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

Lead Quality Engineer

Burns Harbor, IN ยท On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Metallurgical Engineering or Material Science or equivalent working experienceTwelve (12) years' previous experience in an industrial or related environmentWorking knowledge of ...

Applications Engineer

Addison, IL ยท On-site

$89K - $120K/yr

... Materials Science, or a related technical field (Equivalent experience may be considered) - 5+ Years of experience in laser processing, CNC machinery, or precision metal fabrication - Hands-on ...

Supplier Quality Engineer

Bolingbrook, IL ยท On-site

$80K - $97K/yr

Holds a Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial or Material Science Engineering. * Has a combination of at least 3-5 years manufacturing, quality or supply quality engineering ...

Bachelor's degree preferable in an Engineering or Science discipline (Material Science a plus ... Minimum of 5 years of outside sales experience selling technical equipment in a laboratory or ...

Applications Engineer

Addison, IL ยท On-site

$89K - $120K/yr

... Materials Science, or a related technical field (Equivalent experience may be considered) - 5+ Years of experience in laser processing, CNC machinery, or precision metal fabrication - Hands-on ...

Senior Quality Engineer

Burns Harbor, IN ยท On-site

$82K - $111K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Metallurgical Engineering or Material Science or equivalent working experience * Six (6) years' previous experience in an industrial or related environment * Working knowledge of ...

Lead Quality Engineer

Burns Harbor, IN ยท On-site

$67K - $86K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Metallurgical Engineering or Material Science or equivalent working experience * Twelve (12) years' previous experience in an industrial or related environment * Working ...

Applications Engineer

Addison, IL ยท On-site

$89K - $120K/yr

... Materials Science, or a related technical field (Equivalent experience may be considered) - 5+ Years of experience in laser processing, CNC machinery, or precision metal fabrication - Hands-on ...

Quality Engineer

Wheeling, IL ยท On-site

$89K - $97K/yr

Quality Engineer Qualifications: * BS in Material Science or Engineering and/or equivalent comprehensive experience. * Minimum of 3 years of experience in a Quality Engineer or similar role.

Quality Engineer

Wheeling, IL ยท On-site

$89K - $97K/yr

Quality Engineer Qualifications: * BS in Material Science or Engineering and/or equivalent comprehensive experience. * Minimum of 3 years of experience in a Quality Engineer or similar role.

Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 30, 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $103,775 per year, or $49.9 per hour.

Lead Quality Engineer

Cleveland--cliffs-1

Burns Harbor, IN โ€ข On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Location: Burns Harbor, INCleveland-Cliffs has an immediate opportunity for a Lead Quality Engineer at our Burns Harbor operation. The Lead Quality Engineer is responsible for guiding and supporting daily quality activities, including inspection, testing, ensuring quality system compliance, reducing waste/non-conforming material, and metallurgical product improvement to make the highest quality steel. The ideal candidate will have prior steel industry experience in steel making, hot rolling, cold rolling, or plate operations, be self-motivated, and thrive in a fast-paced work environment with complex operations.Summary of Responsibilities:Comply with safety, quality, and environmental standardsWork closely within multifunctional teams to drive results and improve quality metricsPossess the ability to lead effectively within a team environment, utilizing clear and effective communication skillsUtilize metallurgical expertise to lead product development, process optimization improvements, and defect reduction initiatives through data analysis, problem solving, and knowledge of customer operations and marketsProvide technical expertise to solve internal and external customer issuesAids field sales personnel in the resolution of any major quality issues and all other duties/responsibilities may be requiredRegularly communicates customer problems to management and the workforceMaintaining quality design systems and training customer account representatives on order requirements and setupAssists in the development of corrective actionsReviews the mill's quality performance and assists in continuous improvement activitiesOther duties as assignedMinimum Qualifications:Bachelorโ€™s Degree in Metallurgical Engineering or Material Science or equivalent working experienceTwelve (12) yearsโ€™ previous experience in an industrial or related environmentWorking knowledge of metallurgical principles and steel defect originsGood verbal and written communication skillsFamiliar with the Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access)Provide technical solutions and material selection recommendations for internal and external customers by understanding manufacturing and product capabilityInterpersonal skills and the ability to operate effectively within a team-oriented, fast-paced environmentPreferred Qualifications :Working knowledge of either steelmaking, hot rolling, cold rolling or plate operationsDemonstrated success in defining and resolving problemsStrong analytical skillsRelocation assistance may be considered for highly qualified candidates from outside the local area.Cleveland-Cliffs is a leading North America-based steel producer with focus on value-added sheet products, particularly for the automotive industry. The Company is vertically integrated from the mining of iron ore, production of pellets and direct reduced iron, and processing of ferrous scrap through primary steelmaking and downstream finishing, stamping, tooling, and tubing. We offer an excellent total compensation package, including competitive pay with variable compensation opportunity, health insurance, retirement plan, education assistance, paid time off, and more.Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to careers@clevelandcliffs.com or call 1-(312) 899-3097 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Do not email your application materials to this email address. Application materials sent to this email address will not be considered.Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. is an equal opportunity employer โ€“ M/F/Veteran/Disability. We are a drug-free workplace and conduct pre-employment screening as a condition of employment. #J-18808-Ljbffr