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Material Engineering Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

NextGenEnergyJobs

Packaging Engineer

Nevada, IA · 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 · Hybrid

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 ...

Socket.dev

Staff Chemical Engineer

Nevada, IA · On-site

$150 - $210/hr

About Redwood Materials Redwood is localizing a global battery supply chain that seamlessly ... B.S. in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related discipline ...

WesTech Engineering

Quality Control Inspector

Ames, IA · On-site

Review specifications and any other materials to ensure that safety requirements of a fabrication ... Engineers, Project Management, Design, Engineering, Supply Chain, Aftermarket, Field Service ...

City of Ames

Power Plant Engineering Co-op

Ames, IA

$24.72/hr

... new material types for ash moving, thermodynamics of the boiler, and flows through piping and ... or Industrial Engineering. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Necessary to Perform Essential ...

Socket.dev

Chemical Engineer

Reno, NV · On-site

$110 - $160/hr

Founded in 2017, we're delivering low-cost and large-scale energy storage and producing battery materials in the U.S. for the first time, all from batteries we already have. The chemical engineering ...

State of Iowa

Transportation Engineer Senior

Ames, IA · On-site

$95K - $135K/yr

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a master's degree in chemical, civil, construction, environmental, materials, structural, or transportation engineering; engineering ...

Harris

Software Engineer

Nevada, IA

$80K - $90K/yr

... Material UI. - Worked on AI assisted development (e.g. GitHub Copilot, Claude, Cursor or ChatGPT) - Familiarity with AI directed prompt engineering for developing applications. Requirements ...

Keen Project Solutions LLC

Project Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Ensure that delivered materials match specifications, quality standards, and quantities. 3.DOCUMENT ... Bachelor's degree in a related science field such as Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering ...

ABB

Protection and Control Engineer

Ames, IA · Remote

Develop engineering documentation and perform analyses-such as schematics, logic diagrams, layouts, bills of materials, reports, and calculations-to support accurate, standardscompliant system ...

Varsity Tutors

AP Chemistry Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes particulate-level reasoning and mathematical problem-solving, connecting chemistry to pharmaceutical development, environmental science, and materials engineering. * Curriculum Awareness ...

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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.

Packaging Engineer

NextGenEnergyJobs

Nevada, IA • On-site

$70 - $110/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

The Packaging Engineer is responsible for the development, specification, and implementation of packaging solutions.

Key Responsibilities
  • Design and develop packaging solutions for various products, ensuring all customer and regulatory requirements are met.
  • Conduct testing and certification from applicable authorities for packaging solutions.
  • Implement and maintain packaging standards and protocols for all Redwood Materials’ products and processes.
  • Act as a primary contact with suppliers and internal stakeholders during new package development.
  • Responsible for problem solving processes; works with production facilities and suppliers to recommend and implement solutions to packaging problems.
  • Develop cost containment / savings / quality improvement ideas through research of improved sources of supply, technology, and materials.
  • Maintains up to date knowledge of material innovation and all associated training available for the Logistics Department.
  • Assists in the research of environmental compliance requirements involving packaging components.
  • Stay up to date on trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes in the industry.
Requirements
  • 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, equipment, and testing methods.
  • Preferred experience with hazardous materials regulations and transport compliance.
  • Strong experience managing projects and working in a cross-functional environment.
  • Solid communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • A passion for sustainability and making the world a better place!
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