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Material Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ALO

Raw Materials Developer, Footwear

Commerce, CA

$90K - $110K/yr

Material Engineering & Testing * Define material specifications and test plans (lab and wear) to validate performance, safety, and durability. * Partner with Product Integrity/Quality to ensure ...

Oklo

Materials Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Demonstrated experience applying engineering judgment to support material selection decisions in complex or high-consequence systems * Strong understanding of material behavior in demanding ...

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All JobsMaterial Engineering JobsMaterial Engineering Jobs in California

Material Engineering information

See California salary details

$13

$26

$43

How much do material engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for material engineering in California is $26.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $32.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the job of a material engineer?

A material engineer researches, develops, and tests materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites to improve their performance and suitability for specific applications. They analyze material properties, select appropriate materials for products, and often use tools like microscopy and testing equipment, typically working in laboratories or manufacturing environments. Certification and knowledge of material science principles are important for this role.

What jobs can materials engineers get?

Materials engineers can work in industries such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, energy, and manufacturing, focusing on developing, testing, and improving materials like metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites. They often work in research labs, production facilities, or quality control environments, utilizing tools like microscopy and testing equipment, and may require certifications or advanced degrees for specialized roles.

What is the difference between Material Engineering vs Materials Science?

AspectMaterial EngineeringMaterials Science
EducationBachelor's or Master's in Material Engineering or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science or related fields
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, R&D labs, product developmentResearch labs, academic institutions, R&D centers
FocusDesign, processing, and application of materials in productsUnderstanding properties, structure, and fundamental science of materials
Common UsageIndustry-driven, product-focused rolesResearch, academia, fundamental science roles

Material Engineering and Materials Science share overlapping skills and educational backgrounds, but differ in focus. Material Engineers primarily work on applying materials in manufacturing and product development, while Materials Scientists focus on understanding material properties and scientific research. Both roles are vital in advancing material technologies, often collaborating in industry and research settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Material Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Material Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science, chemistry, and engineering principles, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in materials engineering or a related field. Familiarity with materials characterization tools, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and industry-specific certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) are often important. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help material engineers succeed in collaborative and project-driven environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for developing innovative, reliable materials and ensuring their appropriate application in various industries.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-demand industries or leadership roles.

What are the common challenges Material Engineers face when collaborating with cross-functional teams?

Material Engineers often work closely with teams from design, manufacturing, and quality assurance. A common challenge is effectively communicating complex material properties and limitations to colleagues who may not have a technical background in materials science. Additionally, balancing material performance with cost and manufacturability can require negotiation and creative problem-solving. Developing strong teamwork and communication skills is essential for translating technical recommendations into practical solutions that meet project goals.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-level engineering positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and a strong track record of project management and technical expertise.

What is material engineering?

Material engineering is a branch of engineering focused on the discovery, design, and development of new materials, as well as improving existing ones. It combines principles of physics, chemistry, and engineering to understand the properties and behaviors of different materials such as metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites. Material engineers work to create materials with specific properties for use in a variety of industries, including aerospace, construction, electronics, and medicine. Their work is essential for innovation in technology and manufacturing.
What are popular job titles related to Material Engineering jobs in California? For Material Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Material Engineering jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Material Engineering jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Material Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most Material Engineering job openings:
Material Engineering jobs near you
Data Scientist Associate, mechanical /material engineering background - (JP11919)

Data Scientist Associate, mechanical /material engineering background - (JP11919)

