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Textile Research Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

... textiles. You will work alongside our world-class researchers contributing to solutions in key ... D. program in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Polymer ...

New

Sweater R&D Associate

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

Research and develop new yarns for sweater applications, focusing on trend, innovation, and ... Bachelor's degree in Textile Engineering, Fiber Science, or related field. * 5+ years of experience ...

R & D Material Manager

New York, NY · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Textiles, Material Science, Textile Engineering, or related field. * 7-10 years of experience in material development, R&D, or sourcing within the home textile, apparel, or soft ...

Sweater R&D Associate

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

Research and develop new yarns for sweater applications, focusing on trend, innovation, and ... Bachelor's degree in Textile Engineering, Fiber Science, or related field. * 5+ years of experience ...

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Textile Research Scientist information

See salary details

$50.5K

$130.1K

$174K

How much do textile research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for textile research scientist in the United States is $130,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Textile Research Scientists when developing new materials?

Textile Research Scientists often encounter challenges such as balancing innovation with manufacturability, ensuring new materials meet performance and sustainability standards, and navigating the lengthy process of testing and certification. Collaborating across multidisciplinary teams—including product designers, engineers, and manufacturers—can also present communication and coordination hurdles. Staying current with rapid technological advancements and evolving industry regulations is essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Textile Research Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Textile Research Scientist, you need a strong background in textile engineering, chemistry, or materials science, often supported by an advanced degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, textile testing protocols, and data analysis software such as MATLAB or statistical tools is essential. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are key soft skills for collaborating with teams and presenting research findings. These skills ensure the development of innovative textile solutions and support advancements in material performance and sustainability.

What is the difference between Textile Research Scientist vs Textile Technologist?

AspectTextile Research ScientistTextile Technologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Textile Engineering, Chemistry, or related fieldsBachelor's degree in Textile Engineering or related discipline
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, academic institutionsManufacturing facilities, textile mills, production units
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, textile companiesTextile manufacturing companies, production plants
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in textilesUnderstanding production and process roles in textiles

The main difference between a Textile Research Scientist and a Textile Technologist lies in their focus. Textile Research Scientists primarily conduct research to develop new materials and improve textile properties, often working in labs or academic settings. In contrast, Textile Technologists focus on applying existing technologies to manufacturing processes, ensuring efficient production. Both roles require relevant degrees, but their work environments and objectives differ significantly.

What is a Textile Research Scientist?

A Textile Research Scientist is a professional who studies the properties, performance, and production of fibers, yarns, textiles, and related materials. They conduct experiments and analyze data to develop new fabrics, improve existing materials, and enhance manufacturing processes. Their work often involves collaborating with engineers, manufacturers, and designers to create innovative textile solutions for various industries, such as apparel, automotive, aerospace, and medical. Textile Research Scientists play a crucial role in advancing the science and technology of textiles to meet consumer demands and sustainability goals.
More about Textile Research Scientist jobs
Infographic showing various Textile Research Scientist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,117 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Associate Scientist - Food Chemistry

Kemin

Des Moines, IA

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Overview

Kemin Industries Food Technologies business unit is seeking an Associate Scientist to join our team of experienced researchers and help strengthen the chemistry foundation behind our ingredientinnovation initiatives.

We are seeking a scientist with a background focused on general chemistry as it applies to food systems. This role will focus on developing new ingredients, establishing SOPs, creating analytical methods and food models, and applying instrumental and organic chemistry to identify functional molecules, with an emphasis on natural sources.

This position requires someone who can balance scientific rigor with creativity, connecting deep molecular understanding to practical, commercially viable solutions. Working alongside microbiology and application scientists, this individual will anchor the team with chemistry expertise and help drive cleanlabel, affordable ingredient innovation. The ideal candidate is motivated by realworld impact and excited to translate chemistry into meaningful advancements for the food industry.

Join the Kemin Team and Transform Lives!

We are a privately held, family-owned-and-operated global biotechnology company driven by curiosity and committed to transforming the quality of life for people, pets, and the planet.

