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Material Science Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Material Sciences Corporation

Be Seen First

Maintenance Mechanic

Chicago, IL · On-site

$31 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

At Material Sciences Corporation (MSC) , we are a leader in the field of metal laminating and advanced material solutions , proudly supporting innovation across industries for over 70 years. Our Elk ...

Material Sciences Corporation

Be Seen First

General Machine Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

At Material Sciences Corporation (MSC) , we are a leader in the field of metal laminating and advanced material solutions , proudly supporting innovation across industries for over 70 years. Our Elk ...

Ferrero

Packaging Innovation Specialist

Chicago, IL

$99/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

MS/BS degree in Chemistry, Material Science, Polymer Science, Mechanical-Packaging Engineering, Chemical Engineering, and/or related fields Minimum of 3-5 years experience in Packaging, Innovation ...

Koch Industries

Innovation Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Knowledge and expertise in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Material Science or a related technical field. * Experience in materials ...

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All JobsMaterial Science JobsMaterial Science Jobs in Chicago, IL

Material Science information

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How much do material science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for material science in Chicago, IL is $22.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $26.01 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.

How hard is it to get a job in material science?

Securing a job in material science can be competitive and typically requires a relevant degree such as a bachelor's or master's in materials science, engineering, or related fields. Strong skills in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and familiarity with tools like microscopy or spectroscopy can improve employment prospects, which may also involve internships or research experience.

Is material science a good career?

Material science is a viable career that involves studying and developing materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites for various industries. It often requires strong knowledge of chemistry, physics, and engineering, and offers opportunities in research, manufacturing, and product development with steady demand. Job prospects can be enhanced through advanced degrees and proficiency with tools like microscopy and spectroscopy.

What jobs can I get with a material science degree?

A material science degree qualifies individuals for roles such as materials engineer, research scientist, quality control analyst, and product development engineer. These jobs often require knowledge of materials properties, testing methods, and proficiency with tools like microscopy and spectroscopy, with opportunities in industries like aerospace, automotive, electronics, and manufacturing.

What jobs can you do with material science?

Material science graduates can pursue careers as materials engineers, research scientists, quality control analysts, or product development specialists. 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Material Science jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Material Science jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Material Science jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Material Science jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Material Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Material Science job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,611 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Materials Engineer

NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.

Oak Brook, IL • On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

About NANO Nuclear Energy
NANO Nuclear Energy is an advanced nuclear technology company developing next-generation microreactor systems that will help transform the future of clean, reliable, and resilient energy. Through the development of its KRONOS MMR™ Energy System, LOKI MMR™ Energy System, and ZEUS™ Solid Core Battery Reactor-advanced high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) technologies designed for applications including data centers, industrial operations, remote communities, and critical infrastructure-the company is advancing innovative nuclear solutions for a rapidly evolving energy landscape. NANO Nuclear has also submitted a Construction Permit Application (CPA) to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to support the planned deployment of the KRONOS MMR at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), representing a significant milestone toward the commercialization of advanced nuclear technology.
Joining NANO Nuclear means contributing to pioneering technologies with the potential to redefine the nuclear industry while working alongside experts in engineering, science, and innovation. Our team operates in a collaborative, entrepreneurial environment where employees are encouraged to solve challenging technical problems and advance the materials technologies needed for next-generation energy systems.
Position Overview
NANO Nuclear Energy is seeking a Materials Engineer to support materials selection, qualification, testing, and performance evaluation for advanced microreactor systems. This role will contribute to ensuring that structural materials, high-temperature materials, coatings, and component materials meet the demanding requirements of advanced nuclear applications.
Key Responsibilities
  • Support materials selection and qualification activities for advanced reactor components and systems.
  • Evaluate material properties including strength, fatigue, creep, corrosion resistance, oxidation resistance, and thermal performance.
  • Support development of material specifications, procurement requirements, and qualification plans.
  • Analyze materials test data and support interpretation of experimental results.
  • Assist with material compatibility evaluations for high-temperature nuclear environments.
  • Support vendor and supplier technical reviews related to materials and manufacturing processes.
  • Develop engineering documentation, reports, and technical presentations.
  • Collaborate with mechanical, thermal, nuclear, graphite, manufacturing, and licensing teams.
  • Support root-cause investigations and materials performance assessments.
  • Stay current with advances in nuclear materials, manufacturing technologies, and industry standards.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or related field.
  • 0-5 years of engineering experience; internships, laboratory research, and academic projects applicable.
  • Understanding of materials science fundamentals, mechanical properties, and material behavior.
  • Ability to analyze technical data and communicate engineering conclusions.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary engineering environment.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree or Ph.D. in Materials Science, Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline.
  • Experience with nuclear materials, high-temperature alloys, ceramics, graphite, or advanced materials.
  • Experience with materials characterization techniques such as microscopy, mechanical testing, or thermal analysis.
  • Experience with materials qualification programs or supplier technical management.
  • Familiarity with ASME standards, NRC requirements, or nuclear quality programs.
  • Experience with irradiation effects, corrosion, oxidation, or aging mechanisms.
  • Experience using engineering analysis tools, MATLAB, Python, or data analysis software.

What We Offer
  • The opportunity to develop materials solutions for next-generation nuclear technology.
  • Exposure to advanced materials challenges in high-temperature and nuclear environments.
  • A collaborative engineering culture focused on innovation and technical excellence.
  • Opportunities for mentorship, professional growth, and technical leadership.
  • Competitive compensation and benefits package.
  • The opportunity to contribute to a cleaner, more reliable energy future.

Equal Opportunity Statement NANO Nuclear Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to apply.

Apply