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Material Science Engineer Jobs in Melbourne, FL (NOW HIRING)

Associate, Optical Engineer

Palm Bay, FL · On-site

$110K - $142K/yr

To be eligible, applicants must be pursuing Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical & Computer Engineering, Materials Engineering, Materials Science Engineering ...

To be eligible, applicants must be pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical & Computer Engineering, Materials Engineering, Materials Science ...

Showing results 21-40

Material Science Engineer information

See Melbourne, FL salary details

$35.2K

$93.4K

$146.5K

How much do material science engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for material science engineer in Melbourne, FL is $93,376.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,200.00 and $108,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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. The field offers growth opportunities, especially for those skilled in nanotechnology, polymers, and composites, with employment prospects driven by innovation and technological advancement.

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 popular job titles related to Material Science Engineer jobs in Melbourne, FL? For Material Science Engineer jobs in Melbourne, FL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Material Science Engineer jobs in Melbourne, FL look for? The top searched job categories for Material Science Engineer jobs in Melbourne, FL are:
What cities near Melbourne, FL are hiring for Material Science Engineer jobs? Cities near Melbourne, FL with the most Material Science Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Material Science Engineer job openings in Melbourne, FL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,376 per year, or $44.9 per hour.

Principal Materials and Process (M&P) Engineer/Sr Principal Materials and Process (M&P) Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corp. (AU)

Melbourne, FL • On-site

$89.40 - $167.50/hr

Other

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 362 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 538 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available

CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes

CLEARANCE TYPE: SAP

TRAVEL: Yes, 25% of the Time

Position Overview

Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems is hiring a Principal or Senior Principal Materials & Processes Engineer specializing in metallic structures for our Vehicle Engineering organization located in Melbourne, Florida. This role focuses on analyzing material failures, designing fabrication processes, and ensuring compliance with military specifications.

Key Responsibilities
  • Perform root cause analysis of material failures and provide effective solutions to production composite issues.
  • Generate test plans and reports.
  • Analyze, research, design, and develop materials and related fabrication and application processes for engine design, structures, systems, and subsystems.
  • Apply principles of chemistry, physics, and material behavior to develop metallic processing specifications, fabrication, and assembly processes.
  • Develop, analyze, and apply material properties, design allowables, processing processes, and quality engineering specifications.
  • Conduct material analyses including failure analysis, life predictions, and definition of requirement specifications.
  • Review and approve subcontractor material processing procedures as needed.
  • Travel to subcontractor locations as required.
Basic Qualifications
  • For Principal M&P Engineer: Bachelor’s degree in STEM with minimum 5 years of experience in metallic materials for airframe structures, or Master’s degree with minimum 3 years of experience in the same field.
  • For Senior Principal M&P Engineer: Bachelor’s degree in STEM with minimum 9 years of experience in metallic materials for airframe structures, Master’s degree with minimum 7 years, or PhD with minimum 4 years, all in the same field.
  • Experience with metals and their applications related to fabrication and design on aircraft.
  • Experience with repair processes for metallic materials used in aerospace structures.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret Clearance.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP) clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
  • BS or MS in Materials Science or similar discipline.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Team collaboration experience.
  • Ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities and accomplish them simultaneously.
  • Analytical and problem‑solving skills.
  • Experience with military specifications and standards.
  • Experience interfacing with a military customer.
Salary and Benefits
  • Primary Level Salary Range: $89,400.00 – $134,200.00
  • Secondary Level Salary Range: $111,700.00 – $167,500.00
  • Eligible for overtime, shift differential, discretionary bonus, and potential long‑term incentives for senior positions.
  • Benefits include health insurance, life & disability insurance, savings plan, company‑paid holidays, and paid time off.
Equal Opportunity Employer

Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with government clearance and other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939