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Material Science Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Parsons

Chemical Process Engineer

Kingsport, TN

Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, nuclear engineering, material science, material science engineering, mechanical engineering, or another related field and at least 10+ years of related work ...

Teknor Apex

Process Engineer

Brownsville, TN

QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES: * BS or MS in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Polymer ... Good understanding of the formulation, material science and equipment involved. * Must be able to ...

Amazon

Hardware Dev Engr III - AMZ27481.1

Nashville, TN · On-site

$135K - $183K/yr

Employer will accept a Bachelor's degree or foreign equivalent in Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Material Science, or a related field and five years of experience in the job offered or in a ...

Teknor Apex Company

Process Engineer

Brownsville, TN · On-site

QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES: * BS or MS in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Polymer ... Good understanding of the formulation, material science and equipment involved. * Must be able to ...

LG

Quality Lab Engineer

Clarksville, TN

$62K - $80K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Material Science, Engineering, or a related field is preferred. Requirements: * Minimum 3 years' experience in manufacturing/operations engineering, or a technical ...

LG

Quality Lab Engineer

Clarksville, TN · On-site

$62K - $80K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Material Science, Engineering, or a related field is preferred. Requirements: * Minimum 3 years' experience in manufacturing/operations engineering, or a technical ...

LG

Quality Lab Engineer

Clarksville, TN · On-site

$62K - $80K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Material Science, Engineering, or a related field is preferred. Requirements: Minimum 3 years' experience in manufacturing/operations engineering, or a technical field ...

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All JobsMaterial Science Engineer JobsMaterial Science Engineer Jobs in Tennessee

Material Science Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$34.5K

$91.4K

$143.4K

How much do material science engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for material science engineer in Tennessee is $91,431.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,600.00 and $105,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Material Science Engineer, and why are they important?

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.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-demand industries or leadership roles.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-paying engineering positions typically require advanced degrees, certifications, and expertise in high-demand areas or management responsibilities.

What is the highest salary for a material engineer?

The highest salaries for materials science engineers can exceed $130,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, advanced degrees, or working in specialized industries such as aerospace or semiconductor manufacturing. Senior engineers with leadership roles or specialized skills in materials characterization and testing tend to earn the top salaries.

What are Material Science Engineers?

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 do material science engineers do?

Material science engineers research and develop new materials and improve existing ones for various applications, such as electronics, aerospace, and healthcare. They analyze material properties, use tools like microscopes and testing equipment, and often work in laboratories or manufacturing environments to ensure materials meet performance and safety standards.
What are popular job titles related to Material Science Engineer jobs in Tennessee? For Material Science Engineer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Material Science Engineer jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Material Science Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Material Science Engineer jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Material Science Engineer job openings:
Material Science Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Material Science Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,431 per year, or $44 per hour.

Materials Science Engineering Fellow - Masters or PhD preferred (6-12 month duration)

Volkswagen AG

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$30 - $33/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Worldwide, the Volkswagen Group has a long tradition of dramatic innovations. The Volkswagen Group with its headquarters in Wolfsburg, Germany is one of the world's leading automobile manufacturers and the largest carmaker in Europe. The Group comprises twelve brands from seven European countries: Volkswagen Passenger Cars, Audi, SEAT, ŠKODA, Bentley, Bugatti, Lamborghini, Porsche, Ducati, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, Scania and MAN.
Brief Role Description
At the Innovation & Engineering Center California (IECC), we represent the Volkswagen Group in applied research and development. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, we create bold new ideas for the Volkswagen, Audi, Bentley, Lamborghini, Bugatti and Porsche brands. We're a team of engineers, designers, scientists, and psychologists looking to develop innovations for future generations of cars, and to transfer technologies from many industries and research institutions into the automotive domain. Our mission is to drive change which means we are not only impacting one of the world's largest car makers, but also the lives of millions of people. Are you ready to join us?
The Innovation Hub Knoxville, an organization within Innovation Center California, is responsible for Material Research and Innovation in the North American Region. The intern will be part of the project team working on topics that include but not limited to material characterization, Life Cycle Assessment, and cost calculations of production processes.
Role Responsibilities
  • Support material science related laboratory work.
  • Material characterization equipment training.
  • Support material characterization.
  • Support with Life Cycle Assessment and cost calculations of production processes.

