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Material Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

PTI Technologies

Material Scientist

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$111K - $186K/yr

Join us in pushing the boundaries of material science in aerospace. Let us introduce ourselves PTI Technologies Inc. is a world leader in highly-reliable filtration and fluid control equipment and ...

PTI Technologies

Material Scientist

Oxnard, CA · On-site

Join us in pushing the boundaries of material science in aerospace. Let us introduce ourselves PTI Technologies Inc. is a world leader in highly-reliable filtration and fluid control equipment and ...

PTI Technologies

Material Scientist

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$111K - $186K/yr

Join us in pushing the boundaries of material science in aerospace.Let us introduce ourselvesPTI Technologies Inc. is a world leader in highly-reliable filtration and fluid control equipment and ...

ETS-Lindgren GmbH

PTI Material Scientist

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Join us in pushing the boundaries of material science in aerospace. Let us introduce ourselves PTI Technologies Inc. is a world leader in highly-reliable filtration and fluid control equipment and ...

Purosil LLC

Polymer Materials Scientist

Corona, CA · On-site

The ideal candidate will have R&D level proficiency in polymer chemistry (ideally silicone and/or organic rubbers), material science, and applied materials science/mechanical engineering. You Should ...

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Material Science information

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How much do material science jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for material science in California is $21.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $24.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a material science?

A Material Science job involves researching, developing, and testing materials to improve their properties for various applications. Material scientists work with metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites to enhance performance in industries like aerospace, healthcare, and manufacturing. They analyze the structure and properties of materials to innovate and create new products or improve existing ones. These professionals often collaborate with engineers and manufacturers to ensure materials meet required standards for durability, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness.

What are some typical projects and day-to-day tasks in a material science position?

Material Science professionals often engage in researching, testing, and developing new materials or improving existing ones to meet specific industry needs. Typical tasks might include preparing and analyzing material samples, conducting experiments in labs, interpreting test data, and collaborating closely with engineering or product development teams. You may also be involved in troubleshooting manufacturing processes or supporting quality assurance efforts. These roles frequently require documenting findings, presenting results, and contributing to cross-departmental meetings, making every day varied and dynamic. Many positions offer hands-on involvement as well as opportunities for cross-functional teamwork.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a material science position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Material Science, you need a solid background in physics, chemistry, materials engineering, and problem-solving, usually supported by at least a bachelor's degree in materials science or a related discipline. Familiarity with scientific instrumentation, materials characterization software, and quality control systems is often required, along with certifications such as Six Sigma or experience with ISO standards. Strong analytical thinking, clear communication, and collaborative skills distinguish outstanding professionals in this field. These competencies enable effective research, innovation, and seamless teamwork in developing and optimizing new materials for various industries.

What do you do with a material science degree?

A material science degree prepares individuals for careers in research, development, and testing of materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites. Graduates often work in industries like aerospace, automotive, electronics, and manufacturing, utilizing skills in laboratory analysis, materials characterization, and engineering design. Job roles may include materials engineer, research scientist, quality control analyst, or product development specialist.

What jobs can you do with material science?

Material science graduates can pursue careers as materials engineers, research scientists, quality control specialists, or product development engineers. These roles involve analyzing, testing, and developing materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites, often requiring knowledge of laboratory techniques and computer-aided design tools.

What are the most commonly searched types of Material Science jobs in California?

The most popular types of Material Science jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Material Science jobs in California?

For Material Science jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Material Science jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Material Science jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Material Science jobs?

Cities in California with the most Material Science job openings:

Material Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Material Science job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,577 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Scientist II, Material Science

MicroVention

Aliso Viejo, CA • On-site

$79K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description


Support the application of technologies to medical products by performing and documenting test methods and processes, analyzing data, identifying equipment, and performing qualification. Explore and identify technologies that could become Terumo's core technologies in the future and support bringing such technologies to Terumo. Job duties:
  • Support project teams to select and demonstrate the feasibility of alternative materials, processes, or technologies for medical products in feasibility and design control phases.
  • Perform and optimize chemical/biological processes and utilize analytical techniques for characterization
  • Perform in vitro, ex vivo, and/or benchtop testing and analyze test data.
  • Develop technical documents, including, but not limited to, test methods, test protocols, test reports, and work instructions in accordance with quality management system requirements.
  • Qualify and maintain equipment and fixture.
  • Communicate with stakeholders as a technical/scientific SME.
  • Explore new technologies with guidance from management (e.g., Director).
  • Contribute to generating intellectual property and invention disclosures.
  • May have oversight of junior staff members and train Technicians and Specialists as needed.
  • As a moderately self-directed role, achieve project goals with minimal or moderate supervision.
  • Comply with applicable Laws and Regulations, adhere to Quality Management System processes and requirements as well as demonstrate Ethics and Integrity in all matters and at all levels throughout the organization.
  • Perform additional duties related to business objectives as needed.

Qualifications
  1. Bachelor's degree in a scientific, engineering, or medical field.
  2. Minimum two (2) years of relevant work experience OR a master's degree plus minimum one (1) year of relevant work experience.
  3. Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  4. Ability to read and prepare technical documentation.
  5. Proficient computer skills including MS Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams, and statistical software.
Desired Qualifications
  1. Advanced degree in a scientific, engineering, or medical field.
  2. Intermediate knowledge of medical product design, testing, chemical/biological reactions, and/or analysis.
  3. Working experience in medical device quality management systems (e.g. ISO 13485)
Physical
  • Extended periods of computer use.
  • Extended periods of sitting or standing.
  • Light lifting, up to 25 lbs.
  • May be required within the position to be in an environment that can include radiation exposure (such as in Cathlabs).
  • Some national and international travel may be required (<20%).
EEO
We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, marital status or any other characteristics protected by law.
Fair Chance Ordinance
If you are applying to perform work for Terumo Neuro in any position which will involve performing at least two (2) hours of work on average each week within the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County, you can find here a list of all material job duties of the specific job position which Terumo Neuro reasonably believes that criminal history may have a direct, adverse and negative relationship potentially resulting in the withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment.
Terumo Neuro will consider for employment qualified job applicants with arrest or conviction records in accordance with the California Fair Chance Act, Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.
Salary Range
$79,733 - $104,650 (Financial compensation packages may be higher/lower than listed, & will ultimately depend on factors including relevant experience, internal equity, skillset, knowledge, geography, education, business needs and market demand)

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