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Entry Level Materials Science Engineering Jobs in Virginia

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Materials Science, Polymer Engineering, or related discipline * 3--6 years of experience in hands‑on materials research and development, including direct experience ...

Field Service Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$37 - $51.20/hr

Who We Are Applied Materials is the global leader in materials science and engineering solutions that are at the foundation of virtually every new semiconductor chip and advanced display in the world.

Entry Level Staff Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$70 - $100/hr

... and testing of materials, developing training materials, and development of specifications ... Bachelor's degree in engineering or science - required. * Entry level to up to 5 years of ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Materials Science Engineering information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$26

$43

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

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level materials 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 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Materials Science Engineering job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,091 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Construction Materials Project Manager

ECS Ltd

Fredericksburg, VA • On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Manage construction materials testing projects, including daily report review, collaborating with project teams, providing resolutions of technical and administrative issues, and training field staff.

  • Manage project budgets, prepare invoices and pay applications, and assist with collection efforts.

  • Prepare proposals and change orders, host or attend project meetings with clients, and follow up on reports as needed.


Job description


Responsibilities

ECS Limited is offering a unique opportunity for a talented Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Project Manager I to join our Fredericksburg, VA field services team and advance in a dynamic work environment. In this role, you’ll successfully manage a variety of projects and collaborate with project teams from senior engineers to field staff to meet project deadlines.

Responsibilities

  • Tasks supporting the management of construction materials testing projects, including daily report review, collaborating with project teams, providing resolutions of technical and administrative issues as they arise, and training field staff on your projects.
  • Manage project budgets, prepare invoices, pay applications, and assist with collection efforts.
  • Prepare proposals and change orders for your projects; Host or attend project meetings with clients and follow up on reports as needed.
  • Perform soil classifications and assign laboratory testing.
  • Mentor junior staff and support overall development of your team. 

Career Development

  • As your experience grows, ECS will support you in enhancing your professional skills with the potential for additional mentoring, leadership, and advanced certifications.
#LI-AS1
Qualifications

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Science in any of the following: Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering and Management, Materials Science Engineering, Architectural Engineering, or Geology; Note: Construction Management degrees and certain Technology degrees may not be considered.
  • A minimum of 2 full years of relevant experience.
  • Must have valid driver's license and insurance.
  • PE or PG license required in the state you work for license in title.
  • Strong marketing skills with the ability to establish and maintain client relationships.
  • Strong communication skills (speaking, reading, and writing).
  • Sound understanding of heavy construction safety, practices, and procedures.
  • Sound knowledge of CMT principles, applications, and ASTM laboratory standards.
  • Ability to work effectively with clients, peers, and supervisors.

Military Qualifications:

  • The following US Military ranks will qualify for this position IF they also meet the education and licenses requirements from the above section titled "Required Qualifications":
    • E-6

The expected pay range for this role and location is $60k - $75k/year. The final agreed-upon compensation will be determined based on specific location and other individual qualifications." 


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 building science + infrastructure consulting services. We are employee-owned with more than 3,00 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 #38 in Zweig Group’s Hot Firm List (June 2026). For additional information about ECS, visit: www.ecslimited.com.

ECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To learn more, click here.

Qualifications:

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 building science + infrastructure consulting services. We are employee-owned with more than 3,00 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 #38 in Zweig Group’s Hot Firm List (June 2026). For additional information about ECS, visit: www.ecslimited.com.

ECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To learn more, click here.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME