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Polymers Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

INEOS

Instrument/Electrical Engineer

Carson, CA · On-site

INEOS Olefins & Polymers USA Interested in joining a winning team? A team whose employees are empowered to make a difference? Interested in joining a winning team? A team whose employees are ...

Ineos

Instrument/Electrical Engineer

Carson, CA

INEOS Olefins & Polymers USA Interested in joining a winning team? A team whose employees are empowered to make a difference? Interested in joining a winning team? A team whose employees are ...

Kodiak Sciences Inc

Polymer Chemist

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

Develop analytical techniques to characterize new polymers and polymeric materials by using SEC-MALS, DLS, NMR, viscosity and other relevant techniques. * Summarize and report project results ...

Kodiak Sciences Inc.

Polymer Chemist

Palo Alto, CA

Develop analytical techniques to characterize new polymers and polymeric materials by using SEC-MALS, DLS, NMR, viscosity and other relevant techniques. * Summarize and report project results ...

Kodiak Sciences Inc.

Polymer Chemist

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

Develop analytical techniques to characterize new polymers and polymeric materials by using SEC-MALS, DLS, NMR, viscosity and other relevant techniques. * Summarize and report project results ...

General Atomics

Engineer V

Poway, CA · On-site

$105K - $189K/yr

Experience with aerospace polymers. * Experience with Corrosion Prevention and Control. * Understanding of fuel contamination issues such as FAME, microorganisms, water, particulates and fuel ...

Aerotek

Assembler - 1st Shift

Irvine, CA

$22/hr

You will work with polymers and spray coating formulations, operate microscopes and specialized coating equipment, and ensure all products meet strict quality and regulatory standards. * The position ...

Aerotek

Assembler - 1st Shift

Irvine, CA

$22/hr

You will work with polymers and spray coating formulations, operate microscopes and specialized coating equipment, and ensure all products meet strict quality and regulatory standards. * The position ...

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All JobsPolymers JobsPolymers Jobs in California

Polymers information

See California salary details

$31.1K

$60.9K

$90.8K

How much do polymers jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for polymers in California is $60,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $69,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the work of a polymer?

A polymer professional designs, develops, and tests polymer materials and products, such as plastics, rubbers, and resins. They often work in laboratories or manufacturing settings, utilizing knowledge of chemistry and materials science to improve product performance and safety. Skills in laboratory techniques and understanding of chemical properties are essential for this role.

What is the difference between Polymers vs Chemical Technicians?

AspectPolymersChemical Technicians
Required CredentialsDegree in Polymer Science, Chemistry, or Chemical EngineeringAssociate's degree or diploma in Chemistry or Chemical Technology
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, manufacturing plants, R&D facilitiesLaboratories, manufacturing settings, quality control labs
Industry UsageSpecialized in polymer materials, plastics, and compositesBroader chemical industry, including pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and testing

Polymers professionals focus on the development, testing, and manufacturing of polymer-based materials, often requiring specialized knowledge in polymer chemistry. Chemical Technicians support various chemical processes across multiple industries, including polymers, but with a broader scope. While both roles work in laboratory and manufacturing environments, Polymers specialists have more targeted expertise in polymer science, whereas Chemical Technicians handle a wider range of chemical tasks.

What are polymers and what do people working in this field do?

Polymers are large molecules made up of repeating structural units, commonly known as monomers, and are essential in the production of plastics, fibers, rubbers, and many other materials. Professionals working with polymers—such as polymer scientists, engineers, or technologists—research, design, develop, and test new polymer materials for various applications. They may also improve existing products or processes, ensuring materials meet specific mechanical, chemical, or environmental requirements. Their work is vital in industries like packaging, automotive, healthcare, and electronics.

Is polymer science a good career?

Polymer science is a viable career that involves researching and developing new polymer materials for industries such as healthcare, packaging, and automotive. It typically requires a strong background in chemistry or materials science, with skills in laboratory work and data analysis. Job prospects depend on industry demand and individual qualifications, with opportunities in research, manufacturing, and quality control.

What is a polymer job?

A polymer job involves working in the field of polymer science or engineering, focusing on the development, production, and testing of polymer materials such as plastics, rubbers, and resins. Roles may include research, quality control, manufacturing, or technical support, often requiring knowledge of chemistry, materials science, and relevant tools or equipment.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in polymer research and development?

Professionals in polymer research and development often encounter challenges such as optimizing material properties for specific applications, scaling up production from laboratory to industrial levels, and ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—such as chemists, engineers, and product designers—is common to address these challenges. Staying updated with advances in polymer technology and sustainability trends is also crucial for success in this dynamic field.

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 solid background in chemistry, materials science, and polymer engineering, usually supported by at least a bachelor's degree in a related field. Experience with analytical techniques such as spectroscopy, chromatography, and rheology, as well as familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills distinguish top performers. These competencies are crucial for developing innovative polymer materials, ensuring precise research outcomes, and collaborating successfully within multidisciplinary teams.

What can you make with polymers?

