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Entry Level Material Science Engineering Jobs in Michigan

We seek candidates with a PhD in Physics, Material Science, Electrical Engineering or related fields. Candidates must have experimental hands-on skills in lasers, optics design, solid state physics ...

Product Design Engineer - Cockpit

Auburn Hills, MI

$122.10K - $146.70K/yr

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent from an ABET accredited university or equivalent (Material Science/ Civil Engineering/ Aerospace) Engineering degree All experience levels ...

Intern

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Pursuing a BS degree in materials science engineering, chemical engineering, chemistry, with a concentration in polymers or coatings preferred. * Ideal candidate will have at least one year relevant ...

Materials Engineering Intern

Livonia, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Exposure to diverse material technology types including polymers, metals, tribology, electronics ... Science) with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. * Advanced reading, mathematical, written and verbal ...

Intern

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Pursuing a BS degree in materials science engineering, chemical engineering, chemistry, with a concentration in polymers or coatings preferred. * Ideal candidate will have at least one year relevant ...

Materials Engineering Intern

Livonia, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Exposure to diverse material technology types including polymers, metals, tribology, electronics ... Science) with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. * Advanced reading, mathematical, written and verbal ...

Research Engineer

Dearborn, MI · Hybrid

$99.10K - $166.20K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Material Science and Engineering or Computer Science and Engineering 2+ years of experience in industry and graduate study developing and applying skills ...

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Entry Level Material Science Engineering information

See Michigan salary details

$11

$23

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How much do entry level material science engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level material science engineering in Michigan is $23.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $28.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Material Science Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science, chemistry, or engineering, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory techniques, materials characterization tools (such as SEM, XRD, or spectroscopy), and CAD software is often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this field. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring precise material analysis, innovative problem-solving, and successful collaboration on engineering projects.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as an entry-level material science engineer?

As an entry-level material science engineer, you will typically assist in the development, testing, and analysis of materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, or composites. Your daily tasks may include preparing samples, conducting laboratory experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and supporting senior engineers in research or product development projects. You’ll also collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, such as mechanical and chemical engineers, to solve materials-related challenges and improve product performance. This hands-on experience is invaluable and often serves as a springboard for more advanced roles in research, quality assurance, or product design.

What does an entry level material science engineer do?

An entry level material science engineer assists in the research, development, and testing of materials used to create products and structures. They typically work under the supervision of experienced engineers to analyze material properties, conduct experiments, and help improve manufacturing processes. Their responsibilities may include preparing samples, running laboratory tests, recording data, and supporting the design of new materials for specific applications such as aerospace, electronics, or energy. These engineers play a crucial role in helping organizations develop innovative and efficient materials. The position usually requires a bachelor's degree in material science, engineering, or a related field.

What is the difference between Entry Level Material Science Engineering vs Entry Level Metallurgical Engineering?

AspectEntry Level Material Science EngineeringEntry Level Metallurgical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Materials Science, Engineering, or related fieldBachelor's in Metallurgical Engineering or Materials Science
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing plants, R&D departmentsMining sites, metal production facilities, manufacturing plants
Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, electronics, consumer productsMining, metal extraction, alloy development, manufacturing

Entry Level Material Science Engineering and Entry Level Metallurgical Engineering share foundational knowledge and often overlap in industries like manufacturing and R&D. However, Material Science focuses more on the properties and applications of materials, while Metallurgical Engineering emphasizes metal extraction and processing. Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree and involve work in labs or industrial settings, but their specific industry applications differ slightly.

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Entry Level Material Science Engineering jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Entry Level Material Science Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Material Science Engineering job openings in Michigan as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,432 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Research Scientist (E)

Orbotech

Ann Arbor, MI

$91.20K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Job description

Company Overview

KLA is a global leader in diversified electronics for the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. Virtually every electronic device in the world is produced using our technologies. No laptop, smartphone, wearable device, voice-controlled gadget, flexible screen, VR device or smart car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits, packaging, printed circuit boards and flat panel displays. The innovative ideas and devices that are advancing humanity all begin with inspiration, research and development. KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem-solvers work together with the world's leading technology providers to accelerate the delivery of tomorrow's electronic devices. Life here is exciting and our teams thrive on tackling really hard problems. There is never a dull moment with us.

Job Description/Preferred Qualifications

Research Scientist's are core to KLA's technology, while we do not currently have an opening, we are always building our Research Scientists talent community, we are interested in learning about your background.


Apply to this posting for Future Opportunities with KLA.

Research and test new optical technologies for wafer inspection implementations.


Conceive new concepts based on solid physics understanding of light and material interaction and imaging theory.


Validate concepts through modeling, simulations and experiments.


Design and build optical imaging test benches for technology feasibility study.


Design and conduct experiments, collect and analyze data, draw clear conclusions from multivariable data sets.


Work with engineering team to implement new technologies

Qualifications:

We seek candidates with a PhD in Physics, Material Science, Electrical Engineering or related fields.
Candidates must have experimental hands-on skills in lasers, optics design, solid state physics, electron optics or related fields, and must demonstrate exceptional skills in data analysis and communication.

Experienced user of Matlab, familiar with Zemax.


Selected candidates will work on cutting edge technology development for future KLA tools.

Minimum Qualifications

Doctorate (Academic) Degree and 0 years related work experience; Master's Level Degree and related work experience of 3 years; Bachelor's Level Degree and related work experience of 5 years.
PhD in Physics, Material Science, Electrical Engineering or related fields.

Base Pay Range: $91,200.00 - $155,000.00Primary Location: USA-MI-Ann Arbor-KLAKLA's total rewards package for employees may also include participation in performance incentive programs and eligibility for additional benefits including but not limited to: medical, dental, vision, life, and other voluntary benefits, 401(K) including company matching, employee stock purchase program (ESPP), student debt assistance, tuition reimbursement program, development and career growth opportunities and programs, financial planning benefits, wellness benefits including an employee assistance program (EAP), paid time off and paid company holidays, and family care and bonding leave.

Interns are eligible for some of the benefits listed. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed reflects the pay for this position in the primary location identified in this posting. Actual pay depends on several factors, including state minimum pay wage rates, location, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education level or training. We are committed to complying with all applicable federal and state minimum wage requirements where applicable. If applicable, your recruiter can share more about the specific pay range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

KLA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will ensure that qualified individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us at talent.acquisition@kla.com or at +1-408-352-2808 to request accommodation.

Be aware of potentially fraudulent job postings or suspicious recruiting activity by persons that are currently posing as KLA employees. KLA never asks for any financial compensation to be considered for an interview, to become an employee, or for equipment. Further, KLA does not work with any recruiters or third parties who charge such fees either directly or on behalf of KLA. Please ensure that you have searched KLA's Careers website for legitimate job postings. KLA follows a recruiting process that involves multiple interviews in person or on video conferencing with our hiring managers. If you are concerned that a communication, an interview, an offer of employment, or that an employee is not legitimate, please send an email to talent.acquisition@kla.com to confirm the person you are communicating with is an employee. We take your privacy very seriously and confidentially handle your information.