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Entry Level Materials Science Engineering Jobs in Tennessee

Bachelors degree with 2-3 years of experience or a masters degree and 1-2 years of experience in Materials Science, Nuclear Engineering, or a similar field. * In depth knowledge on metallurgy ...

INTERN-R&D Lab Tech

Union City, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

... Chemical Engineering o Materials Science o Mechanical Engineering o Or a related field • Strong interest in polymers, materials science, or manufacturing • Detail-oriented with a strong ...

... Materials Science & Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (Materials Science preferred). • Minimum of 3 years of experience in process engineering ...

Process Engineer

Jonesborough, TN · On-site

$76K - $119K/yr

... Materials Science & Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (Materials Science preferred). • Minimum of 3 years of experience in process engineering ...

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Entry Level Materials Science Engineering information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$24

$40

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

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level materials science engineering in Tennessee is $24.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $29.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 do entry level materials science engineers 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 are popular job titles related to Entry Level Materials Science Engineering jobs in Tennessee? For Entry Level Materials Science Engineering jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Materials Science Engineering jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Materials Science Engineering jobs in Tennessee are:

Materials Science Engineering Fellow - Masters or PhD required

Volkswagen AG

Knoxville, TN

$28/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Worldwide, the Volkswagen Group has a long tradition of dramatic innovations. The Volkswagen Group with its headquarters in Wolfsburg, Germany is one of the world's leading automobile manufacturers and the largest carmaker in Europe. The Group comprises twelve brands from seven European countries: Volkswagen Passenger Cars, Audi, SEAT, SKODA, Bentley, Bugatti, Lamborghini, Porsche, Ducati, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, Scania and MAN.

Brief Role Description

 At the Innovation & Engineering Center California (IECC), we represent the Volkswagen Group in applied research and development. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, we create bold new ideas for the Volkswagen, Audi, Bentley, Lamborghini, Bugatti and Porsche brands. We're a team of engineers, designers, scientists, and psychologists looking to develop innovations for future generations of cars, and to transfer technologies from many industries and research institutions into the automotive domain. Our mission is to drive change which means we are not only impacting one of the world's largest car makers, but also the lives of millions of people. Are you ready to join us? 

The Innovation Hub Knoxville, an organization within Innovation Center California, is responsible for Material Research and Innovation in the North American Region. The intern will be part of the project team working on topics that include but not limited to material characterization, Life Cycle Assessment, and cost calculations of production processes.

Role Responsibilities
  • Support material science related laboratory work.
  • Material characterization equipment training.
  • Support material characterization.
  • Support with Life Cycle Assessment and cost calculations of production processes.
Qualification requirements

Qualifications

  • Must be enrolled at a University/College or Graduation date must be within the last six months.
  • Preference given to Masters or PhD stdents.Automotive, Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial, Aerospace Engineering or comparable field of study.
  • Material characterization knowledge is a benefit.Knowledge in creation Life Cycle Assessment is beneficial.
Compensation Data

In Knoxville, Tennessee, the hourly rates for this role are based on level of education:

  • Undergraduate (Junior or Senior): $28/hour
  • Graduate (Master's): $30/hour
  • PhD: $33/hour

Volkswagen's roots in Silicon Valley sprout the tech-driven future of transportation

Volkswagen Group of America is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome and encourage applicants from all backgrounds, and do not discriminate based on race, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, color, gender identity/expression, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable laws.

This role description is a guideline and does not create contractual rights between the Company and any of its applicants. The Company does not enter into any type of employment contract, implied or written, with its applicants regarding job security.

This Organization participates in E-Verify. We maintain a drug free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.