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Material Science Engineer Jobs in Mississippi (NOW HIRING)

Steel Dynamics, Inc.

Application Engineer

Columbus, MS · On-site

Bachelor of Science in Metallurgy, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering. Steel Dynamics, Inc., and all affiliated entities are equal opportunity employers. Employment ...

Three Saints Bay, LLC

Senior Scientist (5155)

Vicksburg, MS · On-site

$85K - $117K/yr

PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Nanotechnology, Chemical Engineering, or related field. * Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in nanoparticle synthesis, laboratory research, and materials ...

Varsity Tutors

Physical Science Tutor

Starkville, MS · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... engineering applications, and everyday phenomena. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction ... Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple ...

Varsity Tutors

Data Science Tutor

Starkville, MS · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... programming, hypothesis testing, and communication of data-driven insights. Ability to explain ... Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple ...

Steel Dynamics, Inc.

Lab Metallurgist

Columbus, MS · On-site

$81K - $99K/yr

Other duties may be assigned as needed Qualifications Required * 4 year degree in Metallurgical and Materials Science Engineering or Materials Science. (Additional 4 year degrees in other majors may ...

Steel Dynamics, Inc.

Lab Metallurgist

Columbus, MS · On-site

$81K - $99K/yr

Other duties may be assigned as needed Qualifications Required * 4 year degree in Metallurgical and Materials Science Engineering or Materials Science. (Additional 4 year degrees in other majors may ...

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Material Science Engineer information

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$36K

$95.4K

$149.6K

How much do material science engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for material science engineer in Mississippi is $95,406.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,800.00 and $110,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.

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. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as innovation and technological advancements continue, requiring skills in research, testing, and materials characterization tools like microscopy and spectroscopy.

What do material science engineers do?

Material science engineers research and develop new materials or improve existing ones for various applications, such as aerospace, electronics, and healthcare. They analyze material properties, use tools like microscopy and spectroscopy, and often work in laboratories or manufacturing environments to ensure materials meet performance and safety standards.

What is the average salary for a material science engineer in the US?

The average salary for a material science engineer in the US is approximately $80,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Professionals with advanced skills in materials characterization and proficiency with tools like CAD or simulation software may earn higher salaries.

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

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

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

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

Material Science Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Material Science Engineer job openings in Mississippi as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,406 per year, or $45.9 per hour.

Polymer Processing Engineer

University of Southern Mississippi

Hattiesburg, MS • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

University Of Southern Mississippi rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

