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Material Science Engineer Jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

Broadcom

Substrate/Package Layout Engineer

San Jose, CA

$141K - $226K/yr

Bachelors degree in Material Science/ Electrical/Computer/Mechanical Engineeringor related science/engineering degreewith at least 12 years experience. * Or Masters degree and 10+ years of related ...

Delo

Sales Engineer San Jose

San Jose, CA · Hybrid

Mechanical Engineering, Process Engineering, Material Science, Physical Engineering, or similar technical areas (Bachelor's required, Master welcome) * At least 5 years of experience in a technical ...

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All JobsMaterial Science Engineer JobsMaterial Science Engineer Jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

Material Science Engineer information

See Santa Cruz, CA salary details

$43.9K

$116.3K

$182.4K

How much do material science engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for material science engineer in Santa Cruz, CA is $116,318.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,400.00 and $134,500.00 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 Santa Cruz, CA?

For Material Science Engineer jobs in Santa Cruz, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Santa Cruz, CA are hiring for Material Science Engineer jobs?

Cities near Santa Cruz, CA with the most Material Science Engineer job openings:

Material Science Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Material Science Engineer job openings in Santa Cruz, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,318 per year, or $55.9 per hour.

Research Scientist/Engineer, Bio-Microlithography

Centrillion Biosciences, Inc.

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Centrillion is creating transformative genomic technologies leveraging engineering and biochemistry breakthroughs to accelerate discovery and reveal the real genome that has thus far been obscured by its complexity and the limitations of existing technologies. Our team of scientists and engineers is committed to making a new generation of genomic technologies accessible and affordable for a multitude of previously unapproachable apps. Centrillion is backed by venture capital and strategic investors and is located at Palo Alto, CA, at the innovation center of Silicon Valley and close to Stanford University.

Job Description

Centrillion Biosciences is seeking a creative, energetic, resourceful organic chemist to join a multidisciplinary research team developing new technologies for nucleic acid sequence analysis.


Duties:

  • Develop leading-edge technologies for photolithographic patterning of DNA and other biomolecules for advanced applications in genomics & medicine.
  • Design and develop improved fabrication chemistries, materials, and processes 
  • Specify and procure components, materials, reagents and systems.
  • Collaborate with scientists and engineers in a cross-functional and multi-disciplinary working team.
  • Transfer new technologies from research to development to high volume manufacturing and equipment.
  • Calibrate and maintain process tools, instruments & systems, if necessary. 
  • Provide a technical resource and operational support for troubleshooting manufacturing processes and manufactured product testing.  
  • Document experimental work; analyze data; report & present results to technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Support quality & safety standards & procedures.
Qualifications
  • PhD, or MS + 4 Years of experience in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Science Engineering, or related field.
  • Proven expertise in organic and polymer chemistry 
  • Hands-on experience with semiconductor microfabrication technologies and tools, eg.
  •       o projection photolithography (e.g. ASML); 
  •       o photoresist chemistry and optimization
  • Process development and optimization using DOE methodology, Statistical Analysis, Process Control
  • Excellent problem solving and analytical skills
  • Outstanding communication skills (verbal, interpersonal, written)
  • Must be a strong team player, detail oriented, and perform well under pressure
  • Working familiarity with scientific software for DOE, data visualization, statistical analysis, simulation (e.g. PROLITH), etc. 
Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Apply