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Material Science Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree or higher in Engineering (Metallurgy, Materials Science, Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Systems). * Knowledge in materials and processes for space applications ...

PhD in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or related field with relevant industry experience (or MS with significant industry experience) * Demonstrated ...

Opportunity to work in Materials Engineering Laboratory in Tucson AZ. This position will offer a ... Bachelor's Degree in Material Science and Polymer Science * Understanding, with knowledge of ...

Bachelor's degree or higher in Engineering (Metallurgy, Materials Science, Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Systems). * 7 or more years of related work experience in Materials and ...

Bachelor's degree or higher in Engineering (Metallurgy, Materials Science, Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Systems). * 7 or more years of related work experience in Materials and ...

Showing results 41-60

Material Science Engineer information

See Houston, TX salary details

$36.3K

$96.2K

$150.9K

How much do material science engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for material science engineer in Houston, TX is $96,202.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,400.00 and $111,300.00 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 Houston, TX?

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

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Material Science Engineer jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Material Science Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Material Science Engineer job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,202 per year, or $46.3 per hour.

Senior Materials & Processes Engineer

Astrion

Houston, TX โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Overview
Materials & Processes Engineer
LOCATION: NASA Johnson Space Center
JOB STATUS: Full Time, Onsite
CLEARANCE: Background check & U.S. Citizenship required
Are you inspired by human space exploration and passionate about pushing the boundaries of technology to benefit both space missions and life on Earth? Join our diverse and highly collaborative team as we tackle NASA's deep space exploration challenges. As NASA's largest engineering solutions provider, we partner with NASA centers across the United States to deliver cutting-edge engineering support for mission-critical programs.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Materials & Processes Engineer!
RESPONSIBILITES
The Materials & Processes Engineer will:
  • Advise, guide, and provide consultation on requirements for Materials & Processes (M&P) for intravehicular (IVA) and
  • extravehicular (EVA) environments, including materials selection, process control and qualification, design for corrosion
  • prevention, electrical bonding, flammability, toxic off gassing, and processes specification.
  • Assist in review and development of hardware, analysis, operation, hazard reviews, anomaly resolution, requirements
  • verification, re-flight assessments, and flight acceptance testing.
  • Formulate presentations and present to program boards as appropriate.
  • Implement M&P system requirements into hardware design and develop verification and validation plans and
  • statements.
  • Provide input to program/project specifications and ensure appropriate materials requirements are incorporated into all
  • program/project specifications at the right level.
  • Review project/program documentation, specifications, and engineering drawings to ensure M&P requirements are met
  • for spaceflight hardware.
  • Assess whether standard vendor processes meet requirements, and if not, clearly define changes that need to be
  • implemented.
  • Provide vendors with recommendations for qualification and acceptance testing that will properly satisfy verification of
  • requirements.
  • Provide inspection and manufacturing process support for human space flight system.
  • Other duties as required.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE/SKILLS
  • Two (2) or more years of related work experience in Materials and Processes.
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Engineering (Metallurgy, Materials Science, Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Systems).
  • Knowledge in materials and processes for space applications, including materials selection (metallic and nonmetallic), design for corrosion prevention and electrical bonding, failure analysis, heat treatment, adhesive bonding, contamination control, etc.
  • Familiar with metallic and nonmetallic materials specifications, properties, testing.
  • Knowledge in engineering drawing review for materials and processes.
  • Overall background on M&P working knowledge for different systems: propulsion, crew compartments, environmental life support systems, thermal, and electronic systems.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills with the ability to critically assess manufacturing/material processes and designs.
  • Willingness to learn and coordinate across other disciplines is highly desired.
  • Ability to assess and prioritize tasks and identify potential technical risks.
  • Ability to work collaboratively and independently in a multidisciplinary field.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE/ SKILLS
  • M.S. or Ph.D. in Engineering.
  • Previous experience in material selection (metallic and nonmetallic) for electrical components, corrosion prevention, flammability prevention, oxygen compatibility, processes qualification, contamination control, development, test, and evaluation for NASA and/or aerospace projects.
  • Previous experience in directing, guiding, and coordinating a technical team is highly desirable.
  • Previous experience with human space flight system engineering and integration practices.

*This position has been posted at multiple levels. Depending on the candidate's experience, requirements, and business needs, we reserve the right to consider candidates at any level for which this position has been advertised.
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