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Material Science Engineer Jobs in Birmingham, AL

Process Engineer

Leeds, AL ยท On-site

$77K - $102K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical discipline. * Demonstrated ability to analyze complex process data, identify root causes ...

Process Engineer

Sterrett, AL ยท On-site

$77K - $102K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical discipline. * Demonstrated ability to analyze complex process data, identify root causes ...

Process Engineer

Vincent, AL ยท On-site

$77K - $102K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical discipline. * Demonstrated ability to analyze complex process data, identify root causes ...

Process Engineer

Vandiver, AL ยท On-site

$77K - $102K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical discipline. * Demonstrated ability to analyze complex process data, identify root causes ...

Showing results 21-40

Material Science Engineer information

See Birmingham, AL salary details

$35.6K

$94.4K

$148.1K

How much do material science engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for material science engineer in Birmingham, AL is $94,411.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,000.00 and $109,200.00 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 Birmingham, AL?

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

What job categories do people searching Material Science Engineer jobs in Birmingham, AL look for?

The top searched job categories for Material Science Engineer jobs in Birmingham, AL are:

What cities near Birmingham, AL are hiring for Material Science Engineer jobs?

Cities near Birmingham, AL with the most Material Science Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Material Science Engineer job openings in Birmingham, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,411 per year, or $45.4 per hour.

Process Engineer

50010 HM Southeast Cement LLC

Birmingham, AL โ€ข On-site

$77K - $102K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Line of Business: Cement & White

About Us

Heidelberg Materials is one of the world's largest suppliers of building materials. Heidelberg Materials North America operates over 450 locations across the U.S. and Canada with approximately 9,000 employees.
 

What You'll Be Doing

  • Optimize cement manufacturing processes to improve production efficiency, quality, and cost performance.
  • Analyze process data and identify opportunities for continuous improvement and operational excellence.
  • Collaborate with plant operations, maintenance, and quality teams to troubleshoot process challenges and implement solutions.
  • Support environmental, health, and safety initiatives while ensuring compliance with operational standards.
  • Lead and participate in projects focused on process upgrades, reliability improvements, and performance enhancements.
     

What Are We Looking For

  • Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical discipline.
  • Demonstrated ability to analyze complex process data, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions.
  • Strong knowledge of cement manufacturing processes, process control systems, and continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Effective communication and collaboration skills with the ability to work across multiple teams and functions.
  • Commitment to safety, quality, operational excellence, and achieving business objectives.
     

Work Environment

  • Primarily based in a cement manufacturing facility with regular exposure to industrial equipment and production areas.
  • Frequent interaction with operations, maintenance, quality, and leadership teams.
  • May require travel to other company locations, project sites, or training opportunities.
  • Must be able to work in an active industrial environment and comply with all safety requirements and personal protective equipment (PPE) standards.
     

What We Offer

  • Competitive base salary, $77,180 to $102,900, and participation in our annual incentive plan.
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with an automatic company contribution as well as matching contributions.
  • Highly competitive benefits programs, including:
    • Medical, Dental, and Vision along with Prescription Drug Benefits
    • Health Saving Savings Account (HSA), Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
    • AD&D, Short- and Long-Term Disability Coverage as well as Basic Life Insurance
    • Paid Bonding Leave, 15 days of Paid Vacation, 40 hours of Paid Sick Leave and 10 Paid Holidays
       

Equal Opportunity Employer - Minority / Female / Veteran / Disabled

As part of our hiring process, we may use AI-assisted tools to support the screening and evaluation of candidate applications and interviews. These tools help streamline the initial assessment, but all decisions about candidate advancement are made by human recruiters and hiring managers. While technology supports early steps, every interview will be handled by experienced recruiters and hiring managers to provide a personal touch.