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Material Science Engineer Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Quality Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$69K - $90K/yr

Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering or Equivalent Relevant Discipline (Mechanical or Material Science Engineering), Preferred * Three-Five (3-5) Years Relevant Experience, A Plus * Ability to ...

Bachelor's degree in Material Science, Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field Preferred Qualifications * Experience with project development, implementation and management

$85 - $120/hr

... in Materials Science & Engineering, Ceramic Engineering/Science, or a closely related field (Ceramics, Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, Solid State/Applied Physics, Chemistry with solid-state ...

PA · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Required Minimum Qualifications Education/Certifications: BS in a related technical degree required - Engineering, Chemistry or Material Science preferred. Skills and Experience: 6-10 years of ...

New

POSITION SPECIFICS The Materials Science and Engineering Department, within the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences at Penn State is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar to perform research under the ...

Bachelor's degree in Material Science, Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field Preferred Qualifications * Experience with project development, implementation and management

Bachelor's degree in Material Science, Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field Preferred Qualifications * Experience with project development, implementation and management

Showing results 41-60

Material Science Engineer information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$38.1K

$101K

$158.4K

How much do material science engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for material science engineer in Pennsylvania is $100,980.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,200.00 and $116,800.00 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 Pennsylvania?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Material Science Engineer job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,980 per year, or $48.5 per hour.

Materials Science Lab Internship

ECS Mid-Atlantic, LLC

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description


Responsibilities
  • Perform specific tasks associated with laboratory tests on construction materials under the direction of others.
  • Receive samples and label, bag and prepare paperwork for testing operations
  • Support project management tracking in ECS software systems
  • Perform photographs of samples
  • Cut and/or crush concrete samples for test preparation
  • Prepare polished sections of concrete for microscopic analysis
  • Perform chemistry tests of concrete
  • Maintain the laboratory cleanliness and organization
  • Notify supervisor of broken or missing equipment
  • Other duties as assigned

Want to experience what this job entails? Click below:


Qualifications
  • Actively pursuing a degree in Earth Sciences, Materials Science, Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Civil/Structural Engineering or other degree relevant to the study of building materials.
  • Interest in materials science as applied to building materials
  • Dependable, detail-oriented, and organized
  • Demonstrates good communication skills (speaking, reading, and writing)
  • Limited knowledge of laboratory equipment and test methods
  • Limited knowledge of sample preparation and test methods
  • Ability to interpret data and properly record collected information
  • Proficient with computers, Microsoft Word, and Excel
  • Must be able to stand for long periods and lift a minimum of 40 pounds a number of times each day
  • If driving for, or on behalf of, any ECS subsidiary, a valid driver's license is required

About Us

ECS Group of Companies (ECS) was founded in 1988 with the goal to raise the standards of professional engineering consulting. Today, we are a leader in geotechnical, construction materials, environmental and building science + infrastructure consulting services. We are employee-owned with more than 3,00 employees in 100+ offices and testing facilities coast to coast. ECS is currently ranked #60 in Engineering News-Record's Top 500 Design Firms (April 2026), #148 in Engineering News-Record's Top 200 Environmental Firms (October 2025) and #38 in Zweig Group's Hot Firm List (June 2026). For additional information about ECS, visit:www.ecslimited.com.

ECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To learn more, clickhere.