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Material Science Engineer Jobs in Irvine, CA (NOW HIRING)

Purosil LLC

Polymer Materials Scientist

Corona, CA · On-site

The ideal candidate will have R&D level proficiency in polymer chemistry (ideally silicone and/or organic rubbers), material science, and applied materials science/mechanical engineering. You Should ...

ATI

Engineer II, Technology (Metallurgy)

Irvine, CA · On-site

The Metallurgical Engineeris responsible fordeveloping materials application,forgedproductand manufacturing related technologies using fundamentals of engineering foundations and material science. A ...

ATI

Engineer II, Technology (Metallurgy)

Irvine, CA · On-site

Essential Functions: * Assist in providing technical input and metallurgical guidance with proper evaluation by applying fundamentals of materials science and engineering to the Technology ...

SprintRay

R&D Engineer, Materials

Huntington Beach, CA

$90K - $105K/yr

Working closely with scientists, engineers, and manufacturing teams, you'll help bring next-generation dental materials from concept to production through laboratory experimentation, data-driven ...

SprintRay

R&D Engineer, Materials

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Working closely with scientists, engineers, and manufacturing teams, you'll help bring next-generation dental materials from concept to production through laboratory experimentation, data-driven ...

ATI

Engineer II, Technology (Metallurgy)

Irvine, CA · On-site

$6.9K - $11K/mo

Essential Functions: * Assist in providing technical input and metallurgical guidance with proper evaluation by applying fundamentals of materials science and engineering to the Technology ...

ATI

Engineer II, Technology (Metallurgy)

Irvine, CA · On-site

$6.9K - $11K/mo

The Metallurgical Engineeris responsible fordeveloping materials application,forgedproductand manufacturing related technologies using fundamentals of engineering foundations and material science. A ...

Howmet Aerospace

Quality Engineer

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Bachelor's degree in engineering in mechanical, industrial, Material Science or manufacturing engineering * 1+ years of experience working in a manufacturing environment Preferred Qualifications ...

MicroVention

Principal R&D Engineer

Aliso Viejo, CA · On-site

$129K - $169K/yr

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, Industrial Engineering, or Materials Science Engineering. * Minimum of ten (10) years of relevant work experience in medical device industry. * Strong ...

MicroVention

Principal Engineer, R&D

Aliso Viejo, CA · On-site

$129K - $169K/yr

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, Industrial Engineering, or Materials Science Engineering. * Minimum of ten (10) years of relevant work experience in medical device industry. * Strong ...

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All JobsMaterial Science Engineer JobsMaterial Science Engineer Jobs in Irvine, CA

Material Science Engineer information

See Irvine, CA salary details

$40.8K

$108.1K

$169.6K

How much do material science engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for material science engineer in Irvine, CA is $108,131.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,900.00 and $125,000.00 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 are popular job titles related to Material Science Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA?

For Material Science Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Material Science Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Material Science Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA are:

What cities near Irvine, CA are hiring for Material Science Engineer jobs?

Cities near Irvine, CA with the most Material Science Engineer job openings:

Material Science Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Material Science Engineer job openings in Irvine, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 74% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,542 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Scientist II, Material Science

Aliso Viejo, CA • On-site

MicroVention
501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about MicroVentionexternal

$79K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description


Support the application of technologies to medical products by performing and documenting test methods and processes, analyzing data, identifying equipment, and performing qualification. Explore and identify technologies that could become Terumo's core technologies in the future and support bringing such technologies to Terumo. Job duties:
  • Support project teams to select and demonstrate the feasibility of alternative materials, processes, or technologies for medical products in feasibility and design control phases.
  • Perform and optimize chemical/biological processes and utilize analytical techniques for characterization
  • Perform in vitro, ex vivo, and/or benchtop testing and analyze test data.
  • Develop technical documents, including, but not limited to, test methods, test protocols, test reports, and work instructions in accordance with quality management system requirements.
  • Qualify and maintain equipment and fixture.
  • Communicate with stakeholders as a technical/scientific SME.
  • Explore new technologies with guidance from management (e.g., Director).
  • Contribute to generating intellectual property and invention disclosures.
  • May have oversight of junior staff members and train Technicians and Specialists as needed.
  • As a moderately self-directed role, achieve project goals with minimal or moderate supervision.
  • Comply with applicable Laws and Regulations, adhere to Quality Management System processes and requirements as well as demonstrate Ethics and Integrity in all matters and at all levels throughout the organization.
  • Perform additional duties related to business objectives as needed.

Qualifications
  1. Bachelor's degree in a scientific, engineering, or medical field.
  2. Minimum two (2) years of relevant work experience OR a master's degree plus minimum one (1) year of relevant work experience.
  3. Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  4. Ability to read and prepare technical documentation.
  5. Proficient computer skills including MS Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams, and statistical software.
Desired Qualifications
  1. Advanced degree in a scientific, engineering, or medical field.
  2. Intermediate knowledge of medical product design, testing, chemical/biological reactions, and/or analysis.
  3. Working experience in medical device quality management systems (e.g. ISO 13485)
Physical
  • Extended periods of computer use.
  • Extended periods of sitting or standing.
  • Light lifting, up to 25 lbs.
  • May be required within the position to be in an environment that can include radiation exposure (such as in Cathlabs).
  • Some national and international travel may be required (<20%).
EEO
We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, marital status or any other characteristics protected by law.
Fair Chance Ordinance
If you are applying to perform work for Terumo Neuro in any position which will involve performing at least two (2) hours of work on average each week within the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County, you can find here a list of all material job duties of the specific job position which Terumo Neuro reasonably believes that criminal history may have a direct, adverse and negative relationship potentially resulting in the withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment.
Terumo Neuro will consider for employment qualified job applicants with arrest or conviction records in accordance with the California Fair Chance Act, Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.
Salary Range
$79,733 - $104,650 (Financial compensation packages may be higher/lower than listed, & will ultimately depend on factors including relevant experience, internal equity, skillset, knowledge, geography, education, business needs and market demand)

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