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Material Science Engineer Jobs in Madison, AL (NOW HIRING)

Blue Origin

Lead Manufacturing Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Engineer - Manufacturing Sr (L4) About the Role Blue Origin is seeking a Senior Manufacturing ... Apply first-principles and materials science knowledge to evaluate design decisions at the physics ...

Leidos

Materials Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

With backgrounds in materials science, chemistry/chemical engineering, physics, among others, the department has experience in executing a variety of efforts from R&D, to prototype development, to ...

Created Solutions

GMD DevSecOps Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

GMD DevSecOps Engineer Location: Huntsville, AL Employment Type: Full-Time Education: Bachelor ... material science, manufacturing, and hypersonic technologies--helping solve some of the nation ...

Created Solutions

GMD DevSecOps Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$49.25 - $67.25/hr

GMD DevSecOps Engineer Location: Huntsville, AL Employment Type: Full-Time Education: Bachelor ... material science, manufacturing, and hypersonic technologies-helping solve some of the nation ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsMaterial Science Engineer JobsMaterial Science Engineer Jobs in Madison, AL

Material Science Engineer information

See Madison, AL salary details

$34K

$90.3K

$141.6K

How much do material science engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for material science engineer in Madison, AL is $90,258.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,700.00 and $104,400.00 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 Madison, AL look for?

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

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

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

Material Science Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Material Science Engineer job openings in Madison, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 74% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,258 per year, or $43.4 per hour.

Principal Research Scientist/Engineer- Huntsville (Pool)

Auburn University

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$73K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Auburn University rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

519th of 631 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Overview
This is a pooled posting. This posting will remain open for an extended period of time and selected applicants will be contacted as future staffing needs arise.
This is a limited term appointment. Continuation of employment will be contingent upon the availability of funding.
These positions will be located in Huntsville, AL
Auburn University's Office of the Senior Vice President for Research and Economic Development and the Applied Research Institute (ARI) is seeking candidates for multiple Principal Research Scientist/Engineer positions in anticipation of securing contract funding across a broad range of engineering and scientific disciplines. Areas of focus may include modeling and simulation; systems engineering and integration; advanced and additive manufacturing; autonomous systems: robotics; electromagnetics, mechanical and electrical systems design, thermal and structural analysis, materials science and engineering; propulsion systems; and multi-program project management supporting government and industry sponsors.
These positions are responsible for conducting advanced research to investigate, evaluate, and apply engineering and scientific principles. Incumbents will lead and contribute to innovative research initiatives, generate new knowledge, and support the development of practical solutions to complex technical challenges aligned with ARI's mission.
Responsibilities
  • Leads research and development projects requiring the applications of professional engineering or scientific practices and principles.
  • Provides technical contributions and develops concepts that lead to new leading-edge technologies/techniques/methods.
  • Provides in-depth technical advice to other areas.
  • Operates, maintains, and repairs specialized equipment.
  • Advises faculty, postdocs, students, and staff with design, modification, prototype, processes, analysis procedures, and other engineering solutions.
  • Designs and fabricates equipment, materials, systems utilizing engineering and scientific practices and principles.
  • Ensures supplies are available and operational for use in projects.
  • May manage local computer systems for laboratory functionality.
  • Develops proposals, budgets, schedules and progress reports and presents results.
  • Evaluates findings to develop new concepts, equipment, or processes
  • Prepares technical reports for long and short-range planning.

Qualifications
  • PhD from an accredited institution Engineering, science, management information science (MIS), or related technical field.
    • Level I: No experience required
    • Level II: 2 years of professional experience
    • Level III: 4 years of professional experience
    • Level IV: 6 years of professional experience
    • Level V: 8 years of professional experience
    • Level VI: 10 years of professional experience
    • Level VII:12 years of professional experience
    Experience for Levels II-VII should be in engineering and research practices and principles or science-based programs.
    Candidates with a Bachelor's or Master's degree may substitute relevant experience toward the PhD requirement at the rate of two (2) years relevant experience per year of required education

Contract Type
Limited Term
Why Work at Auburn?
  • Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
  • Culture of Excellence: We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
  • We're Here for You: Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
  • Sweet Home Alabama: The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
  • A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.
  • Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!

Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement
It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit the Office of Equal Opportunity Compliance's website to learn more.
Posted Date
7/30/2026

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