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Material Science Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Material Characterization Scientist Entegris is currently seeking a Polymer ... Working with scientists and engineers in product design and production to design and execute DOE ...

Working with scientistsand engineers in product design and production to design and execute DOE ... PhD in Polymer Science, Materials Scienceor related field required * 3+ years ofpost-graduate ...

Materials Engineer III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$106K - $140K/yr

Required * BS or greater in Materials Science/Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemistry or a related technical discipline from an accredited university. * 5+ years of ...

... engineers from diverse backgrounds on a broad spectrum of applications in bioengineering, chemistry, materials science, and physics * Get involved in all aspects of the application development ...

... engineers from diverse backgrounds on a broad spectrum of applications in bioengineering, chemistry, materials science, and physics * Get involved in all aspects of the application development ...

... engineers from diverse backgrounds on a broad spectrum of applications in bioengineering, chemistry, materials science, and physics * Get involved in all aspects of the application development ...

Sr Engineer R & D

Summit, IL · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

... material science and process fundamentals to our polymer modified asphalt applications. The work ... The PMA Engineer will work closely with other team members on the Asphalt R&D Team, and with a ...

Sr Engineer R & D

Summit, IL · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

... material science and process fundamentals to our polymer modified asphalt applications. The work ... The PMA Engineer will work closely with other team members on the Asphalt R&D Team, and with a ...

Coursework or experience in textile testing, textile science, fabric engineering, material development, quality assurance, or product development strongly preferred. * Working knowledge of Excel ...

TERA-print is in search of an Instrument Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will work ... chemistry, materials science, physics, and biology. Already, researchers from more than 50 ...

TERA-print is in search of an Instrument Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will work ... chemistry, materials science, physics, and biology. Already, researchers from more than 50 ...

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Material Science Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$39.1K

$103.8K

$162.8K

How much do material science engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for material science engineer in Chicago, IL is $103,775.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $120,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Material Science Engineer, 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 job categories do people searching Material Science Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Material Science Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Material Science Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Material Science Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Material Science Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Part Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,775 per year, or $49.9 per hour.
Research Associate , Solid State/Material Science

Research Associate , Solid State/Material Science

AbbVie

North Chicago, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


AbbVie rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 100 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 74 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Company Description

About AbbVie

AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines and solutions that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas including immunology, oncology and neuroscience - and products and services in our Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.com. Follow @abbvie on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.

Job Description

The Molecular Profiling and Drug Delivery (MPDD) function within the Synthetic Molecules CMC organization is accountable for a broad range of deliverables across various stages of drug discovery and development. During lead optimization and through candidate selection, MPDD scientists utilize state of the art automation and computational tools supported by expertise in biopharmaceutics, drug delivery, and solid-state chemistry to collaboratively progress candidates with higher probability of success into development and advise clinical formulation strategy. From candidate selection through clinical proof of concept and product launch, MPDD scientists work in cross functional teams to identify the commercial solid form of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) and establish structure-property-performance correlations to help deliver robust commercial processes and align control strategies across drug substance and product. They also transition drug substance isolation processes and relevant physical characterization methods to commercial manufacturing sites and work within teams to ensure successful regulatory submissions.

Solid State Chemist/Materials Scientist within AbbVie's MPDD organization work in cross-functional teams to support projects through all phases of development (Lead Optimization to Process Validation). In early development, they identify solid form of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) and develop scalable API isolation processes for early clinical studies. During Phase II, they work with engineers and formulation scientists to establish structure-property-performance correlations and deliver commercial API isolation processes with optimized physical properties. In the final stages of development, they collaboratively transition isolation processes and relevant physical characterization methods into the commercial manufacturing sites. Throughout development, they work with relevant teams to ensure successful regulatory submissions. In order to develop and implement robust solutions, Solid State Chemists/Materials Scientist at AbbVie use a very diverse set of experimental, analytical and modeling techniques and tools.

