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Material Science Engineer Jobs in Terre Haute, IN

Requirements 1. Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field 2. Minimum of 3 years of experience in chemical process engineering in a manufacturing ...

Additionally, the R&D scientist will be involved in projects for qualification of raw materials ... Re-engineer existing products * Ensure that product aesthetics and other physical attributes are ...

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Material Science Engineer information

See Terre Haute, IN salary details

$36.1K

$95.8K

$150.3K

How much do material science engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for material science engineer in Terre Haute, IN is $95,809.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,100.00 and $110,800.00 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 Terre Haute, IN are hiring for Material Science Engineer jobs?

Cities near Terre Haute, IN with the most Material Science Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Material Science Engineer job openings in Terre Haute, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,809 per year, or $46.1 per hour.

Production Engineering - Supervisor

North American Lighting

Paris, IL

$97K - $139K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Supervise and coordinate the activities of a team of production engineers in supporting new launches, processes, equipment, and material development.

  • Assist production engineers in analyzing and resolving issues, evaluating and improving materials and processes, and developing new materials and processes.

  • Coordinate new launch activities to ensure on-time results within SOP within the area of responsibility.


North American Lighting rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

124th of 161 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Job Summary

Who We Are 

North American Lighting Inc., member of the Koito Group of Companies, is the largest tier one automotive exterior lighting manufacturer in North America. As the market share leader in exterior automotive lighting, NAL provides advanced lighting technology, engineering design expertise, and state-of-the-art production capabilities to auto makers based in North America and around the world.  

Our Opportunity 

North American Lighting (NAL) is looking for a Production Engineering Supervisor to join our team. The ideal candidate will supervise and coordinate the activities of a team of production engineers who provide engineering and development support in the areas of new launches and processes, equipment, design guidelines, and material performance for new automotive lighting products and future material-related development projects. 

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Your Priorities 

  • Coordinates and oversees the development of new material and process-related technologies, and makes recommendations to NAL management. 
  • Supervises, coordinates, and evaluates the work of a team of process engineers, and assigns the work-load to best achieve project objectives and required timing. 
  • Assists Production Engineers in the following areas: 
    • Analyzing and resolving issues requiring management input 
    • Evaluating and improving materials and processes corporate-wide in order to add value by: 
      • Lowering material costs 
      • Increasing processing efficiency 
      • Improving product value with customers 
    • Maintaining and improving material and process standards 
    • Developing new materials and processes 
    • Providing support to manufacturing 
    • Coordinating new launch activities to provide on time results within SOP within area of responsibility 

The salary range for this position is $97,600 - $139,600 per year. Final compensation will be determined by location, skills, experience, qualifications, and the career level at which the position is filled.

Requirements

Your Background 

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Material Science, or a related technical discipline, plus 6+ years of experience in a process related position in the areas of material selection, testing, implementation, and process-including 2 years of experience in a lead, supervisory, or management role. 

Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, and experience in an engineering function within an automotive or a process-related industry is preferred. 

At North American Lighting

Team Member Benefits 

World class health insurance plans 

Award winning 401k plan 

Relocation assistance 

Paid time off (vacation, sick, holidays, etc) 

Supplier discounts (wireless, computer, vehicle, etc.) 

Company sponsored wellness program including gym reimbursement  
 

Diversity at NAL: 

The mission of NAL's Diversity Committee is to facilitate NAL's ongoing and continuing efforts to foster a culture and atmosphere of mutual respect, for the benefit of all Team Members from different backgrounds, perspectives, and abilities that represent our communities. 

You can learn more about NAL and our opportunities at jobs.nal.com. 

All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, genetic information, and veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

Requisition ID: 21619

Location: Paris Plant 


What North American Lighting employees say

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