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Entry Level Materials Science Engineering Jobs in Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania State University

POSITION SPECIFICS The Materials Science and Engineering Department, within the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences at Penn State is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar to perform research under the ...

The Pennsylvania State University

POSITION SPECIFICS The Department of Materials Science and Engineering in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences is searching for a postdoctoral scholar. The position will involve machine learning ...

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All JobsMaterials Science Engineering JobsEntry Level Materials Science Engineering JobsEntry Level Materials Science Engineering Jobs in Pennsylvania

Entry Level Materials Science Engineering information

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$13

$26

$44

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

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level materials science engineering in Pennsylvania is $26.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.52 and $33.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level materials science engineer do?

Entry level materials science engineers assist in researching, designing, and testing materials used in a wide range of products and industries. They often work under the supervision of senior engineers, helping to analyze material properties, conduct experiments, and prepare technical reports. Their tasks can also include supporting manufacturing processes, evaluating new materials, and ensuring quality standards are met. This role provides foundational experience and exposure to various materials, such as metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as an entry level materials science engineer?

As an entry level materials science engineer, you'll typically contribute to projects involving material selection, testing, and analysis under the guidance of senior engineers. Your responsibilities may include preparing samples, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and documenting results to support product development or process improvement. You may also assist in troubleshooting material-related issues and collaborate with cross-functional teams such as design, manufacturing, and quality assurance. This hands-on experience helps build foundational skills and provides insight into various industry applications.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Materials Science Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science principles, chemistry, physics, and engineering, usually supported by a bachelor’s degree in materials science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, materials characterization techniques (such as SEM, XRD), and CAD or simulation software is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you stand out. These abilities are essential for solving complex materials challenges, ensuring quality, and collaborating efficiently within multidisciplinary engineering teams.

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

AspectEntry Level Materials Science EngineeringEntry Level Mechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Materials Science or Engineering, internshipsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, internships
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing, quality controlDesign, testing, manufacturing, R&D
Industry UsageMaterials development, nanotechnology, compositesAutomotive, aerospace, energy systems

Entry Level Materials Science Engineering focuses on developing and testing new materials, often in research or manufacturing settings. In contrast, Entry Level Mechanical Engineering involves designing and analyzing mechanical systems. Both roles require a bachelor's degree and internships, but they serve different industry needs and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Materials Science Engineering jobs in Pennsylvania?

For Entry Level Materials Science Engineering jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Materials Science Engineering jobs in Pennsylvania look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Materials Science Engineering jobs in Pennsylvania are:

What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Entry Level Materials Science Engineering jobs?

Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Entry Level Materials Science Engineering job openings:

Entry Level Materials Science Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Materials Science Engineering job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,701 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Materials Science Lab Internship

Engineering Consulting Services

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Other

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Laboratory Technician

Responsibilities

  • Perform specific tasks associated with laboratory tests on construction materials under the direction of others.
  • Receive samples and label, bag and prepare paperwork for testing operations
  • Support project management tracking in ECS software systems
  • Perform photographs of samples
  • Cut and/or crush concrete samples for test preparation
  • Prepare polished sections of concrete for microscopic analysis
  • Perform chemistry tests of concrete
  • Maintain the laboratory cleanliness and organization
  • Notify supervisor of broken or missing equipment
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

  • Actively pursuing a degree in Earth Sciences, Materials Science, Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Civil/Structural Engineering or other degree relevant to the study of building materials.
  • Interest in materials science as applied to building materials
  • Dependable, detail-oriented, and organized
  • Demonstrates good communication skills (speaking, reading, and writing)
  • Limited knowledge of laboratory equipment and test methods
  • Limited knowledge of sample preparation and test methods
  • Ability to interpret data and properly record collected information
  • Proficient with computers, Microsoft Word, and Excel
  • Must be able to stand for long periods and lift a minimum of 40 pounds a number of times each day
  • If driving for, or on behalf of, any ECS subsidiary, a valid driver's license is required

About Us

ECS Group of Companies (ECS) was founded in 1988 with the goal to raise the standards of professional engineering consulting. Today, we are a leader in geotechnical, construction materials, environmental and facilities consulting services. We are employee-owned with more than 3,000 employees in 100+ offices and testing facilities coast to coast. ECS is currently ranked #60 in Engineering News-Record's Top 500 Design Firms (April 2026), #148 in Engineering News-Record's Top 200 Environmental Firms (October 2025) and #50 in Zweig Group's Hot Firm List (May 2025). For additional information about ECS, visit www.ecslimited.com.

ECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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