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Graduate Materials Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hyliion

Advanced Engineer, Materials Science

Austin, TX · On-site

Bachelor's in metallurgical engineering or materials science degree required * 5+ years working with metals and materials characterization (graduate research counts). * Strong background in material ...

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How much do graduate materials science jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate materials science in the United States is $123,973.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,500.00 and $167,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Graduate Materials Science position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Materials Scientist, you typically need a degree in materials science, chemistry, or a related field, with strong analytical and laboratory skills. Familiarity with materials characterization tools (such as SEM, XRD, and spectroscopy), data analysis software, and laboratory safety certifications are often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in this role. These qualities enable accurate experimental work, clear reporting, and productive collaboration, which are essential for driving innovation and ensuring quality in materials research.

What are the career opportunities in materials science?

Graduates in materials science can pursue careers in industries such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, energy, and healthcare, working as materials engineers, research scientists, quality assurance specialists, or product developers. These roles often require knowledge of materials properties, testing methods, and proficiency with tools like microscopy and spectroscopy, with opportunities for advancement into management or specialized research positions.

Is a master's in materials science worth it?

A master's in materials science can enhance job prospects for roles such as materials engineer or research scientist by providing specialized knowledge in materials properties, processing, and testing. It often leads to higher-level positions, increased salary potential, and opportunities in industries like aerospace, automotive, and electronics.

What career progression can I expect as a Graduate Materials Scientist?

As a Graduate Materials Scientist, you can expect to begin in a junior or support role, assisting with experiments, data analysis, and reporting. Over time, with experience and further training, you may progress to lead projects, specialize in a particular area (such as polymers, metals, or nanomaterials), or take on supervisory responsibilities. Many organizations offer mentorship, professional development programs, and opportunities to collaborate with cross-functional teams, which can accelerate your career growth. With continued advancement, you could move into senior scientist, research management, or even product development roles within academia, industry, or government research institutions.

What can you do with a master's in materials science?

A master's in materials science prepares individuals for roles such as materials engineer, research scientist, or quality control specialist, often involving tasks like developing new materials, analyzing material properties, and improving manufacturing processes. Graduates can work in industries like aerospace, automotive, electronics, or energy, utilizing skills in microscopy, spectroscopy, and computer-aided design. Certification and familiarity with laboratory equipment and industry standards enhance job prospects.

What is a Graduate Materials Science job?

A Graduate Materials Science job is an entry-level position for individuals with a degree in materials science or a related field. It typically involves research, development, and testing of materials to improve their properties and applications in industries like aerospace, electronics, or manufacturing. Responsibilities may include analyzing material structures, conducting experiments, and assisting in product development. These roles help graduates gain hands-on experience and apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.

What jobs can I get with a materials science degree?

A materials science degree qualifies graduates for roles such as materials engineer, research scientist, quality control analyst, and product development engineer. These positions often involve working with metals, polymers, ceramics, or composites, and may require knowledge of testing methods, CAD software, and laboratory techniques.
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Graduate Materials Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Materials Science job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $123,973 per year, or $59.6 per hour.
Engineer Materials Science-US

Engineer Materials Science-US

Kennametal, Inc.

Rogers, AR

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Kennametal rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

268th of 418 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

 About Kennametal

With over 85 years as an industrial technology leader, Kennametal Inc. delivers productivity to customers through materials science, tooling and wear-resistant solutions. Customers across aerospace and defense, earthworks, energy, general engineering and transportation turn to Kennametal to help them manufacture with precision and efficiency. Learn more at kennametal.com. Follow @Kennametal: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.

Position: Materials Science Engineer
Location: Rogers, AR

Job Description - Requirements

Kennametal has an opening for experienced and entry-level Ph.D. or M.S. candidates in the Material Science/Engineering related field to be located at our manufacturing and research facility in the Rogers, AR.  A graduate degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) and/or practical experience in their field of study will be given consideration for a commensurate title and assignment.  Knowledge of physical metallurgy particularly in powdered metals / hard metal /metal alloys / industrial ceramics is strongly preferred. Practical experience in manufacturing or lab-scale processing is strongly preferred.  Beneficial Skills/experience would include applying statistical methods to improve process capability, reduce scrap or improve quality, experience with CAD, experience with CNC equipment operation, experience with brazing and other joining techniques, experience with casting, experience with additive manufacturing, knowledge of ferrous materials and their heat treatment, knowledge of advanced tribology, and knowledge of metal stamping. 

This position (Materials Scientist) works under the supervision of the Engineering Manager to develop new materials, processes and technology in the area of hard metal / cemented tungsten carbide materials. The employee will work closely with Manufacturing, Market Portfolio Managers, and Sales to understand customer needs, develop products and processes, transfer technology from R & D to manufacturing, and provide technical product support to customers. The employee will need hands-on experience conducting experiments and operating equipment in a laboratory and manufacturing setting.

Job Description - Tasks

  • Establish subject matter expertise for materials, processes, and technologies used in the Infrastructure business.
  • Support product development, process development, intellectual property, quality, manufacturing, and EHS through the development of hard metal processes for a wide variety of product platforms.
  • Initiate, plan and implement technology, manufacturing, and capital projects.
  • Will be required to provide on-site technical assistance to manufacturing and quality.
  • Lead teams to resolution in the systematic use of data-driven analysis, decision making, and validation.
  • Author and maintain internal procedures and work instructions.
  • Assist in vendor and material qualification, prepare functional specifications.
  • Research, evaluate and develop new technologies, analytical techniques, and processing methods.
  • Travel up to 25%, depending on project activity.
  • Must be able to work in the US without sponsorship

Due to the nature of the operations at this facility, consideration as an applicant is limited to individuals who are either a US Citizen or a US Permanent Resident.   An expression of interest from anyone who is not a US Citizen or a US Permanent Resident will not proceed for consideration as an applicant.

 Kennametal Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

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