Polymer Chemist

Job Title:

Polymer Chemist Job Description The Polymer Chemist is a key technical contributor responsible for designing, synthesizing, and developing advanced high-performance polymer materials. This role involves proposing novel polymer structures, executing synthesis and polymerization in an industrial laboratory environment, and identifying material solutions that enhance targeted properties while addressing existing performance gaps. Responsibilities Design and conduct synthesis, purification, and characterization of monomers and polymers with targeted functions and properties. Propose polymer and material designs aligned to defined property requirements and application needs. Execute polymerization and post-polymerization modifications; evaluate structure-property relationships. Maintain accurate laboratory records and write clear procedures, reports, and data summaries. Collaborate with scientists and cross-functional partners to develop comprehensive technical solutions. Contribute to intellectual property activities, including invention disclosures, prior art review support, and general patent documentation. Essential Skills Strong foundation in organic and polymer chemistry with demonstrated hands-on polymer synthesis experience. Experience with polymerization techniques and polymer processing concepts. Hands-on analytical characterization experience, including NMR, GPC/SEC, FTIR, HPLC, and LCMS. Broad purification experience including liquid-liquid extraction, recrystallization, fractional precipitation/reprecipitation, and column chromatography. Strong safety mindset with the ability to identify hazards in new processes and recommend risk-reducing procedures. Ability to work independently, manage multiple experiments, and meet aggressive timelines.

Strong documentation discipline:

detailed lab notebooks, unambiguous procedures, and clear technical reports. Ability to communicate promptly in English during safety-critical tasks or emergencies. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience in at least one of the following: controlled/"living" polymerizations, polymer post-modification reactions, surface chemistry and functionalization, high impact publications and/or patents. PhD with 2+ years relevant experience, or MS with 4+ years relevant experience, or BS with 5+ years relevant experience. Minimum of 2 years of R D experience preferred. Proficient with Windows and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams). Comfortable using web tools, online forms, and cloud storage (SharePoint/OneDrive). Efficient data entry and spreadsheet handling; basic cybersecurity awareness. Work Environment Work is performed in an office and laboratory environment. The role may require lifting/carrying up to 25 pounds. Regular use of hands and fingers is needed to operate computers, laboratory equipment, and office devices. The position requires the ability to stand, walk, sit, reach, bend, kneel, crouch, or crawl as needed. Vision requirements include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. Job Type & Location This is a Permanent position based out of Oceanside, CA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $120000.00 - $130000.00/yr. Company matched 401(K) Plan and Roth 401(K) Plan Medical-dental-vision and life insurance Paid short and long-term disability Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care needs A wellness room on site Tuition reimbursement Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Oceanside,CA. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Mar 23, 2026. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through: Hiring diverse talent Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes Ensuring growth opportunities for our people Actalent is an equal opportunity employer. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we've helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day. Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.