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Material Science Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Apple

Magnetic Component Technologist

San Jose, CA · On-site

Education & Experience - BS in Electrical Engineering, Material Science & Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or Physics with a minimum of 10 years of relevant professional ...

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$43

How much do material science engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for material science engineering in California is $26.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $32.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior roles in software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

Is material science engineering a good career?

Material science engineering is a viable career that involves developing and testing materials used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and electronics. It requires strong knowledge of chemistry, physics, and engineering principles, often involving laboratory work and technical problem-solving. Job prospects are generally good with opportunities for advancement and specialization.

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 science, chemistry, physics, and engineering principles, typically supported by at least a bachelor's degree in material science or a related field. Familiarity with analytical tools like scanning electron microscopes (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and materials modeling software is commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These skills ensure the development, testing, and improvement of materials that meet industry performance and safety standards.

What are some common challenges material science engineers face when working on interdisciplinary projects?

Material science engineers often collaborate with professionals from mechanical, chemical, and electrical engineering, which can present challenges in aligning project goals and communication styles. Navigating differences in technical language and priorities requires adaptability and strong teamwork skills. Additionally, integrating new materials into existing manufacturing processes may involve troubleshooting unforeseen issues, making flexibility and creative problem-solving essential. These challenges ultimately foster valuable cross-disciplinary experience and can lead to innovative solutions.

What is material science engineering?

Material science engineering is a multidisciplinary field that focuses on the discovery, design, and development of new materials and the improvement of existing ones. Engineers in this field study the structure, properties, and performance of materials such as metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites. Their work is essential for advancing technology in industries like aerospace, electronics, automotive, and healthcare. Material science engineers play a critical role in creating materials with enhanced strength, durability, or other specialized properties to meet the needs of modern applications.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

In the field of materials science engineering, senior-level professionals with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially in leadership roles or within high-paying industries like aerospace, semiconductor manufacturing, or energy. Achieving this salary often requires advanced certifications, a strong track record, and working in regions with high living costs or demand for specialized expertise.

What kind of jobs do material science engineers do?

Material science engineers research, develop, and test materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites to improve their properties for various applications. They work in industries like aerospace, automotive, electronics, and healthcare, often using tools like microscopy and spectroscopy, and may require knowledge of manufacturing processes and material testing standards.

What is the difference between Material Science Engineering vs Metallurgical Engineering?

AspectMaterial Science EngineeringMetallurgical Engineering
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science or EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Metallurgical Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing, product developmentMining, metal production, refining facilities
Industry UsageElectronics, aerospace, automotive, consumer productsMining, metal extraction, alloy development
Common Search/ComparisonMaterial Science EngineeringMetallurgical Engineering

Material Science Engineering and Metallurgical Engineering share overlapping skills in metals and materials but differ in focus. Material Science emphasizes a broader range of materials, including polymers and ceramics, and their applications across various industries. Metallurgical Engineering concentrates specifically on metals, extraction, and refining processes. Both fields are vital in manufacturing and industry, but their core areas of expertise and work environments differ.

What are the most commonly searched types of Material Science Engineering jobs in California? The most popular types of Material Science Engineering jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Material Science Engineering jobs in California? For Material Science Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Material Science Engineering jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Material Science Engineering jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Material Science Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most Material Science Engineering job openings:
Material Science Engineering jobs near you
Material Process Engineer Level 3

Material Process Engineer Level 3

Indotronix International Corporation

Woodland Hills, CA • On-site

$74 - $99/hr

Contractor

Posted yesterday

Job description

Indotronix is seeking an Onsite Job: Material Process Engineer Level 3

Work Location: Woodland Hills, CA
Duration: 06 Months Contract
Work Schedule: 9x80 A
Bachelor’s Degree in STEM Required
Active DoD Secret Clearance Required

Job Description:
  • Support materials and process engineering activities for aerospace and defense programs.
  • Evaluate metallic materials and manufacturing processes to ensure compliance with engineering requirements.
  • Perform materials analysis related to metallurgy, corrosion, fatigue, heat treatment, and materials testing.
  • Support metallographic sample preparation and laboratory evaluations.
  • Review manufacturing processes including machining, forging, forming, fastening, welding/brazing, plating, and coating.
  • Interpret engineering drawings, material specifications, and processing requirements.
  • Provide technical support for manufacturing, quality, and engineering teams.
  • Work full-time onsite in Woodland Hills.
Must Haves:
  • Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline (preferably Materials Science & Engineering).
  • Principal Level: 5+ years of engineering experience with Bachelor's, 3+ years with Master's, or 1+ year with PhD.
  • Sr. Principal Level: 8+ years of engineering experience with Bachelor's, 6+ years with Master's, or 4+ years with PhD.
  • Experience in aerospace, defense, or high-reliability manufacturing environments.
  • Practical knowledge of ferrous and nonferrous metallurgy, heat treatment, corrosion/fatigue fundamentals, and materials testing.
  • Hands-on experience with metallographic sample preparation, polishing, etching, and hardness testing.
  • 2+ years of experience with manufacturing processes including machining, forging, forming, fastening, welding/brazing, plating, or coating.
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings and material specifications.
  • Active DoD Secret Clearance.
Preferred:
  • Active Top Secret Clearance.
  • Master's or PhD in Materials Science, Metallurgical, Mechanical, Chemical, or Polymer Engineering.
  • Expert knowledge of metals, material properties, and evaluation methods.
  • Experience with advanced manufacturing processes including additive manufacturing, friction stir welding, EB welding, casting, coatings, composites, and heat treating.
  • Experience in high-volume manufacturing environments.
  • Strong mentoring, communication, and technical leadership skills.
  • Experience reviewing materials processing and understanding process-to-performance relationships.
  • Strong academic background with hands-on engineering experience.
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About Indotronix

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

In 1986, Indotronix established itself in the staffing space. 22 years later, Avani entered the scene, offering consulting and technology development. Finally, in 2016, the two joined forces to begin delivering talent across all areas, from Staffing to Consulting to unique platform development.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, NY, US

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