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Ceramic Materials Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Our associates travel literally across the globe, exploring the latest styles and innovations available in materials such as porcelain, glass, ceramic, travertine and other natural stones. With a ...

Our associates travel literally across the globe, exploring the latest styles and innovations available in materials such as porcelain, glass, ceramic, travertine and other natural stones. With a ...

Our associates travel literally across the globe, exploring the latest styles and innovations available in materials such as porcelain, glass, ceramic, travertine and other natural stones. With a ...

Our associates travel literally across the globe, exploring the latest styles and innovations available in materials such as porcelain, glass, ceramic, travertine and other natural stones. With a ...

Welder/Fitters

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$20.25 - $25.50/hr

... Assist material handler in loading round tube or formed shaft on individual fitter station ... Changes tips, ceramic cups, and electrodes in plasma torch as needed to achieve desired cutting ...

Welder/Fitter

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$20.25 - $25.50/hr

... Assist material handler in loading round tube or formed shaft on individual fitter station ... Changes tips, ceramic cups, and electrodes in plasma torch as needed to achieve desired cutting ...

New

Welder/Fitter

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$24 - $28.50/hr

... Assist material handler in loading round tube or formed shaft on individual fitter station ... Changes tips, ceramic cups, and electrodes in plasma torch as needed to achieve desired cutting ...

New

Ceramic Materials information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$27

$50

How much do ceramic materials jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for ceramic materials in Iowa is $27.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.94 and $31.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are ceramic materials?

Ceramic materials are inorganic, non-metallic solids that are made from powdered chemicals and are typically crystalline in structure. They are produced through the application of heat and are known for their hardness, brittleness, high melting points, and resistance to corrosion and wear. Examples include porcelain, bricks, tiles, glass, and advanced ceramics used in electronics and medical devices. Ceramics are used in a wide range of industries due to their unique physical and chemical properties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ceramic materials engineer?

To thrive as a Ceramic Materials Engineer, you need a strong background in materials science, chemistry, and physics, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in materials engineering or a related field. Familiarity with analytical tools such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and computer-aided design (CAD) software, as well as knowledge of industry standards, is highly valuable. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills that help drive innovation and ensure high-quality results. These skills and qualifications are crucial for developing advanced ceramic materials that meet performance, safety, and manufacturing requirements in industries like aerospace, electronics, and biomedical engineering.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in ceramic materials research and development?

Professionals in ceramic materials research and development often encounter challenges related to achieving the desired material properties, such as strength, thermal stability, and resistance to corrosion. Experimenting with new compositions and processing techniques requires patience and precision, as minor variations can significantly impact the final product. Additionally, collaborating with cross-functional teams—including engineers, manufacturers, and quality control specialists—is essential to ensure that research translates effectively into scalable, real-world applications. Adapting to rapidly evolving technologies and staying updated with industry standards is also crucial in this dynamic field.

What is the difference between Ceramic Materials vs Ceramic Engineers?

AspectCeramic MaterialsCeramic Engineers
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in materials science, ceramics, or related fieldsRequires a degree in ceramic engineering, materials science, or chemical engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing plants, R&D facilitiesDesign, develop, and test ceramic products in labs and industrial settings
Industry UsageFocuses on the development and application of ceramic materialsInvolves designing and engineering ceramic products and processes

In summary, Ceramic Materials professionals focus on the properties and development of ceramic substances, while Ceramic Engineers apply engineering principles to design and produce ceramic products. Both roles often collaborate but serve different functions within the industry.

What are popular job titles related to Ceramic Materials jobs in Iowa?

For Ceramic Materials jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Ceramic Materials job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,706 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

$70 - $95/hr

Other

Posted 18 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Contribute to teaching in the department of Art and Visual Culture, including working with students from diverse disciplinary backgrounds and abilities.

  • Maintain the ceramic studio and related equipment.

  • Engage in scholarship and research in the area of ceramics.


Job description

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:

The Department of Art and Visual Culture in the College of Design at Iowa State University is offering a full-time tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor in Ceramics starting August 16, 2027.

Qualified candidates for this studio-based position will bring an in-depth knowledge in ceramics arts, including processes, histories, and related materials and practices. Areas of expertise will include contemporary and traditional techniques embracing sculptural, functional, and installation-based approaches to making. Special attention will be given to candidates who bring an innovative and/or community-engaged approach to ceramic art, along with a critical knowledge of related materials to their teaching and creative work. Candidates with ethical and environmentally responsible approaches to their discipline and teaching are strongly encouraged to apply. The successful candidate will contribute to teaching in the department of Art and Visual Culture and have opportunities to contribute to the interdisciplinary collegiate programs in the College of Design. The position includes working with students from a broad range of disciplinary backgrounds and abilities, including graduate students. Pedagogically adaptive and innovative approaches in teaching are expected. The position responsibilities also include scholarship and research in the area of the candidate's expertise; undergraduate and graduate student advising; service on department, college and university committees; and maintenance of the ceramic studio and related equipment.

The Department of Art and Visual Culture is committed to sustaining a collegial, positive, and productive environment for each individual and the collective benefit of all. All faculty members are expected to exhibit and convey good citizenship within department, college, and university activities, interact collegially and maintain the highest standards of integrity and ethical behavior.

Required Minimum Qualifications:
  • Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree or equivalent in ceramics or related field
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Portfolio with evidence of critical approaches to ceramic-based art and craft
  • Ability to work collaboratively with other disciplines and/or communities
  • Demonstrated evidence of professional accomplishment, such as exhibition record, scholarship, and/or community-engaged practice
  • Knowledge of contemporary and traditional practices in ceramic art and related art and design disciplines
  • Experience in ethical and environmentally responsible art and design practices
  • Experience maintaining a ceramics studio and related equipment
  • Demonstrated ability to teach college-level introductory to advanced ceramics courses
Department/Program & College Description:

As a land grant and Research institution, Iowa State University upholds and advocates for the impact of creative activities, scholarship, and education both on-and off-campus. We embrace and value community and the people and knowledge that preceded the formation of our institution and that inform our current-day practices. The College of Design celebrates and builds on long-standing success as a comprehensive design school that embodies knowledge-sharing and innovation.

The Department of Art and Visual Culture exemplifies these qualities through the creativity and entrepreneurship of its community of makers, educators, and scholars. With an integrated and cross-disciplinary approach to teaching and collaborating, we are committed to contributing to the excellence of the academic community and to building a culturally vibrant environment. We are especially seeking candidates who uphold and promote this purpose and who apply the above qualities in their teaching and research practice.

Department Unit/Website:

Department of Art and Visual Culture Website: http://www.design.iastate.edu/academics/departments/art-visual-culture/

Department of Art and Visual Culture - Ceramics: http://www.design.iastate.edu/academics/departments/art-visual-culture/avc-art-studios/ceramics/

Proposed Start Date:

August 16, 2027

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

09 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Full time

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