ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Material Engineer Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Rolls-Royce

Materials Specialist

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$62K - $101K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physics, or Chemistry * This is an entry level role suitable for ... Evaluating technical drawings for material specification accuracy * Enthusiasm for low-maturity ...

Rolls-Royce

Materials Specialist

Indianapolis, IN · Hybrid

$62K - $101K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physics, or Chemistry * This is an entry level role suitable for ... Evaluating technical drawings for material specification accuracy * Enthusiasm for low-maturity ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsEntry Level Material Engineer JobsEntry Level Material Engineer Jobs in Indiana

Entry Level Material Engineer information

See Indiana salary details

$26.9K

$59.8K

$93.8K

How much do entry level material engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level material engineer in Indiana is $59,845.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,600.00 and $67,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level material engineer do?

An entry level material engineer assists in developing, testing, and evaluating materials used in manufacturing and product design. Their responsibilities often include analyzing material properties, conducting experiments in labs, preparing technical reports, and supporting senior engineers on various projects. They may also help troubleshoot material failures and recommend improvements. This role provides foundational experience in materials science and engineering principles, often working under supervision while gaining practical skills.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, often through senior roles, bonuses, or stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes professional certifications or advanced degrees.

Is 40 too late to be an engineer?

Entry level material engineers can start at age 40 or later, as the field values skills, education, and experience over age. Many engineers successfully transition careers or pursue additional training, certifications, or degrees to enter the profession at any age. Age is generally not a barrier if the candidate has relevant knowledge and a strong interest in materials science and engineering principles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Material Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Material Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science or engineering, typically with a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with materials characterization tools (such as SEM, XRD), CAD software, and common lab testing protocols is often required. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with colleagues and solve complex problems. These competencies ensure you can contribute to developing and improving materials that meet technical and project requirements.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Most entry-level material engineers do not earn $500,000 annually. High salaries in engineering typically occur at senior levels, in executive roles, or within specialized fields such as petroleum or aerospace engineering, often requiring extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities.

What are some typical projects and responsibilities for an entry-level material engineer in their first year?

As an entry-level material engineer, you will often work on tasks like conducting materials testing, analyzing data, assisting with the development of prototypes, and preparing technical documentation. You'll likely collaborate closely with senior engineers, quality control teams, and manufacturing staff to support ongoing projects. It's common to be involved in troubleshooting material-related issues and participating in team meetings to discuss project progress and challenges. This role provides a solid foundation for learning industry standards and gaining hands-on experience with different materials and processes.

What is the difference between Entry Level Material Engineer vs Entry Level Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Material EngineerEntry Level Mechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Materials Science, Metallurgy, or related fieldBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, manufacturing plants, R&D facilitiesDesign offices, manufacturing plants, testing labs
Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, electronics, manufacturingAutomotive, aerospace, energy, manufacturing
Common Search IntentEntry Level Material Engineer roles, job requirements, career pathEntry Level Mechanical Engineer roles, job duties, career options

Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree in their respective fields and involve working in manufacturing or R&D environments. While Material Engineers focus on developing and testing materials, Mechanical Engineers design and analyze mechanical systems. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles based on their skills and interests.

Is there a demand for material engineers?

Material engineers are in demand across industries such as aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing due to ongoing innovations in materials and technology. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as companies seek to develop stronger, lighter, and more sustainable materials, often requiring knowledge of CAD software and materials testing. Entry-level positions are available for those with relevant education and certifications in materials science or engineering.
Entry Level Material Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Material Engineer job openings in Indiana as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,845 per year, or $28.8 per hour.
Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

RFA Engineering

Lafayette, IN • On-site

$65K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an Entry Level candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.
This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.
Entry Level Mechanical Engineer
The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff in the development of large diesel or gas engine sub-systems. Work will include product design, product improvement, cost reduction, and product health in large engine systems. The work will be highly collaborative with both internal customers and external suppliers.
Responsibilities
  • Participate in design, development, build, and validation related to diesel and natural gas engines.
  • Collaborate with design teams to develop new engine systems used in Oil and Gas applications.
  • Work with validation and system engineers to ensure completion of FMEAs and activities needed to fully validate engine designs.
  • Support engine performance development and validation in test cells
  • Improve and maintain Bill of Material (BOM) tracking tool for upcoming, current, and field test engines.
  • Coordinate the completion of Virtual Design Review Audits (VDRAs) for NPI proto and pilot builds.
  • Responsible for prove design parts management, ordering, and shipping to support prototype builds, lab or field testing.
  • Track and resolve issues discovered during build and test processes.
  • Manage releasing and procurement status for new component designs.
  • Create and update Teamcenter engine arrangement (ARC) models.
  • Work with factory technicians to assemble prototype and field follow engines.
  • Coordinate virtual & on engine safety and serviceability audits to be completed and complete the appropriate follow-up activities that result.
  • Collaborate with other groups (Engineering, Marketing, Purchasing, etc.) as necessary.
  • Travel to supplier or customer sites pending project need (up to ~5%)

Requirements
  • BSME, BSMET or equivalent degree with experience.
  • Entry level candidates and experienced candidates will be considered.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude demonstrated through work experience or hobbies.
  • Excellent communication both written and verbal.
  • Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and commitments.
  • Strong analytical, problem solving and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment.
  • Ability to travel (less than 10% of time).

Desired Attributes
  • Experience with the APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) process.
  • Experience in 3-D Modeling Software; Creo (Pro/Engineer) experience.
  • Previous experience with Teamcenter or other PDM software.
  • Experience with manufacturing processes.
  • Design experience or exposure to off-road mobile equipment or engines.
  • Experience with shop or factory support.
  • Desire to work in an engineering environment focusing on robust & cost effective design.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $65,000-$78,000 - Commensurate with experience
About RFA Engineering
RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits
  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • Health Savings Account
  • TelaDoc: Virtual Health Care
  • Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid / Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Supplemental Short-Term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Apply