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Material Engineering Jobs in Bellevue, WA (NOW HIRING)

Materials Engineer

Bellevue, WA ยท On-site

$52 - $85/hr

Use fundamental welding engineering principles to develop weld designs, specifications, and processes for reactor design and licensing * Inform materials test programs to validate models of material ...

You must have knowledge across different material and trim constructions and processes involved in development, including engineering wrap, wefts, and wovens. Knowledge in raw material properties ...

Full Stack Engineer

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Supporting planned and inโ€‘flight initiatives with material engineering scope: * VSM: MC Operational Automation (TRPโ€‘7825) - backend work powering Mission Control UI improvements that reduce ...

Materials Engineer

Bellevue, WA ยท On-site

$52 - $85/hr

Develop material property correlations and advanced material performance models as input to ... A degree in Materials Science/Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical ...

Materials Engineer

Everett, WA ยท On-site

$159K - $208K/yr

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience * Hands on experience with ...

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS - Experience with prototyping and implementation - Bachelor's degree materials engineering, metallurgy, materials science, chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related technical ...

Materials & Process Engineer

Kent, WA ยท On-site

$129K - $193K/yr

Author, implement, and maintain M&P requirements, material specifications, testing protocols and engineering work standards related to Stoke material systems * Lead failure analysis and root cause ...

Test and M&PT Engineer 2

Everett, WA ยท On-site

$87K - $124K/yr

S. degree in Chemical Engineering, Material Science, Material Engineering or Mechanical Engineering. Experience in material allowable testing and material qualification testing is required.

Materials & Process Engineer

Kent, WA ยท On-site

$129K - $193K/yr

Author, implement, and maintain M&P requirements, material specifications, testing protocols and engineering work standards related to Stoke material systems * Lead failure analysis and root cause ...

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Material Engineering information

See Bellevue, WA salary details

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How much do material engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for material engineering in Bellevue, WA is $30.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.97 and $37.16 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 Bellevue, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Material Engineering jobs in Bellevue, WA are:

Infographic showing various Material Engineering job openings in Bellevue, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,715 per year, or $30.2 per hour.

Core Structural Materials Engineering Manager

TerraPower LLC.

Bellevue, WA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

TerraPower is a nuclear technology company based in Bellevue, Washington. At its core, the company is working to raise living standards globally through a more affordable, secure, and environmentally friendly form of nuclear energy along with innovations in medical isotopes to improve human health. In 2006, TerraPower originated with Bill Gates and a group of like-minded visionaries who evaluated the fundamental challenges to raising living standards around the world. They recognized energy access was crucial to the health and economic well-being of communities and decided that the private sector needed to take action and create energy sources that would advance global energy deployment. TerraPower's mission is to be a world leader in new nuclear technologies, while developing innovators and future leaders in the nuclear field. As a result, the company's activities in the fields of nuclear energy and related sciences are yielding significant innovations in the safety and economics of nuclear power, hybrid energy and medical applications - all for significant human health benefits."
TerraPower is seeking to hire highly motivated and forward-thinking professionals who are interested in focusing on advanced nuclear reactor research and development and influencing change within the nuclear power landscape and bringing forward the critical production of medical isotopes. TerraPower is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
Core Structural Materials Engineering Manager
The Natrium Core Structural Materials Engineering Manager reports directly to the Senior Manager, Core Material Qualification. This position is focused on managing the development and qualification of Natrium reactor core assembly materials, establishing a supply chain, and providing material performance data to the design organization. In this role, you will manage a dedicated team of engineers developing material performance tools and performing analysis and testing activities in support of TerraPower's advanced nuclear reactor project. This position also supports the senior manager in project scheduling and reporting activities.
Responsibilities
  • Oversee the development and deployment of material performance models for metallic materials used to fabricate reactor core assembly components
  • Approve material property datasets generated via Qualification of Existing Data per ASME NQA-1-2015
  • Oversee materials test programs to validate models of material performance and ensure materials development and testing efforts meet programmatic objectives of the Natrium reactor
  • Provide materials engineering support for the procurement of engineered components and systems including leading technical development of suppliers to increase the technology readiness level of key components
  • Oversee development, optimization, and qualification of new materials for sodium fast reactor applications
  • Coordinate with the Fuel Development and Qualification, Fuel Fabrication and Core Design groups to develop fuel technologies supporting Natrium Kemmerer Unit 1 and future commercial reactor concepts
  • Inform and support the licensing process for advanced reactor fuel
  • Work with the Senior Manager and Project Management team to develop and maintain the schedule and budget
  • Manage the Core Materials Qualification team to deliver project work within schedule and cost constraints
  • Communicate the status of engineering progress to the team, stakeholders and management
  • Assure compliance to procedures, standards and regulatory criteria
  • Ensure that engineering work is performed with a high level of integrity through rigorous enforcement of work processes and technical reviews of team deliverables
  • Demonstrate visible, continuous leadership in the areas of safety and Quality
  • Establish and enforce procedures to ensure a safe working environment
  • Implement quality assurance policy and requirements for the project
  • Interface with regulators, stakeholders, and customers on materials engineering design issues
  • Recommend staff changes (new additions, replacements due to attrition, de-staffing) and work with Human Resources to manage approved staffing changes
  • Support the development of direct reports through mentoring, training, and challenging assignments