3 Key Consulting

Thousand Oaks, CA • Hybrid

$38 - $42/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Data Scientist Associate,mechanical / material engineering background - (JP11919)
Location: Thousand Oaks, CA. (hybrid)
Employment Type: Contract
Business Unit: Combination Product Advanced Analytics & Enabled Insights
Duration: 1+ years (with likely extensions and/or conversion to permanent)
Rate: $38-42 W2
Posting Date: 10/25/23
Notes: Only qualified candidates need apply. Must be local to Thousand Oaks, CA. (hybrid position).
3 Key Consulting is hiring a Data Scientist Associate for a consulting engagement with our direct client, a leading global biopharmaceutical company.
Job Description:
The Digital Associate Data Scientist will support the Combination Product Operations organization by improving the way client manages and utilizes data to enhance data analysis and decision making within the organization. We are seeking a highly motivated individual who will be primarily responsible for development and lifecycle management of digital modeling assets and analyzing scientific and combination product performance data. This individual will leverage in-silico and data-driven modeling to evaluate potential opportunities that enable changes in business and operation performance.
  • The ideal candidate enjoys tackling challenges and excels at enabling insights for decision making using data-driven and physics-based modeling.
  • This may include, but is not limited to, the following:
  • Applying engineering principles to develop in-silico models for combination products
  • Developing, enhancing, automating, and managing analytics and data-driven models
  • Performing ad-hoc analysis and supporting special projects; Providing input to management for trend and failure investigation process improvements
  • Demonstrating modeling and visualization approaches as part of proof-of-concept projects

Top Must Have Skills:
  • Experience with programming in Python, MATLAB, JMP, and/or Minitab for engineering purposes
  • Experience with model simulation and analysis (MS&A) techniques for structural, fluidic, and heat transfer problems using commercial software such as ANSYS, LS-Dyna, ABAQUS, COMSOL
  • Experience with mathematical/first principles modeling, numerical techniques, and uncertainty quantification such as Monte Carlo simulations
  • Engineering background - but not computer engineering background (Looking for mechanical / material engineering background with coding experience)
  • The ideal candidate enjoys tackling challenges and excels at enabling insights for decision making using data-driven and physics-based modeling.
  • Applying engineering principles to develop in-silico models for combination products
  • Developing, enhancing, automating, and managing analytics and data-driven models
  • Performing ad-hoc analysis and supporting special projects; Providing input to management for trend and failure investigation process improvements
  • Demonstrating modeling and visualization approaches as part of proof-of-concept projects

Day to Day Responsibilities:
  • The ideal candidate enjoys tackling challenges and excels at enabling insights for decision making using data-driven and physics-based modeling.
  • Applying engineering principles to develop in-silico models for combination products
  • Developing, enhancing, automating, and managing analytics and data-driven models
  • Performing ad-hoc analysis and supporting special projects; Providing input to management for trend and failure investigation process improvements
  • Demonstrating modeling and visualization approaches as part of proof-of-concept projects

Basic Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Engineering plus 3 years of simulation, modeling, and data analysis experience
Or
Master's degree in Science or Engineering plus 1 year of simulation, modeling, and data analysis experience
Or
Bachelor degree OR Associate degree and 4 years of experience OR High school diploma / GED and 6 years of experience
  • Experience with programming in Python, MATLAB, JMP, and/or Minitab for engineering purposes
  • Experience with model simulation and analysis (MS&A) techniques for structural, fluidic, and heat transfer problems using commercial software such as ANSYS, LS-Dyna, ABAQUS, COMSOL
  • Experience with mathematical/first principles modeling, numerical techniques, and uncertainty quantification such as Monte Carlo simulations
  • Data analysis expertise and statistical or mechanistic modeling experience
  • Experience in deriving technical recommendations and specifications from the analysis of measured data
  • Strong communication, presentation, and technical documentation skills are a plus, as is knowledge of process controls

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Intellectual curiosity with ability to learn new concepts/frameworks, algorithms and technology rapidly as needs arise
  • Ability to manage multiple competing priorities simultaneously
  • Ability to work in highly collaborative, cross-functional environments

Employee Value Proposition:
Career growth, opportunity, unique experience.
Red Flags:
  • No Engineering Background (NOT SOFTWARE ENGINEERING)
  • No modeling and simulation experience
  • No Data Analysis experience
  • Not meeting basic qualification

Interview process:
Phone interview followed by a virtual presentation to the hiring team
We invite qualified candidates to sendyour resume toresumes@3keyconsulting.com. Ifyou decide that you're not interested in pursuing this particular position, please feel free to take a look at the other positions on our websitewww.3keyconsulting.com/careers. You are also welcome to sharethis opportunity withanyone you think might be interested in applying for this role.

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