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Entry Level Materials Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Structures Company

Materials Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$19 - $94/hr

Provides mentoring and training to entry-level engineers and manufacturing technicians. * Applies ... Applies materials science and process engineering principles to thin film deposition. * Optimizes ...

Chipton Ross

Materials Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$94.15/hr

Can be involved in mentoring and training entry level engineers and manufacturing technicians ... Accredited Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Material Science, Physics or related field. WORK HOURS ...

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How much do entry level materials science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level materials science in the United States is $20.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level materials science job?

Entry level materials science jobs are positions designed for recent graduates or those new to the field of materials science and engineering. These roles typically involve assisting with research, testing materials, quality control, and supporting the development of new materials or products. Common job titles include Materials Engineer, Laboratory Technician, and Research Assistant. Entry level professionals often work under the supervision of experienced scientists or engineers, gaining practical experience and foundational skills necessary for career advancement.

What are some typical projects an entry-level materials scientist might work on during their first year?

As an entry-level materials scientist, you can expect to work on projects such as testing material properties, assisting in the development of new materials, and supporting quality control initiatives. You'll often collaborate with engineers and senior scientists to analyze material samples, interpret experimental data, and help improve manufacturing processes. These responsibilities provide hands-on experience and a foundation for advancing into more specialized roles as you develop your technical skills and industry knowledge.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level materials scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Materials Scientist, you need a solid background in chemistry, physics, and materials engineering, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in materials science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory techniques, materials characterization tools (such as SEM, XRD, or TEM), and data analysis software like MATLAB or Python is often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are critical soft skills for collaborating with teams and presenting findings. These skills and qualities are essential for accurately analyzing materials, solving technical challenges, and contributing to innovative product development.

What is the difference between Entry Level Materials Science vs Entry Level Mechanical Engineering?

AspectEntry Level Materials ScienceEntry Level Mechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Materials Science, Chemistry, or related fieldBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, manufacturing plantsDesign offices, manufacturing plants, testing labs
Industry UsageMaterials development, quality control, researchProduct design, systems, manufacturing processes
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Materials Science roles focus on developing and testing new materials, often working in labs or research settings. In contrast, Entry Level Mechanical Engineering positions involve designing and analyzing mechanical systems. Both roles require a bachelor's degree and are common in manufacturing and research industries, but they emphasize different technical skills and work environments.

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Entry Level Materials Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Materials Science job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% 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 $43,581 per year, or $21 per hour.

Entry Level Materials Engineer

Niskayuna, NY • On-site

Naval Nuclear Laboratory

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 49 rated military and defense

Good employer

Respectful managers

Good training

Learn more about Naval Nuclear Laboratoryexternal

$63K - $97K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

About Us

Working at the Naval Nuclear Laboratory we foster pride in belonging to an organization whose culture is made up of these core values: Trust, Empowerment, and Collaboration. Our company promotes a positive culture while ensuring the safety and reliability of our nation's naval nuclear reactors, and training the Sailors who operate those reactors in the U.S. Navy's submarines and aircraft carrier Fleets. Looking for a lifetime career? Apply today!

Job Description

Expand your career in materials engineering with Naval Nuclear Laboratory. NNL is seeking an engineer to conduct research and development into mechanical performance of reactor core materials, with a focus on delayed hydride cracking behavior of zirconium alloys. Responsibilities include design of experiments, data analysis and interpretation, written and oral presentations of results, and frequent formal communications with stakeholders. Specifically, the successful candidate will collaborate with the team to:

  • Support ongoing test programs including test method development
  • Identify specimens and test conditions for irradiated testing in the Advanced Test Reactor at the Idaho National Laboratory
  • Direct post-irradiation mechanical testing and material characterization campaigns
  • Analyze, interpret, and report test results
Required Combination of Knowledge and Skill
Bachelors degree from an accredited college or university in a related technical, engineering or science field; or Masters degree from an accredited college or university in a related technical, engineering or science field.
Preferred Skills

* Degree in Materials Engineering or metallurgical Engineering focused on mechanical performance of materials
* Mechanical property testing experience
* Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment
* Demonstrated ability to clearly communicate technical information both verbally and in written format

Compensation and Benefits
  • Health, Dental, Vision & Voluntary Benefits
  • Disability, Life & Accident Insurance
  • 401(k) Savings program & Capital Accumulation Plan
  • Personal & Medical Time Off
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Flexible Work Schedules
  • Tuition Assistance for Eligible Employees
  • Student Debt Benefit Personal Time Off Sell Program
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Wellness Program
  • Visit us online to view all NNL benefits!
Pay Range
$63,900.00 - $97,800.00 annually
Salary information provided is a general guideline only. Annual salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is operated for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) by Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC (FMP), a wholly owned subsidiary of Fluor Corporation. Naval Nuclear Laboratory personnel are FMP employees who work at four DOE facilities: Bettis Atomic Power Laboratory, Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory, Kenneth A. Kesselring Site, and Naval Reactors Facility, and at the U.S. Department of Defense-owned Nuclear Power Training Unit-Charleston. FMP employees also have an established presence at numerous shipyards and vendor locations. For nearly 70 years, the Naval Nuclear Laboratory has developed advanced nuclear propulsion technology, provided technical support, and trained world-class nuclear operators to ensure the safe and reliable operation of our nation's submarine and aircraft carrier Fleets. The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is a national asset solely dedicated to the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. We rely on the dedication and innovation of our nearly 8000 engineers, scientists, technicians, and support personnel.

All candidates must be U.S. citizens. Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter. FMP is a government contractor and maintains a drug free workplace and workforce. All candidates must be able to pass a drug test in compliance with FMP company policy and 10 CFR 707. Marijuana is a Federal Schedule I controlled substance and illegal under Federal Law. Therefore, FMP is required to test for marijuana.

Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other criteria protected by federal, state, or local law.

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