Polymers are used by polymer scientists and engineers to create a wide range of products, including plastics, rubber, fibers, films, and foams. These materials are essential in manufacturing packaging, automotive parts, textiles, medical devices, and consumer goods. Working with polymers often involves understanding their properties, processing techniques, and safety standards.
What are popular job titles related to Polymers jobs in California? For Polymers jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Polymers jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Polymers jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Polymers jobs? Cities in California with the most Polymers job openings:
Polymers jobs near you
Infographic showing various Polymers job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 84% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,939 per year, or $29.3 per hour.
Director, Polymers Center of Excellence

Director, Polymers Center of Excellence

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

Irvine, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Edwards Lifesciences rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 535 rated manufacturers

Job description

Innovation starts from the heart. Our Advanced Innovation & Technology (AI&T) teams harness the imagination, courage, and resourcefulness to think beyond what's currently possible, and create solutions for patients many years into the future. If you're an early-stage innovator, then Edwards AI&T team is the place for you to take the next steps in your career. We'll give you the tools and resources you need to create groundbreaking innovations that shape the future of structural heart technology.
How you will make an impact:
We are looking for a strong leader with a history of break-through innovations in polymeric biomaterials used for medical devices application. The leader must be passionate about solving customer and patient unmet needs with a demonstrated focus on staff development, motivation, and coaching.
  • Plan and direct project activities dedicated to solving the complex challenges of structural heart diseases with large scale or significant business impact. Maintain accountability for successful completion of all project deliverables to the businesses and develop project plans, schedule, and scope. Lead in identifying risk, developing mitigation strategies, alternative solutions, resolving issues, etc. in collaboration with cross functional groups
  • Manage supervisors, managers, and/or experienced professionals and/or oversee the work of the Polymers Center of Excellence (CoE) and have some budgetary responsibilities. Develop a robust talent development plan in alignment with functional growth strategies of the department
  • Lead cross-functional and/or departmental groups to develop and provide polymers, coatings, biomaterials, and/or design recommendations that integrate into complex component(s) or product(s)
  • Lead efforts to optimize CoE related processes and systems by assessing business needs and developing, proposing and implementing technology solution options
  • Lead by example, ~50% of time will require hands-on work in the lab alongside various technical staff

What you'll need (Required):
  • Bachelor's Degree in related field related experience in engineering and skill levels exceeding the requirements of the previous level
  • Demonstrated track record in management of technical and/or engineering disciplines
  • Expert understanding of scientific principles while identifying applications of functional knowledge and existing methodologies to complex problems within polymers, coatings, and biomaterials.
  • Deep polymer science technical expertise in more than one area of coatings, polymer processing, polymer characterization and structure property relationships, surface modification, and material selection.
  • Knowledge and experience of using Polymer Structure-Property Relationship for problem solving
  • Experience in converting polymers and/or coatings from ideas to bench top prototypes to commercial applications

What else we look for (Preferred):
  • Ph.D. in Polymer Science and Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, or Biomaterials strongly preferred
  • Experience working in a regulated industry
  • Proven successful project management leadership skills
  • Proven expertise in both Microsoft Office Suite and related systems
  • Willingness to utilize, develop, and challenge AI related solutions and systems
  • Excellent problem-solving, organizational, analytical and critical thinking skills including high discretion/judgment in decision making
  • Excellent documentation and communication skills and interpersonal relationship skills including negotiating and relationship management skills with ability to drive achievement of objectives
  • Financial acumen as it relates to building and maintaining an R&D budget
  • Demonstrated ability to manage one or more teams and provide coaching and feedback, including responsibility for all employee actions including hire/fire authority and partnering with HR on all aspects of employee relations
  • Provide leadership, direction, and influence to cross-functional partners, business units, and may engage with and influence senior management
  • Ability to develop and integrate metrics into the projects and operations that clearly demonstrate the value of the CoE to the business
  • Ability to interact professionally with all organizational levels and proactively escalate issues to appropriate levels of management in the organization
  • Ability to work and excel within a fast paced, dynamic, and constantly changing work environment
  • Frequently interacts with internal and external management and senior-level customer representatives concerning projects, operational decisions, scheduling requirements, and/or contractual clarifications
  • Lead briefings and technical meetings for internal and external representatives
  • Develop peer, cross functional and cross business relationships to maximize best practice sharing and team effectiveness.
  • Support and solicit input from team members at all levels
  • Action-oriented, results driven self-starter unafraid of learning fast
  • Adhere to all company rules and requirements (e.g., pandemic protocols, Environmental Health & Safety rules) and take adequate control measures in preventing injuries to themselves and others as well as to the protection of environment and prevention of pollution under their span of influence/control

Aligning our overall business objectives with performance, we offer competitive salaries, performance-based incentives, and a wide variety of benefits programs to address the diverse individual needs of our employees and their families.
For California (CA), the base pay range for this position is $159,000 to $226,000 (highly experienced).
The pay for the successful candidate will depend on various factors (e.g., qualifications, education, prior experience). Applications will be accepted while this position is posted on our Careers website.
Edwards is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer including protected Veterans and individuals with disabilities.
COVID Vaccination Requirement
Edwards is committed to protecting our vulnerable patients and the healthcare providers who are treating them. As such, all patient-facing and in-hospital positions require COVID-19 vaccination. If hired into a covered role, as a condition of employment, you will be required to submit proof that you have been vaccinated for COVID-19, unless you request and are granted a medical or religious accommodation for exemption from the vaccination requirement. This vaccination requirement does not apply in locations where it is prohibited by law to impose vaccination.

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About Edwards Lifesciences

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Edwards Lifesciences is the global leader in patient-focused medical innovations for structural heart disease, as well as critical care and surgical monitoring. Driven by a passion to help patients, the company collaborates with the world's leading clinicians and researchers to address unmet healthcare needs, working to improve patient outcomes and enhance lives. Headquartered in Irvine, California, Edwards Lifesciences has extensive operations in North America, Europe, Japan, Latin America and Asia and currently employs over 15,000 individuals worldwide. For us, helping patients is not a slogan - it's our life's work. From developing devices that replace or repair a diseased heart valve to creating new technologies that monitor vital signs in the critical care setting, we focus on helping patients regain and improve the quality of their life.

Industry

Medical equipment and supplies manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Irvine, CA, US

Year founded

1958

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