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Entry Level Materials Science Jobs in California

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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Entry Level Materials Science information

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Materials Science jobs in California?

The most popular types of Materials Science jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Entry Level Materials Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Materials Science job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Materials Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA • On-site

The Structures Company
See more jobs at The Structures Companyexternal

$19 - $94/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

JOB TITLE: Materials Engineer
LOCATION: Santa Rosa, CA
PAY RATE: $79.00-94.15/hour

We are a national aerospace and defense staffing agency seeking highly qualified candidates for a position with a top-tier client.

Job Details:

  • Job Type: Contract (12 months with potential for extension)

  • Clearance: Ability to obtain a Secret Security Clearance

  • Industry: Aerospace / Defense / Aviation

  • Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision (Cigna)

  • Perks: Bonus potential + Priority access via Tier 1 supplier

  • Openings Nationwide: Thousands of opportunities across the U.S.

  • Shift: 4/10-A

Qualifying Questions:

  • Are you a U.S. citizen and able to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance?

  • Do you meet the educational and experience requirements for this role?

  • Can you commute to the job location or relocate if necessary?

Summary: 

  • Designs and develops sputtering and evaporation processes to produce optical thin-film based products.

  • Uses one or more thin film design tools including TFCalc, OptiLayer, FilmStar, and FilmWizard for design and analysis.

  • Acts as primary technical contact to internal Program Managers for multiple projects.

  • Provides mentoring and training to entry-level engineers and manufacturing technicians.

  • Applies various advanced analytical and metrology tools for thin film characterization and process control.

  • Performs thin film coating design, process development, and optimization for optical applications.

  • Supports engagements with customers, vendors, and colleagues for technical discussions.

  • Uses data analysis and metrology for process validation and product qualification.

  • Applies materials science and process engineering principles to thin film deposition.

  • Optimizes thin film deposition processes for production and development.

Requirements:

  • Ability to obtain a Secret Security Clearance.

  • Must be a U.S. Person (as defined by ITAR).

  • Extensive experience with sputtering and evaporation designs and processes for optical thin-film products.

  • Proficiency with one or more thin film design tools such as TFCalc, OptiLayer, FilmStar, or FilmWizard.

  • Competence with various advanced analytical and metrology tools for thin film characterization.

  • Experience with thin film materials and process engineering.

  • Ability to act as primary technical contact for multiple projects and Program Managers.

  • Experience mentoring and training entry-level engineers and manufacturing technicians.

  • Strong analytical and critical thinking skills for data-driven decision making.

  • Solid communication skills for customer, vendor, and internal engagement.

  • Experience with optical thin-film based product development and production.

About Us:

The Structures Company is a premier national aerospace and defense staffing agency specializing in contract, contract-to-hire, and direct hire placements. We deliver expert workforce solutions across engineering, IT, production, maintenance, and support roles.

As trusted partners to leading aerospace and defense OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, we connect professionals with career opportunities to grow and excel in aviation, aerospace, and defense.

Eligibility Requirements:

Must be a U.S. Person (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual under 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3)) to comply with ITAR regulations.

Keywords: aerospace, aviation, engineering, maintenance, aircraft design, defense

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