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Material Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... Engineering team is serving as experts in various material disciplines to the broader company and working on making the best rockets and spacecraft in the world. As a member of this team you will ...

... Engineering team is serving as experts in various material disciplines to the broader company and working on making the best rockets and spacecraft in the world. As a member of this team you will ...

Currently pursuing a master's or doctoral degree in Material Engineering, Chemical Engineering ... Physics, or a closely related field. * Coursework or hands-on experience with thermal-chemical ...

Author surface finishes, material palettes, CMF (color/material/finish) standards and testing specifications * Work in conjunction with Supplier Quality Engineering and Purchasing teams for supplier ...

The Materials Engineering Team at Neuralink develops and qualifies high-performance, biocompatible materials for next-generation brain-computer interfaces. The team owns material characterization ...

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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 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:
Materials Engineer Level 5

Materials Engineer Level 5

NORTHROP GRUMMAN

Sunnyvale, CA

$161K - $241K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 339 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

109th of 518 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time
Description
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is a trusted provider of mission-enabling solutions for global security. Our Engineering and Sciences (E&S) organization pushes the boundaries of innovation, redefines engineering capabilities, and drives advances in various sciences. Our team is chartered with providing the skills, innovative technologies to develop, design, produce and sustain optimized product lines across the sector while providing a decisive advantage to the warfighter. Come be a part of our mission!
Northrop Grumman Marine systems is seeking a Materials Engineer, Level 5, to lead materials engineering design and support for propulsion & machinery efforts on the Virginia-class of fast attack submarines. A presence in Sunnyvale, California is required for this role.
This position is for a dynamic role within Northrop Grumman's Marine Systems Materials Engineering and Test Laboratory (METL) department. This is a fast-paced environment where the team provides materials engineering support to design engineering and on-site production activities.
An ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate subject matter expertise in materials and/or weld engineering and will have a strong background in metallurgical and weld processes for ferrous materials. This position requires subject matter expert level understanding of metallurgy, forming processes, metallographic evaluation, non-destructive test, heat treatments, corrosion control mechanisms, and industrial fabrication. Deep knowledge of common commercial weld codes are expected and knowledge of NavSea weld codes are a plus. Familiarity with Department of War programs and lifecycle management are also beneficial.
Regular activities in this role will include providing materials engineering expertise during design phases, ownership of materials engineering related tasks for upcoming Virginia products, and working with suppliers and our customer on fabrication processes and approvals.
Applicant must be a U.S. citizen. A DOW clearance will be required for this position.
Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math) with 12 years of relevant experience; OR a Master's Degree in STEM with 10 years of relevant experience.
  • Experience with heavy industrial manufacturing.
  • Clear understanding of commercial materials processing, inspection, and related standards.
  • Experience with supplier quality, manufacturing-focused distributed supply chain, and vendor collaboration.
  • US Citizenship required.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Security Clearance.
  • Ability to travel 10% annually.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience supporting U.S. Navy programs and/or the U.S. Department of War
  • Expert knowledge of common Navy fabrications codes and standards
  • Experience in the capture and execution of research and development activities.
  • 10+ years of supporting external customers
  • 10+ years of experience in project management roles.
  • Project Management Professional certification
  • Current holder of Secret Security Clearance or greater clearance

Primary Level Salary Range: $161,000.00 - $241,400.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939