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Material Science Engineer Jobs in Shakopee, MN (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Materials Scientist/Engineer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$57K - $80K/yr

... Science Laboratory operations in St. Paul, MN. As part of a multidisciplinary team, you will apply scientific principles, laboratory testing, and analytical techniques to investigate material ...

TERRACON

Materials Scientist/Engineer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

... Science Laboratory operations in St. Paul, MN. As part of a multidisciplinary team, you will apply scientific principles, laboratory testing, and analytical techniques to investigate material ...

Cambria

Research Scientist

Le Sueur, MN · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

PhD Material Science, Polymer Chemistry or related engineering or scientific discipline. * Experience with Continuous Improvement principles (lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, etc.). * ASQ Certification ...

Cambria

Research Scientist

Le Sueur, MN · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

PhD Material Science, Polymer Chemistry or related engineering or scientific discipline. * Experience with Continuous Improvement principles (lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, etc.). * ASQ Certification ...

3M

Senior Materials Scientist

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$124K - $151K/yr

D. (completed and verified prior to start) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Ceramics, or a related discipline from an accredited institution. Four (4) years of laboratory ...

3M

Senior Materials Scientist

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$124K - $151K/yr

D. (completed and verified prior to start) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Ceramics, or a related discipline from an accredited institution. Four (4) years of laboratory ...

3M

Materials Scientist

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$124K - $151K/yr

Applying newly developed materials and processes to 3M product roadmaps and scale qualified ... Ph.D. (completed and verified prior to start) in Science or Engineering * Four (4) years of ...

3M

Materials Scientist

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$124K - $151K/yr

Applying newly developed materials and processes to 3M product roadmaps and scale qualified ... Ph.D. (completed and verified prior to start) in Science or Engineering * Four (4) years of ...

3M

Materials Scientist

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$124K - $151K/yr

D. or Post-Doc in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline (completed and verified prior to start) from an accredited institution with a focus on synthesizing new ...

TERRACON

Materials Laboratory Technician

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$21.45 - $30.25/hr

Working alongside scientists, engineers, and technicians, you will help generate the data needed to evaluate material performance, quality, and durability. This position offers exceptional ...

3M

Materials Scientist

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$124K - $151K/yr

D. or Post-Doc in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline (completed and verified prior to start) from an accredited institution with a focus on synthesizing new ...

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All JobsMaterial Science Engineer JobsMaterial Science Engineer Jobs in Shakopee, MN

Material Science Engineer information

See Shakopee, MN salary details

$40.6K

$107.7K

$168.9K

How much do material science engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for material science engineer in Shakopee, MN is $107,682.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,500.00 and $124,500.00 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 cities near Shakopee, MN are hiring for Material Science Engineer jobs?

Cities near Shakopee, MN with the most Material Science Engineer job openings:

Material Science Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Material Science Engineer job openings in Shakopee, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 74% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,682 per year, or $51.8 per hour.

Materials Scientist/Engineer

TERRACON

Saint Paul, MN • On-site

$57K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Perform laboratory testing and evaluation of concrete, cement, supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), aggregates, and related construction materials.

  • Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot analytical instruments and laboratory equipment used for materials characterization, petrography, and performance evaluation.

  • Collect, organize, analyze, and document laboratory data to support project objectives, technical investigations, and client deliverables.

Terracon rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 121 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 72 rated business consultants

Job description


Are you curious about how materials behave, why they fail, and how they can be improved?
Terracon is seeking an early-career Materials Scientist or Engineer to join our growing Materials Science Laboratory operations in St. Paul, MN. As part of a multidisciplinary team, you will apply scientific principles, laboratory testing, and analytical techniques to investigate material performance and solve complex challenges across the construction industry. This role provides exceptional opportunities to develop specialized expertise in concrete materials, materials engineering, cement chemistry, concrete petrography, aggregates, and supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), while growing into a trusted technical advisor and building a pathway towards becoming an industry-recognized subject matter expert.
Our Materials Science Laboratory specializes in the evaluation of concrete, cement, supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), and aggregates through a combination of advanced laboratory testing, petrography, and materials chemistry; helping clients understand material performance, durability, quality, and long-term behavior.
If you're interested in belonging to a 100% employee-owned organization that allows us to set our course together and benefit when our hard work creates financial success, then Terracon is your kind of company. Come explore with us!
Responsibilities
  • Perform laboratory testing and evaluation of concrete, cement, supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), aggregates, and related construction materials.
  • Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot analytical instruments and laboratory equipment used for materials characterization, petrography, and performance evaluation.
  • Collect, organize, analyze, and document laboratory data to support project objectives, technical investigations, and client deliverables.
  • Support petrographic examinations, materials chemistry evaluations, and investigations related to material performance, durability, quality, and deterioration mechanisms.
  • Prepare data summaries, technical reports, presentations, and project documentation, and effectively communicate technical findings to internal and external clients.
  • Collaborate with scientists, engineers, geologists, and technicians on a variety of laboratory, materials science, and consulting projects.
  • Participate in the continuous improvement of laboratory methods, testing procedures, quality systems, and technical expertise through training, mentorship, and hands-on experience.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Geology, Materials Science, Physics, Engineering, or a related STEM discipline. Coursework or academic experience in mineralogy, materials science, concrete materials, cement chemistry, civil engineering, or structural engineering is preferred. Relevant industry experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
  • 1 to 3 years of experience in a laboratory, research, consulting, or industrial setting. Experience with analytical instrumentation or laboratory testing in industry is preferred.
  • Prior experience on one or more of the following analytical instrumentation methods preferred: X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM/EDS), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Atomic Absorption (AA), Mass Spectroscopy, and Optical Microscopy.
  • Demonstrated curiosity, initiative, and a desire to solve complex technical problems, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively document and communicate technical findings.
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

About Us
Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.
Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.
About the Team
The chemistry that holds our materials team together is made of integrity, creativity, and care. We represent Terracon's largest technician and inspection workforce and ensure the materials used to build the nation's roads, bridges, airports, stadiums, and other structures are safe and sound. With our broad range of qualifications, specialized certifications, and building materials professionals, we are on-site, evaluating and testing materials in real-time to keep the pace of our clients' project, collecting and reporting data digitally to deliver critical insights. With our nationwide footprint of offices and laboratories, bench strength, flexibility, and diverse capabilities we identify issues and expedite solutions whenever problems arise.

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