Characterization Technician information
See salary details
$12.26 - $15.52
9% of jobs
$17.67 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$15.52 - $18.77
25% of jobs
The median wage is $21.58 / hr.
$18.77 - $22.03
19% of jobs
$22.03 - $25.28
18% of jobs
$26.39 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$25.28 - $28.54
12% of jobs
$28.54 - $31.80
10% of jobs
$31.80 - $35.05
6% of jobs
$35.05 - $38.31
1% of jobs
$38.31 - $41.56
0% of jobs
$41.56 - $44.82
0% of jobs
$44.82 - $48.08
0% of jobs
How much do characterization technician jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for characterization technician in the United States is $24.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Characterization Technicians are professionals who specialize in analyzing and assessing the physical and chemical properties of materials, components, or products. They use specialized instruments and techniques to measure attributes such as composition, structure, and performance. Their work is crucial in research and development, quality control, and manufacturing environments to ensure materials meet required standards. Characterization Technicians often collaborate with engineers and scientists to interpret data and support product improvement.
To thrive as a Characterization Technician, you need a solid background in materials science, chemistry, or a related field, often supported by an associate's or bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation such as SEM, TEM, XRD, and spectroscopic tools, as well as experience with data analysis software, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills are vital for accurate reporting and collaboration. These skills ensure precise material analysis, reliable results, and smooth workflow in research or manufacturing environments.
Characterization Technicians often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting analytical instruments, maintaining sample integrity during testing, and accurately interpreting complex data. Working under tight deadlines and adhering to strict safety protocols can also be demanding, especially when managing multiple projects simultaneously. Effective communication with scientists, engineers, and other technicians is essential to ensure that test results are reliable and meet project requirements.
More about Characterization Technician jobs What job categories do people searching Characterization Technician jobs look for?
The top searched job categories for Characterization Technician jobs are: