ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Material Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Eurofins Scientific

Scientist, SIMS

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

If you're energized by materials science, analytical chemistry, engineering rigor, and solving problems that matter, you'll feel right at home here. Every analysis, every test, and every question ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsMaterial Science JobsMaterial Science Jobs in California

Material Science information

See California salary details

$9

$21

$31

How much do material science jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 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.

Physical Science Research Professional 1

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory

Menlo Park, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is seeking a Physical Science Research Professional to join the High Energy Density Science division. The division conducts research to determine the physical properties of matter in extreme conditions spanning areas of high-pressure material science, fusion plasmas to laboratory astrophysics. The successful candidate will conduct experimental research in high energy density science and will perform experiments using LCLS and high-power lasers to develop laser driven particle sources and study their interactions with matter. Importantly, the candidate will develop the cryogenic high-Z jet sources and determine their utility as a neutron source that will be driven by ultrahigh intensity relativistic laser pulses.
Given the nature of this position, SLAC will require onsite work.
Your specific responsibilities include:
  • Develop new experimental techniques to characterize the interactions of high-power optical lasers and X-ray lasers with argon and other high-Z cryogenic jet materials. Specifically, the techniques must be applicable for fielding a user facilities with high-intensity lasers.
  • Perform research and experimental work focused on optimizing laser-jet interactions for neutron generation.
Note: The position is a 2-year fixed term with the possibility of extension or converting to regular-continuing contingent on project funding.
To be successful in this position you will bring:
  • Bachelor's degree in Physics, Applied Physics or related field and two years of research experience in plasma physics.
  • In-depth understanding of experimental measurement techniques.
  • Knowledge in laboratory astrophysics and shock waves.
  • Energetic particle beams characterization.
  • Demonstrated record of scientific productivity through publications and presentations.
  • Ability to carry out independent research.
In addition, preferred requirements include:
  • Strong analytical and computational skills.
  • Demonstrated effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to work and communicate effectively with a diverse population.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and in a team environment.
  • Experience with and understanding of time-resolved x-ray and laser spectroscopy

Apply