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Material Science Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Specifically, the focus is around material science and chemical technologies. You will work on unusually complex problems and provide highly innovative solutions by collaborating with engineers ...

Material Chemist

Lorton, VA · On-site +1

$69K - $158K/yr

Specifically, the focus is around material science and chemical technologies. You will work on unusually complex problems and provide highly innovative solutions by collaborating with engineers ...

Material Chemist

Lorton, VA · On-site

$69K - $158K/yr

Specifically, the focus is around material science and chemical technologies. You will work on unusually complex problems and provide highly innovative solutions by collaborating with engineers ...

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Material Science information

See Washington, DC salary details

$10

$25

$35

How much do material science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for material science in Washington, DC is $25.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $28.46 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 are the most commonly searched types of Material Science jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Material Science jobs in Washington, DC are:
What job categories do people searching Material Science jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Material Science jobs in Washington, DC are:
Infographic showing various Material Science job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 79% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,109 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

$69K - $158K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Booz Allen Hamilton rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 72 rated business consultants


Job description

Material Chemist

The Opportunity:

Become a part of our warfighter technology team delivering breakthrough technologies for our customers by providing innovative solutions that address critical mission challenges. As a long-term defense partner, Booz Allen delivers advanced technology that furthers essential priorities of the joint force, allies, and global partners. In this role, you will do that by working in a dynamic team that is responsible for developing, integrating, testing, and transitioning unique soft material technologies that result in emerging fieldable solutions for our defense customers.

As a material chemist on our team, you'll support internal initiatives and government customers by executing product development efforts across internal and external teams. You'll perform custom formulations, develop soft materials, generate test samples, coordinate with suppliers and manufacturers, and support material projects that address critical mission outcomes. You'll wear multiple hats such as a formulator, engineer, applied scientist, applicator, and technical expert, ensuring that material solutions are aligned to mission priorities and progress in technology readiness and manufacturability. Your contributions will help drive technological solutions that support critical mission challenges.

This role will require focus on technology maturation, transition and integration within the defense industry, and technical project management. Specifically, the focus is around material science and chemical technologies. You will work on unusually complex problems and provide highly innovative solutions by collaborating with engineers, scientists, and mission experts.

Join us. The world can't wait.

You Have:

  • 5+ years of experience developing chemicals, soft material, or specialized coatings to support industrial, petrochemical, or defense customers
  • 5+ years of experience with polymer science, formulary science, additives, or applied science
  • 1+ years of experience with testing, evaluation, and compliance with standard methods such as ISO, ASTM, and MIL-SPEC
  • Experience executing across multiple projects that are composed of multidisciplinary teams of scientists, engineers, business professionals, mission partners, vendors, and sub-contractors
  • Knowledge of technology, manufacturing, and integration readiness levels, or launch, maintenance, or sustainment of soft material technologies
  • Ability to travel up to 25% of the time
  • Secret clearance
  • Bachelor's degree in a Material Science, Chemistry, Physics, or Engineering field

Nice If You Have:

  • 1+ years of experience working on a team in a fast-paced environmentand in project management
  • Experience supporting the DoD with both contractual and technical requirements testing and evaluation, market research, technology scouting, material integration, procurement of development items, financial tracking, and schedule development
  • Experience with Lean, Six Sigma, Agile, Kanban, or other project management styles
  • Master's degree in Materials Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field preferred; Doctorate degree in Materials Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field a plus

Clearance:

Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information; Secret clearance is required.

Compensation

At Booz Allen, we celebrate your contributions, provide you with opportunities and choices, and support your total well-being. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, work-life programs, and dependent care. Our recognition awards program acknowledges employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our values. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in Booz Allen's benefit programs. Individuals that do not meet the threshold are only eligible for select offerings, not inclusive of health benefits. We encourage you to learn more about our total benefits by visiting the Resource page on our Careers site and reviewing Our Employee Benefits page.

Salary at Booz Allen is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $69,400.00 to $158,000.00 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of Booz Allen's total compensation package for employees. This posting will close within 90 days from the Posting Date.

Identity Statement

As part of the hiring process, we will ask you to complete an identity verification process that leverages advanced biometrics and artificial intelligence to ensure authenticity and protect against identity fraud. You are expected to be on camera during interviews and assessments. We reserve the right to take your picture to verify your identity and prevent fraud.

Candidate AI Usage Policy

AI is a part of our daily work at Booz Allen, and we are committed to the responsible and ethical use of AI tools. However, we want to ensure a fair candidate process based on your own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or other tools to assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is prohibited unless permission is explicitly provided.

Work Model
Our people-first culture prioritizes the benefits of collaboration, whether it occurs in person or virtually. To support engagement and effective communication, employees working virtually are generally expected to have their cameras on during meetings.

  • Remote: If this position is listed as remote, there may still be occasions when you are required to work in person at a Booz Allen or customer facility.

  • Hybrid: If this position is listed as hybrid, you will be expected to work from a Booz Allen facility frequently, in alignment with leadership expectations and the needs of the role. You may also be required to work from or visit a customer facility.

  • Onsite: If this position is listed as onsite, work will primarily be performed at a Booz Allen office or customer facility, where employees will collaborate directly with colleagues and customers as required by the role.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local, or international law.


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About Booz Allen Hamilton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Booz Allen Hamilton is a leading provider of management and technology consulting services to the US government in defense, intelligence, and civil markets. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, the firm also serves major corporations, institutions, and not-for-profit organizations. Founded in 1914 by Edwin G. Booz, the company has a long-standing tradition of helping clients achieve success by delivering a wide range of consulting services that include strategic planning, human capital and learning, communication, systems development, and others. The company's mission is to empower people to change the world, and it has a reputation for maintaining the highest standards of integrity and-excellence.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1914