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Material Characterization Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Leidos

Junior Engineer Drafter

Reston, VA · On-site

... materials, and technical data. Work is performed using computer-aided design and modeling tools ... As part of a facility characterization team, integrate all-source intelligence, geotechnical data ...

Leidos

Junior Engineer Drafter

Reston, VA

... materials, and technical data. Work is performed using computer-aided design and modeling tools ... As part of a facility characterization team, integrate all-source intelligence, geotechnical data ...

Leidos

Structural Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

Apply engineering judgment and technical leadership throughout the characterization process to ... Composite Materials * Mechanical Design * Proven ability to solve complex, ambiguous problems ...

Leidos

Structural Engineer

Reston, VA

Apply engineering judgment and technical leadership throughout the characterization process to ... Composite Materials * Mechanical Design * Proven ability to solve complex, ambiguous problems ...

Leidos

Geotechnical Engineer

Reston, VA

$92K - $166K/yr

... mass characterization . * Advanced knowledge of geotechnical software such as PLAXIS, SLOPE/W ... Working knowledge of weapons effects and geologic material response under dynamic loading.

Leidos

Geotechnical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$92K - $166K/yr

... mass characterization . * Advanced knowledge of geotechnical software such as PLAXIS, SLOPE/W ... Working knowledge of weapons effects and geologic material response under dynamic loading.

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Material Characterization information

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$9

$22

$31

How much do material characterization jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for material characterization in Virginia is $22.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $25.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Material Characterization jobs in Virginia? For Material Characterization jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Material Characterization jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Material Characterization jobs in Virginia are:
Material Characterization jobs near you
Research Scientist in Materials Science and Engineering

Research Scientist in Materials Science and Engineering

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

University Of Virginia rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

192nd of 536 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Center for Electrochemical Science and Engineering in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Virginia seeks a Research Scientist (RS) to facilitate and advance sponsored research programs in two or three key topic areas, as well as other high-priority scientific research areas.
Duties include:
  • Design, synthesize and heat treat multi-principal element alloys. Utilize Python, CALPHAD, and ML methods for high-throughput analysis. Design alloys, synthesize and verify structure and composition by multiple methods. Conduct ML studies on down-selected alloys that meet phase stability criteria to identify compositions with the desired properties, including but not limited to corrosion. Work with materials experts to obtain corrosion electrochemical properties by conducting LSV, EIS, Passivation, and XPS. Partner and collaborate with materials experts to conduct CSRO and TTO-C analysis on solid solution alloys using a variety of tools.
  • Perform and analyze high-fidelity corrosion studies on select alloys in molten salts or other harsh environments. Prior experience with salt preparation and MS reference electrodes is required, as well as with in-situ and post-test material analysis methods, such as SEM and XRD.
  • Investigate the protection of high-value, lightweight, high-strength substrates susceptible to local corrosion such as IGSCC, and other forms of localized corrosion that degrade the substrate. Investigate the protection afforded by mitigation strategies over long exposure times using ALT. Investigate corrosion mitigation strategies targeted at complex, high-strength, low-weight alloys, such as Al-Mg microstructure. The successful candidate will work with metal powders, polymer coatings, and chemical inhibitors incorporated in a polymer matrix. The powders will contain various metallic elements and/or alloy pigments. Substate materials include Al-Mg and Al-Mg-Zn alloys. See the recommended experimental and modeling skills shown below. The ideal candidate will use software such as Medusa, CALPHAD, and OLI or similar.
  • Investigate hydrogen interactions in high-strength materials introduced electrochemically. Conduct experiments to assess diffusible, trapped, and total hydrogen content and effective and perfect lattice diffusion coefficients. Also, conduct diagnostic experiments to determine whether permeation is surface- or bulk-controlled. Extend controlled potential and current experiments to studies of protective coatings that may accelerate or inhibit hydrogen production, d absorption. Include HER studies and permeation by the D-S method.
  • The ideal candidate will have the ability to analyze and interpret data in metallurgy, corrosion, and corrosion electrochemistry, and to write papers and progress reports for sponsors. The candidate will demonstrate prior achievement through archival publications in these or related areas.
  • The RS position will involve supervising and providing experimental research method training analysis to BS, MS, and PhD level materials science and engineering students working on the same or closely related projects as the RS. This research workforce will be capable of attaining research goals augmented by the supervision of the PI.
  • The RS will be expected to conduct multiple projects concurrently and possess extensive technical skills and experience with various experimental electrochemical techniques, including AC and DC electrochemistry, such as cyclic polarization, LSV, such as EIS, SVET, SKP, SDC, and SECM. The candidate will also be familiar with characterization methods, such as SEM/EDS, XRD, EBSD, XPS, ICP-OES, optical profilometry, and Raman. The RS will write proposals to attract sponsored research and, when appropriate, to support the acquisition of experimental equipment. The RS will provide both oral and written progress reports to sponsors and will play a key role in mentoring graduate students and supervising undergraduate researchers.

QUALIFICATIONS: Requires a doctoral degree or a master's degree with significant experience, in Materials Science and Engineering with a thesis dissertation emphasizing corrosion and metallurgy or closely related to these are required.
Preferred: A PhD is preferred. Preferred candidates should have at least two years prior research experience as a postdoctoral researcher at a research university or evidence of success on three or more past projects. They must also demonstrate good written and oral English language skills to interact with various sponsors, attention to detail, good record keeping, strong analytical skills, and previous experience mentoring junior researchers (undergraduate and graduate students).
The Center for Electrochemical Science and Engineering (CESE) at the University of Virginia is built on the foundation of the Applied Electrochemistry Laboratories, a highly successful organized research unit since 1974. In 1986, the Virginia Center for Innovative Technology (CIT) identified CESE as a Technology Development Center. CESE is a multi-disciplinary research effort which includes activities in the Departments of Materials Science and Engineering and Chemical Engineering, as well as interactions with Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, and Physics. It is one of the nation's leading research centers of its kind. CESE addresses a technologically critical field. It encompasses the broad field of electrochemical science and engineering which affects the performance and reliability of most products manufactured in the world today.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Apply online at https://jobs.virginia.edu/us and search for R0082328. Attach the following documents: a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references. Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the box.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of applications will begin on May 1, 2026, but the position will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.
This is a one-year appointment, and the appointment may be renewed contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.
For questions about the position, please contact John Scully, Professor, at jrs8d@virginia.edu.
For questions regarding the application, please contact Rich Haverstrom, Faculty Search Advisor, at rkh6j@virginia.edu.
For more information on the benefits available to research scientists at UVA, visit hr.virginia.edu/benefits .
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .

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About University of Virginia

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The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

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10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819

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