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Material Characterization Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Leidos

Senior Physicist

Reston, VA · On-site

Analyze structural, material, and functional attributes of adversary underground and hardened ... Perform data analysis, model validation, uncertainty assessment, and performance characterization ...

Leidos

Senior Physicist

Reston, VA · On-site

Analyze structural, material, and functional attributes of adversary underground and hardened ... Perform data analysis, model validation, uncertainty assessment, and performance characterization ...

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All JobsMaterial Characterization JobsMaterial Characterization Jobs in Virginia

Material Characterization information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$22

$31

How much do material characterization jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 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 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 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 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
Infographic showing various Material Characterization job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 79% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,785 per year, or $22 per hour.

Postdoctoral Scholar - Research Associate

University of Southern California

Arlington, VA

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

University Of Southern California rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

104th of 622 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Responsibilities

Theory

  • Quantum transport modeling using NEGF; first-principles materials and interface calculations using DFT (VASP, Quantum ESPRESSO, or equivalent).
  • Atomistic spin dynamics or micromagnetic simulation (e.g., Vampire, OOMMF, MuMax3); extraction of compact device models from first-principles results.

Experiment

  • End-to-end device fabrication: e-beam lithography, metallization, lift-off, thin-film deposition, and etch.
  • Integration of heterogeneous material stacks supplied by collaborators into working device structures.
  • Electrical and magnetic characterization, including cryogenic transport, FMR, and high-frequency lock-in measurements.

Program role

  • Design and lead validation experiments at the major program decision gates, co-author theory and experimental publications, and contribute to the patent portfolio.

Qualifications

Required

  • PhD (awarded or imminent) in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
  • Demonstrated competence in both a computational technique (NEGF, DFT, micromagnetics, atomistic spin dynamics, or equivalent) and an experimental technique (device fabrication, transport, FMR, magneto-optics, or thin-film characterization).
  • Strong publication record.

Preferred

  • Prior experience with spintronic materials or beyond-CMOS device platforms.
  • Familiarity with MATLAB or the Python scientific stack.
  • Prior involvement in multi-PI collaborations or government-funded programs.

What the Program Offers

Competitive salary commensurate with experience (USC postdoc / USC-ISI graduate research assistant scales). Access to USC-ISI cleanroom facilities, the broader USC research ecosystem, and fabrication routing through the CA DREAMS Microelectronics Commons Hub. Direct involvement in a high-visibility DARPA program with clear paths to first-author publications and a position in a growing patent portfolio. The successful candidate will interact regularly with senior faculty at partner institutions. Detailed technical scope will be discussed during the interview. The initial appointment is for 18 months, renewable for up to 36 months subject to performance and program funding.

To Apply

CV including publication list A one-page statement describing your prior research and your interest in the program - please indicate explicitly which theoretical and experimental techniques you bring Names and contact information for three references PDF of one representative publication

Email your CV, cover letter, and relevant publications to Ajey Jacob at ajey@isi.edu.

The Application Specific Intelligent Computing Lab at the USC Information Sciences Institute (USC-ISI) is recruiting to join a beyond-CMOS spintronics program - a 36-month, multi-institution DARPA-funded effort to develop a three-terminal beyond-CMOS digital logic switch based on spintronic elements.
The successful candidate will take technical leadership on device physics and device integration, working across theory and experiment within a multi-PI team spanning USC-ISI and partner institutions.

USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to theBackground Screening Policy Appendix Dfor specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email atuschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

  • Notice of Non-discrimination
  • Employment Equity
  • Read USC's Clery Act Annual Security Report
  • USC is a smoke-free environment
  • Digital Accessibility

If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this  USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser:

https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$151908.htmld

What University Of Southern California employees say

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About University of Southern California

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The University of Southern California (USC) is not a conventional company, but a private research university established in the heart of Los Angeles, CA, US. Founded in 1880, it's one of the oldest private research universities in California. USC operates in the education industry providing primary services of higher education, research, and community development. This prestigious institution offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The University is guided by its commitment to foster creativity, innovation, leadership, and discovery through academic excellence.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles , CA, US

Year founded

1880

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