442nd of 631 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Polymer Processing Engineer
The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Polymer Processing Engineer.
Position Details
Location
Hattiesburg
118 College Drive
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001
United States
Division
Mississipi Polymer Science Institute
Position Type
Staff
Employment Status
Full Time
Grant Funded
No
Pay Grade
Posting Close Date
October 1, 2026
Special Instructions to ApplicantsApplicants must be currently authorized to work in theUnited States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. TheUniversity will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).
Job SummaryA customer-focused individual responsible for all aspects of polymer processing projects: material selection, equipment selection, CAD design, processing/testing/reporting based on client needs. Excellent at troubleshooting and root cause analysis, maintaining quality compliance, and working cross-functionally. The successful candidate will be a mid-level polymer engineer/scientist with commercial experience, mechanically inclined, has speed-of-business focus, a deep understanding of polymers, strong communication skills, is statistically competent, and is an independent contributor. Customer projects primarily focus on creating and improving products, manufacturing efficiency, cycle times, and defect reduction over many market applications.
Primary Job Duties and Responsibilities
  1. Leads and manages technical projects from initiation through completion, including client consultations, project planning, technical problem-solving, stakeholder coordination, product development schedules, and project documentation. Manages relationships with clients, vendors, and cross-functional teams and represents MPI at technical conferences, presentations, exhibitions, and educational and community outreach activities.
  2. Leads polymer processing and manufacturing operations utilizing injection molding, extrusion, Brabender mixing, thermoforming, 3D printing, composite manufacturing, and related equipment. Sets up, qualifies, operates, troubleshoots, and optimizes manufacturing processes; evaluates production data and process performance; and provides on-site technical support to clients for extrusion, molding, and related processing operations.
  3. Manages molds, dies, processing machinery, materials, and other manufacturing resources, including design, procurement, calibration, maintenance, modification, upgrades, and repairs. Provides technical input on mold and die designs, mold-flow analyses, finite element analyses, and thermal analyses and ensures equipment and resources remain operational and compliant.
  4. Develops, validates, documents, and continuously improves polymer formulations and manufacturing processes to achieve desired material properties, product quality, and manufacturability. Applies data acquisition, process capability analysis, Statistical Process Control (SPC), Design of Experiments (DOE), simulation, and root cause analysis to identify and implement process improvements.
  5. Conducts product performance, acceptance, mechanical, thermal, and material property testing and evaluates materials and finished products for compliance with customer, industry, quality, and regulatory requirements. Develops and implements quality-control procedures, analyzes testing results, prepares technical and compliance reports, and ensures adherence to environmental, health, and safety requirements.
  6. Develops and maintains standard operating procedures, work instructions, technical documentation, engineering records, and manufacturing records. Provides employee and customer training on equipment, manufacturing processes, and quality procedures and maintains knowledge of emerging polymer technologies and manufacturing practices.
  7. Supports sustainable manufacturing and product development initiatives, including the evaluation and development of materials and processes that promote reuse, recyclability, and composability while balancing product performance, manufacturability, and environmental considerations.
  8. Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum QualificationsBachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Plastics Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field. Three (3) to ten (10) years of experience in a manufacturing environment, including at least five (5) years of direct experience with polymer materials, injection molding, extrusion, 3D printing, composite manufacturing, or related processing equipment. Experience working directly with customers or clients.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA)
  • Knowledge of thermoplastic and thermoset polymers, composites, bioplastics, polymer structure-property relationships, rheology, thermodynamics, compounding, processing, and quality control.
  • Knowledge of polymer characterization techniques, standardized testing methods, and related testing equipment.
  • Knowledge of Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, Total Quality Management, root cause analysis, continuous improvement, and quality assurance principles.
  • Knowledge of sustainable polymer and manufacturing practices, including recyclable, bio-based, and compostable materials.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Excel, statistical analysis software such as Minitab, CAD and 3D modeling software such as SolidWorks or Fusion 360, 3D-printing slicing software, and mold-flow analysis software.
  • Skill in analyzing and resolving complex polymer processing, product design, manufacturing, and quality issues.
  • Project management skills, including the ability to coordinate technical projects, establish priorities, and manage multiple projects and deadlines.
  • Ability to analyze technical and manufacturing data and communicate findings, recommendations, and conclusions clearly and concisely.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary groups, including engineers, chemists, equipment operators, supply chain personnel, product development teams, clients, inventors, startups, and organizational leadership.
  • Ability to provide technical leadership, training, and guidance to internal and external stakeholders.
  • Ability to adapt to evolving materials, technologies, manufacturing processes, and business needs.
  • Ability to travel, including occasional overnight travel.

Preferred QualificationsSix Sigmacertification and project management certification preferred. Familiarity withIndustry 4.0 technologies and smart manufacturing environments, includingrobotics, digital twins, and predictive analytics. Knowledge of sustainableproduct and manufacturing practices, including design for recyclability,circular economy principles, and environmentally responsible materials.
About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of SouthernMississippi has remained dedicated to preparingstudents for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 studentsin Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across theMississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. Weare a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one ofthe nation's leading research institutions.
Southern Miss is known for pioneering work inpolymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringinglanguage to children with communication disorders. We are also a nationalleader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography,nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.
We produce graduates ready to enterfields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs suchas computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We're developing the next generation ofbusiness leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages byproducing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition ofexcellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nationaccredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, ourstudent-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion andpersistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.
The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.

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