Qualification requirements
Qualifications
  • Must be enrolled at a University/College or Graduation date must be within the last six months.
  • Preference given to Masters or PhD stdents.Automotive, Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial, Aerospace Engineering or comparable field of study.
  • Material characterization knowledge is a benefit.Knowledge in creation Life Cycle Assessment is beneficial.

#LI-DNI
Compensation Data
In Knoxville, Tennessee, the hourly rates for this role are based on level of education:
  • Undergraduate (Junior or Senior): $28/hour
  • Graduate (Master's): $30/hour
  • PhD: $33/hour

Volkswagen's roots in Silicon Valley sprout the tech-driven future of transportation
Volkswagen Group of America is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome and encourage applicants from all backgrounds, and do not discriminate based on race, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, color, gender identity/expression, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable laws.
This role description is a guideline and does not create contractual rights between the Company and any of its applicants. The Company does not enter into any type of employment contract, implied or written, with its applicants regarding job security.
This Organization participates in E-Verify. We maintain a drug free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.
Worldwide, the Volkswagen Group has a long tradition of dramatic innovations. The Volkswagen Group with its headquarters in Wolfsburg, Germany is one of the world's leading automobile manufacturers and the largest carmaker in Europe. The Group comprises twelve brands from seven European countries: Volkswagen Passenger Cars, Audi, SEAT, ŠKODA, Bentley, Bugatti, Lamborghini, Porsche, Ducati, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, Scania and MAN.
Brief Role Description
At the Innovation & Engineering Center California (IECC), we represent the Volkswagen Group in applied research and development. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, we create bold new ideas for the Volkswagen, Audi, Bentley, Lamborghini, Bugatti and Porsche brands. We're a team of engineers, designers, scientists, and psychologists looking to develop innovations for future generations of cars, and to transfer technologies from many industries and research institutions into the automotive domain. Our mission is to drive change which means we are not only impacting one of the world's largest car makers, but also the lives of millions of people. Are you ready to join us?
The Innovation Hub Knoxville, an organization within Innovation Center California, is responsible for Material Research and Innovation in the North American Region. The intern will be part of the project team working on topics that include but not limited to material characterization, Life Cycle Assessment, and cost calculations of production processes.
Role Responsibilities
  • Support material science related laboratory work.
  • Material characterization equipment training.
  • Support material characterization.
  • Support with Life Cycle Assessment and cost calculations of production processes.

Qualification requirements
Qualifications
  • Must be enrolled at a University/College or Graduation date must be within the last six months.
  • Preference given to Masters or PhD stdents.Automotive, Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial, Aerospace Engineering or comparable field of study.
  • Material characterization knowledge is a benefit.Knowledge in creation Life Cycle Assessment is beneficial.

#LI-DNI
Compensation Data
In Knoxville, Tennessee, the hourly rates for this role are based on level of education:
  • Undergraduate (Junior or Senior): $28/hour
  • Graduate (Master's): $30/hour
  • PhD: $33/hour

Volkswagen's roots in Silicon Valley sprout the tech-driven future of transportation
Volkswagen Group of America is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome and encourage applicants from all backgrounds, and do not discriminate based on race, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, color, gender identity/expression, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable laws.
This role description is a guideline and does not create contractual rights between the Company and any of its applicants. The Company does not enter into any type of employment contract, implied or written, with its applicants regarding job security.
This Organization participates in E-Verify. We maintain a drug free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.
Job ID: 28557
Company: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
Location:

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