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Material Characterization Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ERC Inc.

Material Engineer IV

Huntsville, AL

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

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 ...

Stoke Space

Materials & Process Engineer

Kent, WA

$129K - $193K/yr

Design and execute material characterization programs: mechanical testing, environmental exposure, fatigue, and failure analysis, generating original properties data * Author, implement, and maintain ...

Qcells

Material Development Engineer

White, GA

Plan and execute material characterization using laboratory equipment such as FTIR, UV-Vis spectrometer, DSC, TGA, tensile tester, and microscopy tools. * Analyze test results, summarize technical ...

Qcells

Material Development Engineer

Cartersville, GA · On-site

Plan and execute material characterization using laboratory equipment such as FTIR, UV-Vis spectrometer, DSC, TGA, tensile tester, and microscopy tools. * Analyze test results, summarize technical ...

Stoke Space

Materials & Process Engineer

Kent, WA · On-site

$129K - $193K/yr

Design and execute material characterization programs: mechanical testing, environmental exposure, fatigue, and failure analysis, generating original properties data * Author, implement, and maintain ...

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Material Characterization information

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How much do material characterization jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 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.
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Material Characterization jobs near you
Infographic showing various Material Characterization job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 78% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,181 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Material Engineer IV

ERC Inc.

Huntsville, AL

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

For more than 30 years, ERC has been delivering the advantage needed to solve our customers' and the nation's toughest challenges. ERC is a trusted partner to the Defense and Space communities. We provide the advanced engineering, innovative technology, and subject-matter expertise to deliver the mission results our customers need to keep the nation safe and secure.

Our unique solutions enhance readiness, optimize performance, and help ensure success in the air, on the ground and in space. An essential part of our success is our corporate culture built on respect, empowerment, and collaboration. Our culture elevates our people, ensuring they provide best-in-class service and solutions to our customers.

We always strive to do the right thing. We believe that are our people are our best asset and human connection our greatest strength. Check us out on ERC.US Your role: In your role as a Materials Engineer, you will be responsible for collecting various evidence of material properties by performing various material characterization tasks including metallographic evaluations to determine microstructure, verification and determination of alloy composition, and using various elemental analysis tools

What you'll do all day: Responsibilities will include collecting various evidence of material properties by performing various material characterization tasks including metallographic evaluations to determine: microstructure verification determination of alloy composition using various elemental analysis tools. The candidate will be responsible for supporting a variety of tests using established methods and procedures. You will love this job if you: Are a self-starter and require little oversight to complete given tasks Enjoy a fast-paced work environment Love working with diverse groups of individuals, including engineers and technicians Are good at communicating with people Have a positive attitude Enjoy multitasking Minimum requirements for this position: Must possess a Bachelor's Degree in Material Engineering from an accredited university and 9 years of combined engineering and technical experience, including 6 years of project experience; or a Master's Degree in the designated technical area of specialization from an accredited university and 7 years of combined engineering and technical experience, including 4 years of project experience; or a PhD in Engineering in the appropriate area of specialization or related discipline from an accredited college/university and 5 years of applicable experience, including 2 years of project experience, performing engineering, analysis, and related functions in research, development, test and evaluation in support of military equipment and systems.

Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret Clearance (U.S. Citizenship is required for all applicants) Failure analyst What we offer: Competitive salaries. Continuing education assistance

Professional development allotment. Multiple healthcare benefit packages. 401K with employer matching.

Paid time off (PTO) along with federally recognized holiday schedule.

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