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Material Science Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Bachelors degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related Scientific STEM (Science Technology Engineering Math) field of study with 4+ ...

PhD in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a semiconductor related STEM field with 4+ years of relevant experience OR * Master's degree in Chemical ...

PhD in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a semiconductor related STEM field with 4+ years of relevant experience OR * Master's degree in Chemical ...

PhD in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a semiconductor related STEM field with 4+ years of relevant experience OR * Master's degree in Chemical ...

PhD in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a semiconductor related STEM field with 4+ years of relevant experience OR * Master's degree in Chemical ...

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Showing results 1-20

Material Science Engineer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$40.3K

$106.8K

$167.6K

How much do material science engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for material science engineer in Portland, OR is $106,833.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,800.00 and $123,500.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Material Science Engineer jobs in Portland, OR? For Material Science Engineer jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Material Science Engineer jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Material Science Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Material Science Engineer jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Material Science Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Material Science Engineer job openings in Portland, OR as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,833 per year, or $51.4 per hour.
Process Engineer 3

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Lam Research rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 418 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

The group you'll be a part of
In the Global Products Group, we are dedicated to excellence in the design and engineering of Lam's etch and deposition products. We drive innovation to ensure our cutting-edge solutions are helping to solve the biggest challenges in the semiconductor industry.
The impact you'll make
As a Process Engineer at Lam, you will operate on cutting-edge technology, harnessing atomic precision, material science, and surface engineering to push technical boundaries. Your role involves developing new and advanced process formulations, defining equipment hardware to meet processing requirements, evaluating test data, and coordinating design requirements to ensure compatibility of processing methods. Your expertise and knowledge play a crucial role our customers success, making an impact on the next generation of semiconductor breakthroughs.
In this role, you will directly contribute to The Deposition Group.
What you'll do
  • Conduct process engineering research, development, and evaluation in support of Lam's cutting-edge semiconductor equipment and systems.
  • Review and enhance processing techniques and methods applied in the manufacture and fabrication of products.
  • Develop and sustain new processes and process improvements to reduce production costs and increase yields.
  • Compile and analyze test data to establish next steps in process development and determine appropriate limits and variables for process specifications.
  • Collaborate internally to plan, collect data, analyze results, and report on customer demos for existing process applications.
  • Contribute to next generation product development and release activities supporting the semiconductor roadmap.
  • Provide leadership, clear direction, and guidance to process technicians to support execution activities.

Who we're looking for
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or Physics or related field with 3+ years of experience; or a PhD with no previous professional experience; or equivalent experience.

Preferred qualifications
  • Familiarity with working in a laboratory and on semiconductor equipment with experience in surface preparation and analytical techniques.
  • In-depth understanding of Statistical Process Control (SPC) and/or Design of Experiments (DOE).
  • Highly proficient in MATLAB, Python, or other similar scientific computing language.
  • Working knowledge of statistical analysis and problem-solving methodologies.
  • Experience with statistical tools (JMP, Minitab, etc.)
  • Background in Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD), Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD), Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (PECVD), or Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD).
  • Background in Plasma Physics, Reactive Ion Etching (RIE), Atomic Layer Etching (ALE), Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP), Capacitively Coupled Plasma (CCP).
  • Knowledge of Material synthesis and material characterization.
  • Experience working in a collaborative and matrixed environment with diverse teams, semiconductor customers, and/or partners.

Our commitment
We believe it is important for every person to feel valued, included, and empowered to achieve their full potential. By bringing unique individuals and viewpoints together, we achieve extraordinary results.
Lam Research ("Lam" or the "Company") is an equal opportunity employer. Lam is committed to and reaffirms support of equal opportunity in employment and non-discrimination in employment policies, practices and procedures on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, or military and veteran status or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. It is the Company's intention to comply with all applicable laws and regulations. Company policy prohibits unlawful discrimination against applicants or employees.
Lam offers a variety of work location models based on the needs of each role. Our hybrid roles combine the benefits of on-site collaboration with colleagues and the flexibility to work remotely and fall into two categories - On-site Flex and Virtual Flex. 'On-site Flex' you'll work 3+ days per week on-site at a Lam or customer/supplier location, with the opportunity to work remotely for the balance of the week. 'Virtual Flex' you'll work 1-2 days per week on-site at a Lam or customer/supplier location, and remotely the rest of the time.
Our Perks and Benefits
At Lam, our people make amazing things possible. That's why we invest in you throughout the phases of your life with a comprehensive set of outstanding benefits.

What Lam Research employees say

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About Lam Research

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Lam Research designs and builds products for semiconductor manufacturing, including equipment for thin film deposition, plasma etch, photoresist strip, and wafer cleaning processes.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Fremont, CA, US

Year founded

1980

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