Sr. Polymer Chemist

Job Title:

Senior Polymer Chemist (R D) Job Description The Senior Polymer Chemist is a pivotal role responsible for designing, synthesizing, and developing advanced high-performance polymer materials. This position involves proposing novel polymer structures, executing synthesis and polymerization in an industrial laboratory, and identifying material solutions to enhance targeted properties and address 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 with 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 hands-on experience in polymer synthesis, polymerization techniques, and polymer processing concepts. 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 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. 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 13, 2026. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.