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Material Science Engineer Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA

HWI

Research Engineer II

West Mifflin, PA · On-site

S. in Engineering or Material Science. * Requires knowledge of development process, material science/chemistry, forming and firing processes, refractory materials, and refractory applications.

Calderys

Research Engineer II

West Mifflin, PA

S. in Engineering or Material Science. * Requires knowledge of development process, material science/chemistry, forming and firing processes, refractory materials, and refractory applications.

RJ Lee Group Inc

Materials Scientist

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Applied Physics, Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.0-5 years of relevant experience in laboratory research, materials ...

NovoLINC Inc

Materials Scientist

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

Qualifications · PhD in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related materials-focused discipline. · Proven expertise in polymer composite engineering to formulate and ...

Jennmar

Quality Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$69K - $90K/yr

Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering or Equivalent Relevant Discipline (Mechanical or Material Science Engineering), Preferred * Three-Five (3-5) Years Relevant Experience, A Plus * Ability to ...

ATI

Process Engineer

Vandergrift, PA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Material Science, Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field Preferred Qualifications * Experience with project development, implementation and management

Next Gen Alloys

Process Engineer

Vandergrift, PA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Material Science, Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field Preferred Qualifications * Experience with project development, implementation and management

ATI

Process Engineer

Vandergrift, PA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Material Science, Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field Preferred Qualifications * Experience with project development, implementation and management

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All JobsMaterial Science Engineer JobsMaterial Science Engineer Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA

Material Science Engineer information

See Pittsburgh, PA salary details

$35.5K

$94.1K

$147.6K

How much do material science engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for material science engineer in Pittsburgh, PA is $94,132.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,800.00 and $108,900.00 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 Pittsburgh, PA?

For Material Science Engineer jobs in Pittsburgh, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Material Science Engineer jobs in Pittsburgh, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Material Science Engineer jobs in Pittsburgh, PA are:

What cities near Pittsburgh, PA are hiring for Material Science Engineer jobs?

Cities near Pittsburgh, PA with the most Material Science Engineer job openings:

Material Science Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Material Science Engineer job openings in Pittsburgh, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 74% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,132 per year, or $45.3 per hour.

Research Engineer II

HarbisonWalker International

West Mifflin, PA

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

HarbisonWalker International rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Summary

Conducts laboratory research.  Analyzes samples.  Issues project reviews and final reports.  Evaluates new raw materials.  Determines best use of recycled and scrap materials. Additional responsibilities include:

  • Conduct research and development projects.
  • Plant and process assistance.
  • Plan and implement new or alternate raw material strategies.
  • Technical reports and presentations.
  • Maximize the benefits of data collection, including production data and QA data. Verify the need of current data collection, collect new data as needed, and set up review processes for the data to create information needed to run the processes, and verify the quality.  Optimize the methods of data collection to minimize the cost required for collection, analysis, retention, and retrieval.
  • Solve manufacturing process issues through experimental evaluations, including modifications to the processes and product formulas, under the guidance of research. 
  • Act as the liaison between the plant and the research group.  Support the efforts around work trials, troubleshooting, and modeling the plant process at the ATRC (R&D facility) pilot plant.

Qualifications

  • Requires B.S. in Engineering or Material Science.
  • Requires knowledge of development process, material science/chemistry, forming and firing processes, refractory materials, and refractory applications.
  • Require motivation and ingenuity.
  • Requires three (3) years experience in development or process engineering including ceramics, materials science, or related research.
HWI, a member of Calderys

HWI is the largest supplier of refractory products and services in the United States. 

With manufacturing sites and distribution centers across the Americas, as well as the major refractory industry research facility in North America, HWI serves virtually every major industry that requires refractory solutions to enhance production and protect assets. HWI is consistently recognized for its talented experts, industry firsts, and intensely driven excellence.

We're actively expanding our team of dedicated, enthusiastic people - particularly in research and development, engineering and manufacturing, product management, and sales. As a dynamic, growing global refractory leader, we offer competitive compensation, benefits packages, and wellness programs. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we are committed to a diverse workforce.

For more information, visit https://thinkhwi.com/

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