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

Senior Software Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

$123K - $162K/yr

The Senior Software Engineer acts as a recognized technical expert and a reference for complex ... material sciences. Compensation Employee Type: Salaried Currency: USD Salary Minimum: 115,000 ...

Product Design Engineer

Stoughton, WI · On-site

$124K - $149K/yr

Product Design Engineer Stoughton, WI - Full Time Productive Resources (www.productiveresources.com ... Knowledge of material science for steel, aluminum, composites. Preferred: * Six Sigma (DMAIC, DFSS ...

Job Senior Software Engineer

Madison, WI

$123K - $162K/yr

Senior Software Engineer Location: Madison, WI, US, 53711 Business Unit: Cameca Posting Date: May ... material sciences. Compensation Employee Type: Salaried Currency: USD Salary Minimum: 115,000 ...

The Structural Engineer II is responsible for performing basic structural engineering tasks for ... material science, 3D concepts to creative problem-solving. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS Education:

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Showing results 1-20

Material Science Engineer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$38.3K

$101.5K

$159.2K

How much do material science engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for material science engineer in Madison, WI is $101,506.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,600.00 and $117,400.00 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 $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-level positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and a strong track record of project management and technical expertise.

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 highest compensation.

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.
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What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Material Science Engineer jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Material Science Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Material Science Engineer job openings in Madison, WI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,506 per year, or $48.8 per hour.
Material Science Engineer III

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Sierra Space Careers:

At Sierra Space, we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth.

Sierra Space team members share a spirit of innovation and collaboration and a belief that we can deliver on the boldest missions in space today. Together with our customers, we aim to safeguard our nation, sustain human presence in space, and secure the freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond.

Our success is measured by the trust of those who rely on what we build and deliver, and our technologies keep the United States and its allies mission-ready throughout space.

We are mission-driven, and together, we are an extraordinary team.

About the RoleAs a Material Science Engineer III at Sierra Space, you will utilize your extensive experience and expertise to lead complex engineering projects. Your deep understanding and application of technical principles, standards, theories, and concepts in material sciences will enable you to provide innovative and practical solutions. Working under general direction, you will independently develop approaches to address technical challenges, acting as the Responsible Engineer (RE) for discrete technical packages. Additionally, you will provide guidance to less experienced engineers and frequently communicate with external parties.
In this role, you will lead the development and analysis of materials used in aerospace systems, leveraging your expertise in material sciences. You will apply a complete understanding of technical principles, standards, theories, and concepts to solve a wide range of technical problems. Developing and documenting technical data, reports, and presentations to support engineering projects and organizational objectives will be a key aspect of your responsibilities. You will independently determine and develop approaches to solutions while working under general direction. Acting as the Responsible Engineer (RE) for discrete technical packages, you will ensure technical accuracy and compliance with project requirements. Collaborating across all technical disciplines, you will integrate material science solutions into broader engineering projects, while providing guidance and mentorship to less experienced engineers to foster professional growth and enhance team capabilities. Additionally, you will frequently communicate technical concepts and information outside of Sierra Space, engaging with suppliers, partners, and other stakeholders to support routine business activities. Participating in technical reviews, project meetings, and strategy sessions, you will provide expert insights and drive engineering excellence to achieve organizational goals.About You

Our mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower - to join us in this critical mission.

We're looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals - while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Requires Bachelor's degree in a related field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree or Masters +3 yrs experience).

  • Typically 5+ years of related experience.

  • Expertise in material sciences.

  • Experience managing discrete technical packages as a Responsible Engineer (RE).

  • Complete understanding and application of technical principles, standards, theories, and concepts.

  • General knowledge of related disciplines.

  • Ability to provide solutions to wide-ranging technical problems that are imaginative, thorough, practical, and consistent with organization objectives.

  • Ability to work under general direction to independently determine and develop approaches to solutions.

  • Ability to work across all technical disciplines.

  • Ability to provide guidance to entry-level engineers.

  • The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance is required.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Proficiency with advanced engineering software tools such as MATLAB, ANSYS, or COMSOL for material analysis and simulation.

  • Experience with material characterization and test techniques such as SEM, TEM, XRD, DSC, tensile, fatigue, creep, and fracture.

  • Familiarity with materials selection software like CES Selector.

  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple complex tasks and priorities effectively.

  • Demonstrated ability to rapidly learn and apply new concepts and methodologies.

  • Commitment to continuous learning and professional development in material sciences and aerospace engineering.

  • Teamwork and collaboration skills to work effectively within cross-functional teams.

  • Excellent communication skills to clearly and effectively convey complex technical information to diverse audiences.

  • Proven track record of successful leadership and ownership of technical projects from concept through completion.

  • Experience in communicating technical information to external stakeholders such as suppliers and partners.

  • Knowledge of failure analysis techniques and root cause analysis.

  • Experience with additive manufacturing processes and materials.

  • Familiarity with regulatory standards and compliance requirements in aerospace materials.

Compensation:

Pay Range:

$110,664.00 - $152,184.00

Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education,experience, internal equity and market competitiveness.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance. U.S. Citizenship status is required as this position needs an active U.S. Security Clearance for employment. Non-U.S. citizens may not be eligible to obtain a security clearance. The Department of Defense Consolidated Adjudications Facility (DoD CAF), a federal government agency, handles the adjudicative aspects of the security clearance eligibility process for industry applicants. Adjudicative factors which affect the outcome of the eligibility determination include, but are not limited to, allegiance to the U.S., foreign influence, foreign preference, criminal conduct, security violations and illegal drug use.

Elevate Your Career

At Sierra Space, we are committed to your personal and professional development. We empower you to make profound and meaningful contributions and foster a vibrant culture of collaboration, where teamwork ignites breakthrough innovations.


We also offer a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, and more.

Sierra Space is an industry-leading space and defense technology company providing satellites, spacecraft, and enabling mission systems and components. We deliver mission-proven technologies to our customers that safeguard our nation, protect space-based assets and enable space exploration.

Application Deadline: This role will remain posted until a qualified pool of candidates is identified.

Please note: Sierra Space does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to Sierra Space team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of Sierra Space, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.

Sierra Space Corporationis an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need special assistance or a reasonable accommodation related to applying for employment withSierra Spaceor at any stage of the recruitment process, pleasecontact us.