Job Description:

AbbVie's MPDD organization is seeking a highly motivated, talented, and creative scientist who is passionate in solid-state and materials characterization for an Associate Scientist I position. This person will support solid form development of clinical candidates, drug substance process development, and materials characterization spanning the drug substance and drug product interface.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Independently execute solid-state activities, including polymorph screening, salt screening, and materials characterization to support pipeline projects.
  • Support API crystallization, isolation, and milling process development to enable timely clinical deliveries with MPDD project leads.
  • Demonstrate strong data interpretation and troubleshooting skills by evaluating experiments and instrumentation, and by suggesting, designing, and pursuing relevant experiments.
  • Lead and support group safety, lab management, instrument maintenance, and overall laboratory operations to ensure efficient use of time, equipment, supplies, and reagents.
  • Learn and effectively implement new experimental techniques and protocols, while applying basic scientific principles and consulting relevant literature to place data in proper scientific context.
  • Maintain excellent documentation of all work, including electronic lab notebooks, test methods, and protocols.
  • Present results and experimental information in team meetings and communicate scientific findings clearly.
  • Understand and adhere to corporate standards regarding code of conduct, safety, appropriate handling of materials, controlled drug and radioactive compounds, GxP compliance, and animal care where applicable.
Qualifications

Basic:

  • BS with 0-3 years of experience in pharmaceutical or related industry. Preferred educational background includes but is not restricted to Chemical Engineering, Organic Chemistry, Physical Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or Materials Science.
  • Theoretical and practical knowledge to carry out job functions.

Preferred:

  • A working knowledge of drug substance physical properties, polymorphism, and solid-state characterizations (e.g. particle size, microscopy, flowability, surface area, thermal analysis, PXRD, etc.) relevant to pharmaceutical development and drug product manufacturability/stability.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Strong organizational, planning and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing conditions.
  • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional team setting.

Key Competencies:

  • Independently generate precise, reliable and reproducible data in a timely manner.
  • Demonstrate experimental precision and strong data interpretation skills.
  • Competently perform routine tasks with attention to detail. Independently review and scrutinize both own and others' data.
  • Learn fast, grasp the "essence" and can change the course quickly where indicated.
  • Raise the bar and is never satisfied with the status quo.
  • Create a learning environment, open to suggestions and experimentation for improvement.
  • Embrace the ideas of others, nurture innovation and manage innovation to reality.
  • Keep accurate and current experiments and/or records of research according to AbbVie policies.

Understand and adhere to corporate standards regarding code of conduct, safety, appropriate handling of materials, controlled drug and radioactive compounds, GxP compliance, and animal care where applicable.

Additional Information

Applicable only to applicants applying to a position in any location with pay disclosure requirements under state or local law: 

  • The compensation range described below is the range of possible base pay compensation that the Company believes in good faith it will pay for this roleat  the time of this posting based on the job grade for this position. Individual compensation paid within this range will depend on manyfactors  including  geographic location, and we may ultimately  pay more or less than the posted range. This range may be  modified in the future. 

  • We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick), medical/dental/vision insurance and 401(k) to eligible employees.

  • This job is eligible to  participate in our short-term incentive programs.  Note: No amount of pay is  considered to be wages or compensation until such amount isearned,  vested,  and determinable. The amount and availability of  any bonus, commission, incentive, benefits, or any other form of compensation and benefits thatare allocable to a   particular employee  remains in the Company's sole and absolute discretion unless and until paid and may be  modified at the Company's sole andabsolute discretion,  consistent with applicable law. 

AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity, driving innovation, transforming lives and serving our community. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled. 

US & Puerto Rico only - to learn more, visit https://www.abbvie.com/join-us/equal-employment-opportunity-employer.html

US & Puerto Rico applicants seeking a reasonable accommodation, click here to learn more:

https://www.abbvie.com/join-us/reasonable-accommodations.html


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About AbbVie

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas: immunology, oncology, neuroscience, eye care, virology, women's health, and gastroenterology, in addition to products and services across its Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.com. Follow @abbvie on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

North Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

2013