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Graduate Materials Science Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Material Characterization Scientist

Aurora, IL ยท On-site

$114K - $144K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

PhD in Polymer Science, Materials Science or related field required * 3+ years of post-graduate industry experience in polymer structural characterization, mechanical testing and rheology; Successful ...

Material Characterization Scientist

Aurora, IL

$114K - $144K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

PhD in Polymer Science, Materials Scienceor related field required * 3+ years ofpost-graduate industryexperience in polymerstructuralcharacterization, mechanical testingandrheology;

Data Science Tutor

Oak Lawn, IL ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... graduate programs. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching the full data ... Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple ...

Data Science Tutor

Wheaton, IL ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... graduate programs. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching the full data ... Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple ...

Data Science Tutor

Schaumburg, IL ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... graduate programs. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching the full data ... Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple ...

Data Science Tutor

Skokie, IL ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... graduate programs. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching the full data ... Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple ...

Research Scientist

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... and materials science. * Improve upon and develop novel quantum machine learning methods that ... Experience in academic graduate program related to applicable fields (e.g., quantum computing ...

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Data Science Tutor

Evanston, IL ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... graduate programs. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching the full data ... Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple ...

Data Science Tutor

Chicago, IL ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... graduate programs. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching the full data ... Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple ...

Data Science Tutor

Naperville, IL ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... graduate programs. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching the full data ... Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple ...

Data Science Tutor

Highland Park, IL ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... graduate programs. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching the full data ... Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple ...

Research Scientist

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... and materials science. * Improve upon and develop novel quantum machine learning methods that ... Experience in academic graduate program related to applicable fields (e.g., quantum computing ...

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Showing results 1-20

Graduate Materials Science information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$54.6K

$127.7K

$178.2K

How much do graduate materials science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate materials science in Chicago, IL is $127,710.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,300.00 and $172,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in graduate materials science, 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.

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 jobs can I get with a graduate materials science degree?

A graduate in materials science can pursue roles such as materials engineer, research scientist, quality control analyst, or product development engineer. These positions often require knowledge of materials properties, testing methods, and proficiency with tools like CAD software and laboratory equipment.

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?

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 are the most commonly searched types of Graduate Materials Science jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Graduate Materials Science jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Graduate Materials Science job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,710 per year, or $61.4 per hour.

Assistant Scientist - Quantum Materials

Argonne National Laboratory

Lemont, IL โ€ข On-site

$94K - $147K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

The Materials Science Division (MSD) at Argonne National Laboratory invites applications for an experimental scientist specializing in quantum materials to join the Quantum States in Crystalline Matter (QSCM) Group. We seek a highly motivated researcher with demonstrated expertise in the synthesis and crystal growth of quantum materials, coupled with a strong interest in advancing the fundamental physics that emerges from these systems.

The successful candidate will have extensive experience in the growth and synthesis of inorganic quantum materials using techniques such as optical floating zone, vapor transport, flux growth, Bridgman growth, and related methods. Additional desirable qualifications include expertise in crystal structure determination using X-ray diffraction; experience with bulk property characterization techniques, including electrical transport, specific heat, and magnetic measurements; and familiarity with conducting or collaborating on experiments at major national user facilities, including synchrotron and neutron-scattering centers.

The position offers the opportunity to establish and lead an independent research program while working closely with scientists across the QSCM Group and the broader MSD community. The successful candidate will be expected to develop innovative research directions, publish impactful results in leading scientific journals, contribute to proposal development, and mentor postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and visiting scientists.

Candidates must hold a Ph.D. in physics, materials science, chemistry, or a closely related discipline and possess relevant postdoctoral research experience. The new hire will contribute to the QSCM Group's ongoing research efforts while helping to shape its future scientific directions through the development of novel research initiatives that complement and expand the group's portfolio.

The Quantum States in Crystalline Matter Group is a U.S. Department of Energy Office of Basic Energy Sciences (BES)-funded research program dedicated to uncovering the fundamental properties, structures, and dynamics that govern quantum materials. The group maintains a comprehensive suite of crystal growth and synthesis facilities, powder and single-crystal X-ray diffraction instrumentation, and advanced platforms for measuring physical properties under a wide range of temperatures, magnetic fields, and pressures.


QSCM researchers engage in extensive collaborations throughout Argonne National Laboratory and regularly conduct experiments at world-leading user facilities, including the Advanced Photon Source (APS) and the Center for Nanoscale Materials (CNM). The group also maintains strong partnerships with external facilities such as the neutron-scattering centers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), providing unparalleled opportunities to pursue cutting-edge research in quantum materials.

This job description documents the general nature of work but is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all activities, duties and responsibilities required of job incumbent. Consequently, job incumbent may be required to perform other duties as assigned.

Position Requirements

  • Ph.D. in physics, materials science, chemistry, or a closely related discipline with 2+ years of postdoc experience
  • Postdoctoral research experience within the field of quantum materials
  • Expertise in single crystal growth of inorganic quantum materials
  • Interpersonal skills, oral and written communication skills, and ability to interact with people at all levels both within and outside the laboratory.
  • Ability to model Argonne's core values: Impact, Safety, Respect, Integrity, and Teamwork.

Job Family

Research Development (RD)

Job Profile

Physics 2

Worker Type

Regular

Time Type

Full timeThe expected hiring range for this position is $94,486.00 - $147,398.94.

Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.

Click here to view Argonne employee benefits!

As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.

Argonne employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation in the application phase for review by Argonne's Legal Department.

All Argonne offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes an assessment of criminal conviction history conducted on an individualized and case-by-case basis. Please be advised that Argonne positions require upon hire (or may require in the future) for the individual be to obtain a government access authorization that involves additional background check requirements. Failure to obtain or maintain such government access authorization could result in the withdrawal of a job offer or future termination of employment.