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Material Characterization Jobs in Denton, TX (NOW HIRING)

MP Materials Corp.

Manager, Characterization

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

MP Materials (NYSE: MP) is rebuilding American industrial capability for a new era of autonomy ... We are seeking an experienced Manager, Characterization to oversee materials characterization ...

New

Raytheon

Principal Propellant Chemist

Dallas, TX

Analyses will cover a wide range of topics from propellant chemistry, propellant processing, mechanical properties, failure analysis, material characterization, development, process improvement and ...

MP Materials Corp.

QA Laboratory Technician I

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

Experience with chemical test methods and material characterization of rare earth materials. MP Materials is Proud to be an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer - All qualified applicants ...

FormFactor Inc.

Material Handler

Dallas, TX · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Material Handler FormFactor, Inc. (NASDAQ: FORM), is a leading provider of essential test and ... product life cycle from characterization, modeling, reliability, and design de-bug, to ...

Formfactor

Material Handler

Farmers Branch, TX · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

... product life cycle - from characterization, modeling, reliability, and design de-bug, to ... The Material Handler is responsible for executing routine material movement and inventory control ...

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All JobsMaterial Characterization JobsMaterial Characterization Jobs in Denton, TX

Material Characterization information

See Denton, TX salary details

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$20

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How much do material characterization jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for material characterization in Denton, TX is $20.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $23.65 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 job categories do people searching Material Characterization jobs in Denton, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Material Characterization jobs in Denton, TX are:

Material Characterization jobs near you
Infographic showing various Material Characterization job openings in Denton, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 82% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,300 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Manager, Characterization

MP Materials Corp.

Fort Worth, TX • On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New

MP Materials rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 41 rated mining

Job description

Company Overview:

MP Materials (NYSE: MP) is rebuilding American industrial capability for a new era of autonomy, robotics, and electrification.

We are the only U.S. company with a fully integrated rare earth supply chain—from mining and refining to advanced metal and magnet manufacturing. Our products include both the critical materials used to make permanent magnets and the finished magnets themselves—enabling next-generation technologies in robotics, automation, aerospace, transportation, defense, and energy systems. These materials are the foundation of physical AI—the convergence of computation, movement, and control.

We hire ambitious, mission-driven people who want to tackle complex challenges and shape the future of strategic industries. Our culture is rooted in teamwork, resiliency, and integrity, with a deep commitment to operational excellence and national purpose. MP is rapidly evolving from a materials producer into a leading U.S. manufacturer—and our people are driving that transformation.

Position Overview:

We are seeking an experienced Manager, Characterization to oversee materials characterization efforts within the Magnet Technology organization. This role is responsible for establishing and executing the characterization strategy that supports research, technology development, process development, manufacturing scale-up, and production support for advanced rare earth permanent magnet technologies.

The successful candidate will provide both strategic and operational leadership across laboratory operations, analytical method development, advanced materials characterization, and laboratory infrastructure. This individual will lead a multidisciplinary team of managers, engineers, chemists, and technicians while ensuring the delivery of timely, accurate, and actionable data that enables innovation and manufacturing excellence. This is a hands-on technical leadership role requiring regular engagement in laboratory activities, data review, method development, root-cause investigations, and characterization of advanced magnetic materials, while simultaneously leading and developing a growing organization of scientists, engineers, and technicians.

The ideal candidate possesses deep expertise in materials characterization and analytical science, combined with demonstrated success leading laboratory organizations, developing technical talent, implementing world-class laboratory systems and methods, and supporting manufacturing and R&D environments. This is a rare opportunity to play a key role in returning an essential manufacturing capability to the USA.


Position Responsibilities:

  • Lead the Characterization function within the Magnet Technology organization, including oversight and mentorship of the Analytical Laboratory and Methods Development teams
  • Provide technical leadership in analytical science, materials characterization, and problem-solving across the company
  • Remain actively engaged in laboratory activities, including reviewing data, troubleshooting analytical challenges, guiding method development, and participating in key technical investigations
  • Oversee development, validation, automation, and continuous improvement of analytical methods and characterization workflows
  • Lead troubleshooting and root-cause investigations involving materials, processes, products, and analytical methods, and partner closely with R&D, Manufacturing, Quality, and EHS teams to solve complex materials and process challenges
  • Establish laboratory operating procedures, analytical standards, data quality requirements, training programs, and best practices across all characterization activities in the R&D and Quality labs
  • Drive implementation of data management, laboratory automation, and digital tools that improve efficiency, quality, and decision-making
  • Establish performance metrics and ensure the delivery of timely, accurate, and actionable analytical results to internal stakeholders
  • Ensure the effective operation, reliability, and expansion of analytical and characterization capabilities, equipment, and laboratory infrastructure
  • Build and develop a high-performing technical organization through recruitment, coaching, mentoring, succession planning, and talent development
  • Foster a culture of safety, technical excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement across all characterization activities
  • Other duties as assigned

 

Basic Qualifications:

  • M.S. or Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering, Metallurgy, Chemistry, Physics, or a related technical field
  • 8+ years of experience in materials characterization, analytical laboratories, materials development, or related technical environments
  • 5+ years of experience leading both laboratory operations and technical development organizations
  • Deep understanding of structure-property relationships in metals, powders, magnetic materials, and other inorganic materials systems
  • Demonstrated experience with a broad range of analytical and characterization techniques, including several of the following: SEM, EDS, EBSD, optical microscopy, metallography, XRD, XRF, ICP-OES, LECO, thermal analysis, mechanical testing, dimensional metrology, corrosion testing, and magnetometry
  • Experience developing, validating, and implementing analytical methods
  • Proficiency with statistical methods, measurement system analysis, and gage R&R studies
  • Experience managing technical projects, resources, budgets, and personnel
  • Strong data analysis, problem-solving, and root-cause investigation skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present technical information to both technical and executive audiences

Desired Qualities:

  • Experience working with rare earth materials, magnetic materials, powder metallurgy, sintered magnets, or advanced manufacturing technologies
  • 10+ years of industrial experience in materials characterization, analytical science, metallurgy, or related disciplines
  • Experience implementing laboratory automation, advanced analytics, machine learning, or digital laboratory systems
  • Experience supporting pilot-scale or commercial manufacturing operations
  • Familiarity with quality systems and laboratory accreditation principles
  • Demonstrated success building and scaling high-performing technical teams
  • Lifelong learner with a passion for innovation, technical excellence, and continuous improvement

MP Materials is Proud to be an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Underrepresented groups/Women/Disabled/Veterans are encouraged to apply. Candidates whose disabilities make them unable to meet the position’s requirements will still be considered qualified if they can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation.

Your Right to Work – In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment verification document form upon hire.

For Assistance with Application - Alternative methods of applying for employment are available to individuals unable to submit an application through this site because of a disability. Contact Human Resources Department at 702-844-6111; dial 7 when prompted for HR; 1700 South Pavilion Center Dr. 8th Floor, Las Vegas, NV 89135 to discuss reasonable accommodation.

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