Research & Development Scientist – Polymer Chemistry

Penmac Staffing is recruiting a Research & Development Scientist to join a global R&D team at a leading materials science company. This is an opportunity to play a key role in developing next-generation polymer solutions, driving innovation from concept to commercialization.

We are looking for a highly motivated, hands-on scientist with a strong background in polymer chemistry and material science, capable of leading technical programs and working cross-functionally to solve complex challenges.

Location: Spartanburg, SC

Compensation: Salary ranges from $95,000-110,000 depending on experience

Job Type: Full-Time | On-Site

Polymer Innovation & Development

Key Responsibilities of the Research and Development Scientist

• Lead the polymer design process, rapidly advancing from concept to final formulation.
• Apply organic and polymer chemistry principles to develop high-performance materials.
• Drive efficient scale-up from laboratory to pilot plant to full production.
  
  

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Strategy

• Work closely with technical, commercial, and engineering teams to identify market needs and develop tailored solutions.
• Identify emerging technologies and industry trends, leveraging external partnerships where applicable.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and knowledge-sharing within the R&D team.
  
  

Technical Research & Data Analysis

• Design and execute experiments, ensuring efficient data collection and analysis.
• Utilize advanced analytical techniques such as rheology, DSC, GC/LC, GPC, and NMR for polymer characterization.
• Translate structure-property relationships into practical, scalable solutions.
  
  

Safety, Compliance & Best Practices

• Maintain a strong commitment to laboratory safety and EH&S protocols.
• Identify and mitigate chemical and physical hazards in organic synthesis and polymer research.
  
  

Qualifications & Skills

• Ph.D. in Organic or Polymer Chemistry and 1-2 years of industry experience strongly preferred.
• Expertise in synthetic chemistry, organometallic catalysis, and polymerization mechanisms.
• Hands-on experience with polymer characterization and material response analysis.
• Track record of innovation, problem-solving, and commercialization success.
• Proficiency in statistical tools and data-driven decision-making.
• Strong communication, presentation, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to adapt quickly to new insights, challenges, and technologies.
  
  

Why Join This Team?

• Work on cutting-edge polymer technology with a global leader in materials science.
• Be part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and technical excellence.
• Gain exposure to full lifecycle product development, from lab research to market launch.
• Competitive compensation, career growth, and a supportive R&D environment.
  
  

Ready to take the next step in your R&D career? Apply online today!

Questions? Call Penmac Staffing at 864-576-7590.

About Penmac Staffing

Penmac has been placing people first since 1988 and has served South Carolina since 2010. Penmac is a premier supplier of staffing and human resource services. We provide free, fast, and friendly help finding a job that matches your skills and schedule. We offer temporary, temp-to-hire, long-term, and direct hire job opportunities. Penmac, America’s largest 100% employee-owned staffing company, operates 30 offices in seven states. Equal Opportunity Employer