ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Material Engineering Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMaterial Engineering JobsMaterial Engineering Jobs in Iowa

Material Engineering information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$25

$41

How much do material engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for material engineering in Iowa is $25.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $30.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

Is it hard to get a job as a material engineer?

Securing a job as a material engineer can be competitive and typically requires a relevant bachelor's degree in materials science, engineering, or a related field. Strong technical skills, experience with industry tools, and professional certifications can improve employment prospects, but demand varies by industry and location.

What exactly does a material engineer do?

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, work with manufacturing processes, and use tools like microscopy and testing equipment to ensure quality and durability in products and structures.

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 Iowa? For Material Engineering jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Material Engineering jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Material Engineering jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Material Engineering jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Material Engineering job openings:
Material Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Material Engineering job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,192 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Materials Engineer I - Materials Engineering

Three Point Solutions, Inc.

Waterloo, IA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Title: Materials Engineer I - Materials Engineering
Client: Heavy Machine Manufacturing Industry
Duration: 2 years
Location: Waterloo, IA 50704
Description:
Materials Engineer I - Materials Engineering
Major Purpose
Assists and supports materials engineering work that is narrow in scope and responsibility. This job fully integrates an individual into the engineering culture by performing professional materials engineering (e.g., chemicals, plastics, finishes, metallurgy, heat treat, ceramics, etc.) assignments and specific engineering tasks that are limited in scope, depth, and degree of skill required. Work plans and decisions are reviewed by supervisors.
Major Duties
  • Carry out a range of activities under the guidance of more senior colleagues to support the analysis of information and the specification of the methods and process steps, as well as the plant, machinery, and equipment, required to design and continuously improve manufacturing or materials processes and process systems.
  • Contribute to the development of, and implement feasibility testing of, proposed engineering solutions to provide feedback and data to validate the design.
  • Support drafting of engineering standards and specifications and evaluate the effectiveness of those standards.
  • Carry out inspections under the supervision of senior colleagues to evaluate the quality of engineering works and/or the integrity of existing installations or structures, and make recommendations to senior colleagues on the remedial works needed to ensure conformance with specifications and regulatory requirements.
  • Coordinate subcontractors and suppliers, acting as the primary contact within an established contract management plan.
  • Identify shortcomings in existing processes and systems and use established change management programs to address them.
  • Help others get the most out of knowledge management systems by offering support and advice.
  • Conduct a range of product development and engineering activities. Analyze customer needs and define/deliver products.
  • Work within an established project management plan to achieve specific goals.
  • Participate in assessment and development planning activities, engage in formal and informal training, and maintain an understanding of relevant technology, external regulations, and industry best practices.

Skills, Abilities, Knowledge
  • Engineering Technology
  • Engineering Design
  • Engineering Development
  • Business Requirements Analysis
  • Engineering Specification
  • Engineering Testing
  • Project Schedule Management
  • Engineering Build
  • Engineering Implementation
  • Engineering Technical Operations Support
  • Health and Safety
  • Negotiation
  • Policy and Regulation
  • Review and Reporting
  • Risk Management
  • Contract Management
  • Costing and Budgeting
  • Graphics or Photo Imaging
  • Word Processor Software
  • Presentation Creation
  • Spreadsheet Expertise
  • Database User Interfaces and Queries
  • Development Environment
  • Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
  • Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM)
  • Internet Browser Knowledge
  • Electronic Mail Expertise

Education
  • Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent Level

Description:
Major Purpose
  • This job is for a Materials Engineering lab technician whose everyday assignments and tasks may vary from routine to infrequent.
  • Duties are relatively broad in scope and may require evaluations by the position holder.
  • The holder of this position will perform materials engineering supporting tasks or complex laboratory analytical functions with limited engineering oversight.

Major Duties
  • Completes tasks involving preparation or analysis of material samples/components/processes with minor engineering oversight for moderately complex activities.
  • Develops, recommends, and implements analytical or process changes to maintain or improve product quality.
  • Works with maintenance and production personnel to troubleshoot laboratory equipment, process, or analytical problems.
  • Participates in project teams to improve factory performance in safety, quality, cost, and delivery.
  • Creates and maintains process instructions or develops analytical processes to meet production needs.
  • Creates and maintains laboratory procedures and processes.
  • Maintains "Sustain" level of 5S in the materials engineering lab.

Qualifications
Technical Skills & Knowledge
  • Excellent understanding of part prints, process instructions, and industry standards.
  • Basic to moderate knowledge of ferrous machining processes and materials analysis.
  • Basic knowledge of production and analytical equipment, and maintenance activities.
  • Solid mechanical aptitude with a drive to grow this skill set.
  • Very good verbal and written communication skills.

Education
  • 2-year associate technical degree or equivalent work experience.

Relevant Work Experiences
  • Experience in process control and analytical analysis.
  • Experience in Client manufacturing environment.
  • Experience in shop floor or laboratory environment.
  • Participation in process problem-solving teams.
  • Demonstrated technical leadership and mentoring experience.
  • Experience with production systems and databases.
  • Experience using Microsoft Office Suite and other engineering software tools.

Specific Job Duties
  • Perform laboratory tasks and support activities in the materials lab as requests are received.
  • Work with requestors to ensure proper work is done and parts are delivered to the lab.
  • Order and stock lab consumables.
  • Track reservation number, IM number, price, order date, and delivery date.
  • Enter crib reservation in SAP (PDX) transaction.
  • Collect parts, perform audits, and maintain Monthly/Quarterly Audit spreadsheets.
  • Track work request system.
  • Maintain all lab equipment.
  • Support changeovers and adjustments at S450 crankshaft heat treat.
  • Maintain coolant levels in all saws.
  • Get new consumables approved for use.

#ZR

Apply