ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Material Characterization Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Entegris

Material Characterization Scientist

Aurora, IL · On-site

$114K - $144K/yr

Material Characterization Scientist Entegris is currently seeking a Polymer Characterization Scientist, CMP Pad to join our Materials Solutions Division R&D team. This position will be based at our ...

Entegris

Material Characterization Scientist

Aurora, IL

$114K - $144K/yr

Material Characterization Scientist Entegris is currently seeking aPolymerCharacterization Scientist, CMPPadto join our Materials Solutions Division R&D team. This position will be based at our ...

Optimal Inc.

Battery Material Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

Battery Material Engineer Below: * Cathode material morphology control and formulation modification * Battery material characterization and evaluation * Slurry mixing, electrode coating and cell ...

Intellectt INC

Senior Materials Scientist

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

Perform material characterization using techniques like Metallography, Optical Microscopy, SEM/EDS, FTIR, Raman, Microhardness * Conduct lab testing and analyze results * Prepare technical reports ...

Apply Early

ERC, Inc.

Material Engineer IV

Redstone Arsenal, AL · On-site

Responsibilities will include collecting various evidence of material properties by performing various material characterization tasks including metallographic evaluations to determine ...

ERC Inc.

Material Engineer IV

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Responsibilities will include collecting various evidence of material properties by performing various material characterization tasks including metallographic evaluations to determine ...

Syensqo

Research Chemist

Stamford, CT · On-site

The primary focus of this position is thermal analysis and material characterization. You will perform thermal characterization studies, develop analytical methods, interpret data, and communicate ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMaterial Characterization Jobs

Material Characterization information

See salary details

$9

$22

$31

How much do material characterization jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for material characterization in the United States is $22.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Material Characterization vs Material Testing Technician?

AspectMaterial CharacterizationMaterial Testing Technician
CredentialsTypically requires degrees in materials science, engineering, or related fieldsOften holds certifications in testing methods or technical diplomas
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, and R&D departmentsManufacturing plants, quality control labs, and production lines
Industry UsageUsed in research, development, and advanced material analysisFocused on routine testing and quality assurance

Material Characterization involves detailed analysis of material properties using advanced techniques, often in research settings. Material Testing Technicians perform standardized tests to ensure materials meet quality standards. While both roles require technical knowledge, Material Characterization is more research-oriented, whereas Material Testing Technicians focus on routine testing and quality control.

What is material characterization?

Material characterization is the process of analyzing and measuring the properties and structure of materials to understand their composition, performance, and suitability for specific applications. It involves using various techniques, such as microscopy, spectroscopy, and mechanical testing, to gather data about a material's physical, chemical, and mechanical attributes. This information is crucial for developing new materials, quality control, and failure analysis in industries like manufacturing, aerospace, and electronics.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Material Characterization, and why are they important?

To excel in Material Characterization, you need a solid background in materials science, chemistry, or physics, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with analytical tools such as SEM, TEM, XRD, and spectroscopic techniques, as well as experience with data analysis software, is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help professionals interpret results and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for accurately assessing material properties and supporting research, development, and quality control in various industries.

What are some common challenges faced in a Material Characterization role, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Material Characterization often encounter challenges such as ensuring the accuracy and reproducibility of test results, dealing with complex or sensitive materials, and troubleshooting instrumentation issues. Addressing these challenges requires strong attention to detail, regular calibration and maintenance of equipment, and continuous learning about new techniques and technologies. Collaboration with research scientists, engineers, and quality control teams is also essential to interpret results effectively and resolve technical issues. Staying up-to-date with industry best practices and engaging in ongoing training can further help professionals excel in this role.
More about Material Characterization jobs
What cities are hiring for Material Characterization jobs? Cities with the most Material Characterization job openings:
What states have the most Material Characterization jobs? States with the most job openings for Material Characterization jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Material Characterization jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Material Characterization jobs are:
Material Characterization jobs near you
Material Characterization Scientist

Material Characterization Scientist

Entegris

Aurora, IL • On-site

$114K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Entegris rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 527 rated manufacturers