 

We create solutions that strengthen health and wellbeing, provide nutrition and immune support for pets and production animals, safeguard the planet's natural resources, and protect the global food supply chain for generations to come.

 

We supply over 500 specialty ingredients for various industries, including human and animal health and nutrition, pet food, aquaculture, nutraceutical, food technologies, crop technologies, textiles, biofuels, and animal vaccines.

 

We employ 3,500 global employees and operations in 90 countries, including manufacturing facilities in Belgium, Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Italy, San Marino, Singapore, South Africa, and the United States.

As a valued member of our team, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your financial, physical, and professional well-being:

  • Competitive Financial Package: Enjoy a rewarding salary, uncapped bonus opportunities, a 401k match program, and generous paid vacation and holidays.
  • Health and Wellness Support: Stay fit and healthy with our fitness reimbursement for the whole family, access to an on-site fitness center, a restaurant offering seasonal fresh food options, and free fresh fruit in break areas.
  • Career Development and Advancement: Unlock your potential with opportunities for growth and development throughout your entire career.
  • Continued Learning Opportunities: Grow your skills with our in-house learning platforms, offering thousands of training resources both live and online, and take advantage of tuition reimbursement for external post-secondary pursuits.
  • Service Opportunities: Make a positive impact with paid time off for service, partnerships with The World Food Programme and Habitat for Humanity, and local community initiatives.
Responsibilities
  • Develop and execute chemical assays and food model testing for ingredient evaluation.
  • Independently conduct innovative scientific experiments and translate research into practical applications.
  • Perform pilotplant operations to support process scaleup and optimization
  • Perform literature reviews and provide written summaries that are incorporated into strategy.
  • Identify and deliver commercial viable solutions to customers
  • communicate effectively and display crossfunctional collaboration to drive successful product commercialization
  • Reliable and consistently deliver highquality data and reports on time
  • Independently develop and review SOP's, research protocols and research methods; design safety procedures
  • Independently perform advanced data analysis and review other's data to provide input and insight
  • Independently, collect, interpret and document research data.
  • Generate scientific publications for internal and external publication, with guidance and review.
  • Prepare and present data analytics and research in multiple formats both internally and externally
  • Review internal publication across Kemin.
  • Identify and participate in external research collaborations
  • Contribute to strategic planning process and customer meetings.
  • Provides instruction and training to interns and junior staff.
Qualifications
  • Education
    • PhD in Food Science with 0-3 years experience highly preferred
    • Masters in Food Science with 5+ years of relevant experience
  • Must be able to work independently or on a team and have the ability to work in a fast-paced multidisciplinary environment.
  • Solid knowledge foundation in food chemistry (especially on polyphenols, phytochemicals, colorants, etc.), and hands on lab experience in food and chemical analysis.
  • Strong understanding of food ingredient functionalities, interactions, and core foodprocessing principles
  • Excellent Scientific skills in experiment design and data collection, able to maintain instruments.
  • Detail oriented, organized, prioritization skills and motivated by accomplishment.
  • Ability to understand and perform advanced statistical analysis.
  • Analytical lab skills with a strong scientific curiosity and innovative thinking.
  • Fluent in English. Excellent written and oral communication skills with ability to present ideas effectively.
  • Advanced computer knowledge (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, etc.).

We are an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed/religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship or immigration status (where applicable), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy/childbirth/breastfeeding or related conditions, age (40+), disability (including the use of a service animal), genetic information, marital status, familial or caregiver status, military or veteran status, status as a victim of domestic violence, reproductive health decisionmaking, and any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We also prohibit retaliation for raising concerns or participating in an EEO process. Applicants who need a reasonable accommodation to apply or interview can email TalentAcquisition.US@Kemin.com.

A post-offer background check and drug screen is required.  Additional pre-employment requirements may be necessary based on position.

Kemin is a drug-free and tobacco-free campus. 

      

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Employment Type: FULL_TIME