding of the relationship between the incoming properties of the recycled polymers and the properties of the blended polymers related to the finished part properties.



Responsibilities



  • Support the evaluation of purchased recycled materials
  • Recommend recycled materials to purchase based upon properties and costs
  • Support the daily blending of recycled and virgin materials for the Materials Processing Department
  • Support the daily decision-making of the blended materials and recommend where they should be used
  • Support the optimal blend of wide virgin resin usage with prime materials in the products
  • Maximize the material cost savings while ensuring the final product material specifications are being met
  • Partner with Materials Processing to interpret the test results and recommend the best course of action
  • Work with the Materials group to establish process controls for materials and processing
  • Correlation of polymer blend/formulation with observed properties
  • Identify equipment needs for effective controls
  • Work with in-house ISO/IEC 17025 accredited polymer lab
  • Control and recommend enhancements to the Blendsheet software application
  • Provide technical recycled expertise
  • Available during evenings / weekends for issues that would hold up production.


Qualifications



  • At least 10 years’ experience in recycled PP and PE
  • Prefer degree in Material Science, Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field
  • Laboratory research experience with ASTM specimen molding and testing using FTIR, DSC, TGA, plastometer, tensile, flexural, and notched Izod is required


Required Skills



  • A strong team player with a positive and professional attitude, and a strong bias for solving problems
  • In-depth knowledge of the latest technologies on recycled material testing and processing
  • Demonstrated work experience in plastic injection molding
  • Demonstrated teamwork and collaboration skills
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Good verbal and written communication skills, as well as presentation skills
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
  • Effective written and oral communication skills
  • Demonstrated ability to lead and influence peers
  • Must be willing to work in the Lexington, KY area
  • Experience in Polyethylene, Polypropylene, HDPE, LLDPE, LDPE, polyolefins or thermoplastics would be a plus.





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