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Material Science Jobs in Kent, WA (NOW HIRING)

Scientist I / Scientist II Research

Tacoma, WA ยท On-site

$93K - $103K/yr

Bachelor's degree in a chemistry, chemical engineering, material science, or equivalent experience, required. * Candidates must currently reside in Washington State to be considered for this onsite ...

HW Dev Engr III - AMZ9971139

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$165K - $185K/yr

Bachelor's degree or foreign equivalent degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Material Science, or a related field, and three years of experience in the job offered or a related ...

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Material Science information

See Kent, WA salary details

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How much do material science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for material science in Kent, WA is $25.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.44 and $28.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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 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.

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 job categories do people searching Material Science jobs in Kent, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Material Science jobs in Kent, WA are:

What cities near Kent, WA are hiring for Material Science jobs?

Cities near Kent, WA with the most Material Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Material Science job openings in Kent, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,852 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Manager, Materials Science (Ph.D.)

Exponent Inc.

Seattle, WA โ€ข On-site

$165K - $195K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

About Exponent
Exponent is the only premium engineering and scientific consulting firm with the depth and breadth of expertise to solve our clients' most profoundly unique, unprecedented, and urgent challenges.
We are committed to engaging multidisciplinary teams of science, engineering, and regulatory experts to empower our clients with solutions that create a safer, healthier, more sustainable world. For over five decades, we've connected the lessons of past failures with tomorrow's solutions to advise clients as they innovate technologically complex products and processes, ensure the safety and health of their users, and address the challenges of sustainability.
Join our team of experts with degrees from top programs at over 500 universities and extensive experience spanning a variety of industries. At Exponent, you'll contribute to the diverse pool of ideas, talents, backgrounds, and experiences that drives our collaborative teamwork and breakthrough insights. Plus, we help you grow your career through mentoring, sponsorship, and a culture of learning. Thanks for your interest in joining our team!
Key statistics:
  • 950+ Consultants
  • 640+ Ph.D.s
  • 90+ Disciplines
  • 30+ Offices globally

Our Opportunity
We are seeking a talented and motivated Manager with consulting experience to join our Materials Science & Electrochemistry Practice This position is open across U.S. office locations. In this role, you will contribute to multidisciplinary teams that address complex challenges involving materials selection, degradation, failure analysis, and reliability across a wide range of industries, including consumer products, energy storage, consumer electronics, medical devices, transportation, and infrastructure. You will support technical investigations and laboratory testing, analyze data, and help deliver high-quality, client-focused solutions.
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced consultant to partner with our senior staff and subject matter experts to grow their consulting practice.
You will be responsible for
  • Applying expertise in Materials Science to support investigations involving material performance, degradation, and failure across a range of industries
  • Building and cultivating strong client relationships
  • Contributing to the growth of the consulting business by identifying opportunities through project work, client engagement, and professional development activities
  • Coordinating laboratory testing and analysis using techniques such as SEM, EDS, FTIR, XRD, and electrochemical methods (e.g., EIS, cyclic voltammetry)
  • Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to deliver scientifically rigorous and impactful solutions to complex technical challenges
  • Preparing high-quality technical reports and presentations that clearly communicate findings to both technical and non-technical audiences
  • Supporting project planning and execution
  • Participating in occasional travel for client meetings, site inspections, or lab work
  • Mentoring junior staff by providing technical guidance and fostering a collaborative, inclusive team environment

You will have the following skills and qualifications
  • Ph.D. in Materials Science or a closely related field with a strong foundation in materials science
  • Minimum 5 years of experience consulting in the materials science space. Expertise related to glass or ceramics will be considered a plus
  • Proven ability to build and nurture meaningful client relationships that drive project growth and expansion. An existing book of business and/or experience supporting clients with legal disputes will be considered a plus
  • Experience in any of the following: product safety/liability/recalls; construction defect claims; subrogation; failure to perform/equip; or intellectual property
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and draw meaningful conclusions
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences
  • A collaborative mindset and experience working in multidisciplinary teams; experience with managing a small team of 2-5 team members
  • Project management experience, including coordinating tasks, timelines, and deliverables to ensure successful execution of technical projects
  • A commitment to professional growth

Applicants are encouraged to submit a CV with publications (feel free to include publications that are in review or pending) [not restricted to 1 page].
Life @ Exponent
To learn more about life at Exponent and our impact, please visit the following links:
https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent
https://www.exponent.com/company/our-impact
Attracting, inspiring, developing, and rewarding exceptional people with diverse backgrounds and expertise are central to our corporate culture. Our diverse team allows us to provide better value to our clients and enjoy an enriched work environment.
Our firm is committed to offering a variety of programs and resources to support health and well-being. We believe that providing competitive benefits as well as compensation and recognition programs empowers our staff to do work that makes a difference.
Work Environment
At Exponent, we have found that in-person interactions deepen employee engagement and are crucial for development, for realizing the full potential of our talented and diverse teams, and for building a more inclusive workplace where all have a sense of belonging. In our offices, you can expect a supportive culture and a collaborative, dynamic, multi-disciplinary work environment. Our consultants engage in-person in the office unless they are traveling for client work or other business activities.
We value the rich lives our colleagues enjoy outside of work and understand that work/life balance is critical to our employees and their well-being. Consultants have the autonomy to balance their work and personal schedules so you can meet with clients, visit inspection sites, attend conferences, and make time for priorities outside of work, too. It is this flexible, agile work style and working hours that allow our teams to drive innovation and results in their own ways, while meeting the needs of clients. #LI-Onsite
Compensation
Our consultants are rewarded for their technical and business contributions and have an opportunity to plan for future success and career growth. Exponent's total compensation plan is consistent with its expectations of the quality and quantity of work performed and with the professional standards set by Exponent. At the Manager level and above total compensation includes base salary, annual bonus, and 401(k) employer contribution of 7% of base salary.
The base salary range for this position is dependent on experience and capabilities which will be assessed during the interview process.
Salary Range
USD $165,000.00 - USD $195,000.00 /Yr.
Benefits you will enjoy
Access benefits information on our Life@Exponent page: https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent
Exponent is a proud equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status.
If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, you may email us at HR-Accommodations@exponent.com.
Job Locations
US-WA-Seattle
US-CA-Menlo Park
US-MA-Natick
US-GA-Atlanta
US-AZ-Phoenix
US-TX-Austin
US-CO-Denver
US-MD-Bowie