Job description

Job Title:
Material Characterization Scientist
Job Description:
Entegris is currently seeking a Polymer Characterization Scientist, CMP Pad to join our Materials Solutions Division R&D team. This position will be based at our Aurora (Greater Chicago Area) facility.
In this role, you will develop and advance fundamental understanding of the mechanical and rheological behavior of polymer systems used in CMP pad materials. You will lead the development of metrology capabilities and analytical frameworks that enable deep insight into structure-property relationships, supporting improved product design, consistency, and performance.
What You'll Do
Metrology & Method Development:
  • Develop, optimize, and standardize mechanical testing methods (e.g., DMA, stress-strain, creep, oscillatory rheology) for CMP pad materials across development and manufacturing environments

  • Establish rheological characterization protocols (e.g., cure kinetics, viscoelastic behavior, frequency/temperature sweeps) to understand polymer network formation and processing sensitivity

  • Define and implement measurement best practices, calibration methods, and inter-lab correlation to ensure data consistency and reproducibility

Establish Structure-Property-Performance Relationship:
  • Correlate mechanical and rheological properties to CMP performance metrics

  • Build property-performance models to enable material design targets and process control windows

  • Support root-cause investigations for yield, consistency, and customer performance issues using quantitative metrology data

Data & Modeling:
  • Working with scientists and engineers in product design and production to design and execute DOE-based studies to isolate key variables affecting mechanical properties

  • Develop data analysis workflows and predictive models; Establish databases and visualization tools to enable data-driven decision making across teams

Cross-functional and External Collaboration:
  • Partner with formulation scientists, process engineers, and application teams to translate metrology insights into actionable products and process improvements guidance

  • Work with manufacturing teams to transfer lab-scale metrology into production-relevant measurements

  • Collaborate with instrument vendors and external partners to evaluate and deploy new characterization capabilities

Communication & Technical Leadership
  • Document and communicate findings through technical reports, standards, and presentations to internal and external stakeholders

  • Contribute to metrology strategy and roadmap, identifying gaps and future capability needs

  • Mentor team members on best practices in mechanical testing, rheology, and data interpretation

What We Seek
  • 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 developed test methods, measurement systems, or analytical approaches

  • Hands-on experience with characterization techniques such as thermal-mechanical testing, rheometer, tensile and fatigue testing, and compression and flexural testing with demonstrated ability to design and troubleshoot experiments

  • Strong understanding of polymer mechanical and viscoelastic behavior, including structure-property relationships and the impact of network formation, crosslinking, and formulation on material performance

  • Practical experience in Design of Experiments (DOE), data analysis, and problem solving

  • Experience with thermoset, thermoplastic, elastomeric, or filled polymer systems is preferred

  • Knowledge of CMP or semiconductor processes is a plus, but not required

  • Self-motivated, collaborative, and able to operate effectively in a cross-functional, fast-paced environment

  • Strong communication skills with the ability to translate technical findings into practical recommendations

What We Offer:
At Entegris, we invest in providing opportunity to our employees and promote from within. The new hire in this role will have the potential to grow and create relationships across the organizationand be recognized for demonstrated success and adherence to company PACE values.
Our total rewards package goes above and beyond just a paycheck. Whether you're looking to build your career, improve your health, or protect your wealth, we offer generous benefits to help you achieve your goals.
  • Generous 401(K) plan with an impressive employer match

  • Excellent health, dental and vision insurance packages to fit your needs

  • Flexible work schedule and 11 paid holidays a year

  • Paid time off (PTO) policy that empowers you to take the time you need to recharge

  • Education assistance to support your learning journey

  • Values-driven culture with colleagues that rally around People, Accountability, Creativity and Excellence.

Compensation: $114,000-$144,000, dependent on candidate skillset and experience.
At Entegris we are committed to providing equal opportunity to all employees and applicants. Our policy is to recruit, hire, train, and reward employees for their individual abilities, achievements and experience without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, marital or military status.

What Entegris employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply