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Material Science Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Material and Process Engineer 3

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

A Bachelor of Science in a STEM discipline is required, preferably in Materials Science and Engineering. Experience requirements vary with education level: 5 years with a Bachelor's, 3 years with a ...

Product Design FEA Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Description As the cornerstone between material science and mechanical engineering, you will design experiments to characterize materials, advance mathematical descriptions and simulation workflows ...

Material Applications Engineer

Riverbank, CA

$82K - $115K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This role is ideal for an engineering professional who enjoys material science, manufacturing, product quality improvement, supplier collaboration, and hands-on problem-solving in a multi-site ...

Product Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$105K - $115K/yr

Experience in specifying, operating, designing, or maintaining equipment for industrial production and automation. * BS Degree in Mechanical/Electrical/Material Science Engineering or equivalent ...

Showing results 41-60

Material Science Engineer information

See California salary details

$37.5K

$99.4K

$155.9K

How much do material science engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for material science engineer in California is $99,419.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a material science engineer?

To thrive as a Material Science Engineer, you need a solid background in materials engineering, chemistry, and physics, usually supported by a degree in materials science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory analysis tools, materials characterization instruments (like SEM, XRD), and simulation software (such as MATLAB or ANSYS) is commonly required. Problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective collaboration are crucial soft skills for innovating and working on multidisciplinary projects. These competencies ensure the development of advanced materials and solutions that meet industry standards and drive technological progress.

What is the difference between Material Science Engineer vs Materials Engineer?

AspectMaterial Science EngineerMaterials Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science, Engineering, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departmentsManufacturing plants, R&D labs, quality control
Industry UsageResearch, development, testing of new materialsMaterial selection, processing, and quality assurance

Both roles focus on materials, but Material Science Engineers primarily engage in research and development of new materials, while Materials Engineers often work on applying and processing materials in manufacturing. The roles overlap in credentials and work environments, but their core responsibilities differ slightly.

What are the most common challenges material science engineers face when working on cross-functional project teams?

Material Science Engineers often collaborate with professionals from mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing disciplines, which can present challenges in aligning technical requirements and timelines. Communication gaps may arise due to differences in technical language or priorities, making it essential to clearly convey material properties and limitations. Successfully navigating these challenges typically involves proactive collaboration, flexibility, and a willingness to learn about related fields to ensure project goals are met and innovative solutions are developed.

Are material science engineers in demand?

Material science engineers are in demand due to their expertise in developing new materials for industries such as aerospace, automotive, and electronics. The field offers growth opportunities, especially for those skilled in nanotechnology, polymers, and composites, with employment prospects driven by innovation and technological advancement.

What is a material science engineer?

Material Science Engineers are professionals who study, develop, and test materials used to create a wide range of products, from electronics to medical devices to construction materials. They apply principles of chemistry, physics, and engineering to understand how materials behave and how they can be improved or adapted for specific uses. Their work often involves researching new materials, analyzing their properties, and collaborating with other engineers or scientists to solve complex problems. Material Science Engineers play a crucial role in advancing technology and making products safer, stronger, and more efficient.

What are popular job titles related to Material Science Engineer jobs in California?

For Material Science Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Material Science Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Material Science Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Material Science Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Material Science Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Material Science Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,419 per year, or $47.8 per hour.

Materials Scientist/Engineer (Ph.D.)

Exponent Inc.

Menlo Park, CA

$140K - $157K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Exponent is the only premium engineering and scientific consulting firm with the depth and breadth of expertise to solve our clients’ most profoundly unique, unprecedented, and urgent challenges.  

Our vision is to engage multidisciplinary teams of science, engineering, and regulatory experts to empower clients with solutions that create a safer, healthier, more sustainable world. For over five decades, we've connected the lessons of past failures with tomorrow's solutions to advise clients as they innovate technologically complex products and processes, ensure the safety and health of their users, and address the challenges of sustainability.  

Join our team of experts with degrees from top programs at over 500 universities and extensive experience spanning a variety of industries. At Exponent, you’ll contribute to the diverse pool of ideas, talents, backgrounds, and experiences that drives our collaborative teamwork and breakthrough insights. Plus, we help you grow your career through mentoring, sponsorship, and a culture of learning. Thanks for your interest in joining our team! 

Key statistics: 

  • 950+ Consultants 
  • 640+ Ph.D.s 
  • 90+ Disciplines 
  • 30+ Offices globally 

We are currently seeking a Materials Scientist / Engineer for our Materials Science and Electrochemistry Practice in Menlo Park, CA. In this role you will work as part of a team to perform broad materials science investigations of complex problems for our clients, particularly in the areas of product development, quality control, and product reliability.


  • Conducting hands-on failure analysis
  • Planning and executing laboratory tests
  • Field inspections
  • Materials characterization
  • Experimental method development

  • Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering or related discipline, combined with a background including significant Materials Science related coursework and research experience  
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work within project teams with a strong desire to contribute
  • Knowledge of materials characterization techniques such as SEM, FIB, TEM, EDS, XPS, SIMS, FTIR,  X-ray, mechanical testing methods, or nanoindentation is required.
  • Experience designing and conducting materials characterization and analyses
  • Experience with thin film and electronic materials is preferred
  • Presently legally authorized to work in the United States.  No immigration sponsorship or processing required. 

Applicants are encouraged to submit a CV (Curriculum Vitae) with publications (feel free to include publications that are in review or pending) [not restricted to 1 page].


To learn more about life at Exponent and our impact, please visit the following links:
https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent
https://www.exponent.com/company/our-impact

Attracting, inspiring, developing, and rewarding exceptional people with diverse backgrounds and expertise are central to our corporate culture. Our diverse team allows us to provide better value to our clients and enjoy an enriched work environment.  

Our firm is committed to offering a variety of programs and resources to support health and well-being. We believe that providing competitive benefits as well as compensation and recognition programs empowers our staff to do work that makes a difference. 


At Exponent, we have found that in-person interactions deepen employee engagement and are crucial for development, for realizing the full potential of our talented and diverse teams, and for building a more inclusive workplace where all have a sense of belonging. In our offices, you can expect a supportive culture and a collaborative, dynamic, multi-disciplinary work environment. Our consultants engage in-person in the office unless they are traveling for client work or other business activities.

We value the rich lives our colleagues enjoy outside of work and understand that work/life balance is critical to our employees and their well-being. Consultants have the autonomy to balance their work and personal schedules so you can meet with clients, visit inspection sites, attend conferences, and make time for priorities outside of work, too. It is this flexible, agile work style and working hours that allow our teams to drive innovation and results in their own ways, while meeting the needs of clients. #LI-Onsite


Our consultants are rewarded for their technical and business contributions and have an opportunity to plan for future success and career growth. Exponent's total compensation plan is consistent with its expectations of the quality and quantity of work performed and with the professional standards set by Exponent. At the Associate and Senior Associate level, total compensation includes base salary, bi-weekly bonuses for high-intensity efforts, annual bonus and 401(k) employer contribution of 7% of base salary.

The base salary range for this position is dependent on experience and capabilities which will be assessed during the interview process.


USD $140,000.00 - USD $157,000.00 /Yr.

Access benefits information on our Life@Exponent page:  https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent 

 
Exponent is a proud equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status. 

 
If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, you may email us at HR-Accommodations@exponent.com. 


US-CA-Menlo Park