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Entry Level Material Science Engineering Jobs in Virginia

Dupont

Tyvek(R) R&D Lab Technologist

Richmond, VA

This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic, highly collaborative team that applies expertise in materials science, polymer science, chemistry, physics, and engineering to develop next ...

Virginia Tech

Research Scientist

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

D. in science, engineering, liberal arts, or related discipline Background in and understanding of ... materials Preferred Qualifications Experience with grant writing and reporting Experience in ...

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

MANAGER

Dahlgren, VA

$143K/yr

Degree: physical science, engineering, or mathematics that included 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science such as mechanics, dynamics, properties of materials, and ...

US Department of the Navy

MANAGER

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$143K/yr

Degree: physical science, engineering, or mathematics that included 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science such as mechanics, dynamics, properties of materials, and ...

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All JobsMaterial Science Engineering JobsEntry Level Material Science Engineering JobsEntry Level Material Science Engineering Jobs in Virginia

Entry Level Material Science Engineering information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$26

$43

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

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level material science engineering in Virginia is $26.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $32.64 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Entry Level Material Science Engineering jobs in Virginia? For Entry Level Material Science Engineering jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Material Science Engineering jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Material Science Engineering jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Material Science Engineering jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Material Science Engineering job openings:
Entry Level Material Science Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Material Science Engineering job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,091 per year, or $26.5 per hour.
Scientific Software Developer (DC, NoVA)

Scientific Software Developer (DC, NoVA)

Stellar Science

Vienna, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

We hire smart Scientists and Software Engineers who love to create and maintain high quality, extensible scientific codes, and want to learn and adopt modern C++ practices.
Support software development in the following domains: space domain awareness (SDA), laser source generation and effects modeling, high power microwave systems modeling and simulation, computational electromagnetics (CEM), space systems modeling, atmospheric modeling, high performance computing (HPC), computer aided design (CAD) tools, image simulation, computer vision, image processing, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and more.
Requirements:
  • Ph.D., M.S., or B.S. in physics, math, electrical/mechanical/aerospace engineering, computer science, or any relevant scientific or engineering field
  • Ability to implement, understand, and maintain mathematical and scientific codes
  • Object-oriented design and C++ programming experience
  • Substantial software development experience
  • Interest in developing modern, high quality C++20/23 code
  • U.S. citizen, willing to undergo background investigation, and perform some work at government and/or customer sites
Experience in any of the following is a plus:
  • C++20/23, TypeScript, Python, Java
  • Relevant libraries: Boost, Eigen
  • Cross-platform software development on Linux, Windows, Mac
  • 3D graphics using OpenGL, Open Scene Graph and/or WebGL
  • User interface development with Qt, Java Swing, Material UI
  • Supercomputing: OpenMP, threads, MPI, CUDA, GPU
  • Image processing, imagery analysis, or computer vision, computer aided design (CAD)
  • Aerospace vehicles, orbital mechanics, electromagnetics, space domain awareness
  • Modeling and simulation, including directed energy
  • Active security clearance
A representative sample of your code may be requested early in the evaluation process, e.g. something you've written for work, a school project, or for fun. It should be long enough to demonstrate your programming and software engineering skills.
 

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