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Material Engineering Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

Three Point Solutions

Material Coordinator

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Implement engineering release and change management outputs * Monitor production inventory and ... Supports material planning and production execution * Coordinates across multiple factory ...

Varsity Tutors

Structural Engineering Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Adapts instruction using structural analysis software, code reference materials, and design problem sets to support advanced undergraduate and graduate civil engineering students preparing for ...

Varsity Tutors

FE - Civil Engineering Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of FE Civil examination content covering mathematics, probability and statistics, statics, dynamics, mechanics of materials, fluid mechanics, hydraulics, geotechnical engineering ...

Covanta

Director, Electrical Engineering (Nevada)

Nevada, IA · On-site

$115K - $147K/yr

... materials management solutions that reduce, reuse, recycle and reimagine waste for the benefit of ... The Director of Electrical Engineering leads the Electrical Design Engineering team and is ...

Varsity Tutors

Civil Engineering Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, hydraulics, environmental engineering, materials science, surveying, and construction management. Ability ...

Varsity Tutors

Mechanical Engineering Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of statics, dynamics, mechanics of materials, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, machine design, manufacturing processes, and control systems. Ability to explain free body ...

Acco Engineered Systems

Project Engineer II

Nevada, IA · On-site

$73 - $95/hr

Provides value engineering and cost reduction solutions to the Project Manager. * Manages the project's material procurement process and coordinates the shipments of material to the site and/or other ...

Varsity Tutors

Biomedical Engineering Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Biomedical Engineering Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of ... Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple ...

Varsity Tutors

Electrical Engineering Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Electrical Engineering Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of ... Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple ...

CONCRETE STRATEGIES

Field Engineer

Johnston, IA · On-site

Field Engineer Department: Operations/Project Management Reports to: President/Chairman/Chief ... Material/equipment procurement * Coordination with GC/Owner * Coordination with CSI Operations ...

CONCRETE STRATEGIES

Field Engineer

Johnston, IA · On-site

Field Engineer Department: Operations/Project Management Reports to: President/Chairman/Chief ... Material/equipment procurement * Coordination with GC/Owner * Coordination with CSI Operations ...

Socket.dev

Packaging Engineer

Reno, NV · On-site

$70 - $110/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Packaging Engineering preferred. * 3+ years' experience in packaging design within a technology or manufacturing company. * Strong knowledge of packaging materials, batteries ...

WesTech Engineering

Project Manager 1

Ames, IA · On-site

Oversee the Engineering and Design of the equipment. * Prepare job review materials. * Prepare material for a post job review. * Coordinate vendor activities to support project objectives. * Prepare ...

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Material Engineering information

See Ames, IA salary details

$13

$26

$43

How much do material engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for material engineering in Ames, IA is $26.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.04 and $32.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.

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 bachelor's degree in materials science, engineering, or a related field, along with relevant skills in testing, analysis, and CAD software. Strong technical knowledge, internships, and professional certifications can improve employment prospects, but demand varies by industry and location.

Is material engineering a good career?

Material engineering is a viable career that involves developing and testing materials used in various industries such as aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing. It requires strong knowledge of chemistry, physics, and materials science, often involving laboratory work and technical problem-solving. Job prospects are generally stable, with opportunities for advancement and specialization.

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. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of material science are essential for this role.

What job categories do people searching Material Engineering jobs in Ames, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Material Engineering jobs in Ames, IA are:

Material Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Material Engineering job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,355 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Material Coordinator

Three Point Solutions

Ankeny, IA • On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Job Title:         Material Coordinator
Client:              Heavy Machine Manufacturing Company
Duration:         1 Year (Possibility of extension)
Location:         Ankeny, IA 50023
Shift:                1st Shift – Monday to Friday (Flexible start at 6:00 AM)

                        Possible overtime based on business needs

Key Responsibilities
• Coordinate material flow across multiple factory departments
• Ensure production teams receive required parts on time
• Monitor inventory accuracy and delivery schedules
• Identify and resolve material shortages
• Coordinate tactical execution of production plans
• Expedite and procure materials as needed
• Manage rejected material movement and returns
• Create and distribute daily production schedules
• Process inbound and outbound material transactions
• Audit material replenishment cycles and accuracy
• Resolve inventory errors to prevent production delays
• Work critical shortage reports for part availability
• Implement engineering release and change management outputs
• Monitor production inventory and forecast future needs
• Transfer stock between departments and maintain records
• Coordinate with Supply Management on purchased parts
• Prepare daily and weekly reports using MS Office
• Troubleshoot part requests from engineers
• Diagnose issues with laser programs and routings
• Review manufactured part prints
• Create and edit manufacturing routings
• Generate fabrication programs
• Occasionally design simple shop-use parts

Must Have
• Associate degree in Engineering Technology, CAD, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• Experience in manufacturing environment
• Proficient in MS Office, especially Excel
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical abilities
• Ability to read and interpret 2D drawings and prints
• Experience with CREO and AutoCAD
• Familiarity with SAP and Power BI
• Knowledge of inventory management practices
• High computer literacy and comfort with technology

Nice to Have
• Bachelor’s degree in related field
• Mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills
• Knowledge of sheet metal and fabrication processes

Role Scope
• Supports material planning and production execution
• Coordinates across multiple factory departments
• Ensures uninterrupted production through material availability
• Supports engineering change and release processes
• Works with Supply Chain, Engineering, and Production teams

Education
• Associate degree required
• Bachelor’s degree preferred

Tools & Systems
• SAP
• CREO
• AutoCAD
• Lantek/Radan
• Microsoft Office

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