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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 · 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 ...

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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 Aug 17, 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 a polymer and what does a polymer scientist 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.

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

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 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 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.

Is polymer technology a good career?

Polymer technology is a viable career path for those interested in materials science, chemical engineering, and manufacturing. It involves developing and improving polymer-based products, often requiring knowledge of chemistry, process engineering, and laboratory skills. The field offers opportunities in industries such as plastics, automotive, healthcare, and packaging, with potential for growth and specialization.

What degree do you need to be a polymers engineer?

Polymers engineers typically need a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, materials science, polymer science, or a related field. Advanced roles may require a master's degree or higher, along with knowledge of polymer processing, testing, and industry 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 74% In-person, and 26% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $60,939 per year, or $29.3 per hour.

2026 PhD Residency - Chemistry - Organic Synthesis of Polymers and Small Molecules (Early Stage Proj

X, the moonshot factory

Mountain View, CA • On-site

$109K - $147K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 hours ago

Job description

2 0 2 6 P h D R e s i d e n c y - C h e m i s t r y - O r g a n i c S y n t h e s i s o f P o l y m e r s a n d S m a l l M o l e c u l e s ( E a r l y S t a g e P r o j e c t )
Internship Mountain View, CA
We are looking for an exceptional PhD student with expertise in the organic synthesis of polymers and small molecules. Candidates should have substantial hands-on experience in organic synthesis, polymer synthesis, and molecular characterization using HPLC, LC-MS, GCMS, and NMR in a wet-lab setting. The ideal candidate will also have familiarity with the electrochemical evaluation of small molecules and their integration into broader polymer systems.
In this role, you will synthesize new polymers and small molecules and evaluate them electrochemically. You will be tasked with synthesizing various polymer frameworks that perform optimally while building robust chromatography, spectroscopy and electrochemical assays to measure success.
You will be a part of X's Design Kitchen, a world-class team of builders and dreamers, and work closely with other groups involving the frontiers of machine learning. If you are motivated by making the world a radically better place through computation and biology, and want to be part of an inclusive team with diverse mindsets and backgrounds that makes this happen - then this might just be the role for you.
How you will make 10x impact:
  • Contribute to the design and implementation of synthetic chemistry pathways to generate novel polymers and small molecules..
  • Measure and optimize the electrochemical traits of newly designed polymer systems.
  • Design, build, and implement robust analytical chemistry assays (e.g., LC-MS) to measure success within a larger design-build-test-learn workflow.
  • Expand automation workflows to streamline chemical synthesis, testing, and analytical assays.
  • Work cross-functionally with experts in multiple disciplines at X and Google.
  • Have fun!

This project aims to push the limits of science and modeling as we know them and to prove how ML can radically accelerate our understanding of the world
  • Location: X's headquarters in Mountain View, CA
  • Start Date(s): Year-round rolling basis
  • Duration: a flexible 4 mo. to 1 year program based on project team needs and your availability

Throughout your AI Residency you can expect:
  • To be embedded into one of our confidential or public X projects
  • To get paid competitively and receive benefits
  • To be a part of a lively community of AI and ML Residents
  • To attend tech-talks with AI leaders from across X

What you should have:
  • Currently enrolled in a PhD program in the chemical or biological sciences (e.g., Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biophysics, Bioengineering) with a strong track record of accomplishment.
  • Hands-on experience with organic synthesis, particularly the design and creation of electrochemically reactive small molecules and polymers.
  • Experience with electrochemical measurements and the evaluation of electroactive compounds.
  • Proven ability to design and validate robust analytical assays (e.g., LC-QTOF, GC-MS, UV Spectroscopy, NMR).
  • Strong experience with independently-directed lab research.
  • Proficiency with Python.
  • Experience in polymer chemistry, specifically synthesizing, characterizing, or modifying polymers for sensing applications.

It'd be great if you also had these:
  • A strong publication record indicating expertise in modern organic synthesis and analytical techniques.
  • Demonstrated ability to write code to automate workflows spanning chemical design, and analytical testing.
  • Previous experience working directly with electrocatalysis, redox polymers, or the development of electrochemical sensors.
  • Familiarity with applying computational models or machine learning techniques to chemical design and optimization.

Additional public information :
https://www.wired.com/video/watch/astro-teller-captain-of-moonshots-at-x-speaks-at-wired25
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/videos/2019-10-10/alphabet-x-s-astro-teller-on-bloomberg-studio-1-0-video
The US base salary range for this position is $109,000 - $147,000+ benefits. Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your location during the hiring process.
Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and do not include benefits.
An Equal Opportunity Workplace
At X, we don't just accept difference - we celebrate it, we support it, and we thrive on it for the benefit of our employees, our products and our community. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements.
If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please contact us at x-accommodation-request@x.team .

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