Key Qualifications and Skills
  • 8+ years of related nuclear experience and a Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering discipline from an accredited university; or 8 years and a Master's degree; or a PhD with 5 years experience; or equivalent experience
  • Proven track record in successful management and leadership with 2 years of previous supervisory or mentoring experience or equivalent people leadership experience
  • A solid understanding of metallurgy including fabrication and thermomechanical processing of ferrous (e.g., ferritic-martensitic steels) and nonferrous (e.g., nickel-base, refractory) alloys
  • Advanced knowledge and experience in nuclear quality programs, design control, and configuration management principles, practices, and tools
  • Experience working in stringent quality systems (e.g., ISO-9001, AS9100) is required, experience working to ASME NQA-1, 10 CFR 50 Appendix B highly desired
  • A general understanding of the design of reactor plant and related systems and experience with sodium cooled fast reactors would be considered a plus
  • Self-starter and possess ability to perform both individually and as a team contributor; proven ability to direct small teams with minimal oversight
  • A high degree of trust and integrity, able to communicate openly, and display respect and a desire to foster teamwork
  • Proven track record in planning, budgeting, and execution of testing or modeling activities
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills

This position is subject to qualification requirements in accordance with ANSI/ANS 3.1. Candidates must meet the minimum education and experience criteria applicable to the role, including relevant nuclear industry experience where required. Verification of data will be part of the hiring process.
Job Functions:
Job Functions are physical actions and/or working conditions associated with the position. These functions may also constitute essential functions for the job which the employee must be able to fulfill, with or without accommodation. Information provided below is to help describe the job so that the applicant has a reasonable understanding of the job duties/expectations. An applicant's ability to perform and/or tolerate these actions and conditions will be discussed and workplace accommodations may be made on a case-by-case basis following an individualized assessment of the applicant and other considerations, including but not limited to any governing safety standards.
  • Motor Abilities: Sitting for extended periods, bending/stooping, grasping/gripping, fine motor control (hands)
  • Physical exertion and/or requirements: Minimal, with ability to safely lift up to 25 pounds.
  • Repetitive work: Prolonged
  • Special Senses: Visual and audio focused work
  • Work Conditions: Stairs, typing/keyboard, standard and/or sitting working environment of >8 hours/day
  • Travel required 0-10%

TerraPower's technology is controlled for export by various agencies of the U.S. Government. TerraPower must evaluate applicants who are foreign nationals (other than asylees, refugees, or lawful permanent residents) in accordance with U.S. Government export control requirements. To facilitate TerraPower's export control reviews, you will be asked as part of the application process to identify whether you are a U.S. Citizen or national, asylee, refugee, or lawful permanent resident of the United States. Government export authorization approval times vary. Based on the business needs for a particular position, TerraPower may not consider a foreign national from a country if it is impracticable to obtain timely Government export approval.
Job details
Salary Range : $168,316 - $252,475
Job Type: Full-time
Any salary offered within the posted salary band is based on market data and commensurate with the selected candidate's qualifications and experience. This range is specific to Washington State.
Benefits:
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Salary, eligible to participate in discretionary short-term incentive payments
  • Comprehensive Medical and Wellness Benefits
    • Medical
    • Vision
    • Dental
    • Life and Disability
    • Gender Affirmation Benefits
  • Parental Leave
  • 401k Plan
  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
    • 21 days of annually accrued PTO
  • Generous Holiday Schedule
    • 10 paid holidays
  • Relocation Assistance
  • Professional and Educational Support Opportunities

TerraPower Career and Benefits information: https://www.terrapower.com/contact-us/careers/