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Material Scientist Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

As a Scientist, you will create new technologies and problem solve in structural and environmental sealing materials and processes through a technically fundamental approach. Duties ...

... material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an emerging global presence in Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations. It also has a rapidly developing ...

Research Scientist

Madison Heights, MI · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Bachelor's degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science or equivalent, from four-year college or university. Master's or Ph.D. strongly preferred * 3-5 years of related chemistry ...

Research Scientist

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$105K - $180K/yr

Experienced with various materials characterization and spectroscopic methods * Proactive ... D. in physics, materials science, electrical engineering or related fields in optoelectronic ...

Research Scientist

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$105K - $180K/yr

Experienced with various materials characterization and spectroscopic methods * Proactive ... D. in physics, materials science, electrical engineering or related fields in optoelectronic ...

Experienced with various materials characterization and spectroscopic methods * Proactive ... D. in physics, materials science, electrical engineering or related fields in optoelectronic ...

Research Scientist

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$105K - $180K/yr

Experienced with various materials characterization and spectroscopic methods * Proactive ... D. in physics, materials science, electrical engineering or related fields in optoelectronic ...

Showing results 21-40

Material Scientist information

See Michigan salary details

$46.2K

$108.1K

$150.8K

How much do material scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for material scientist in Michigan is $108,054.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $145,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a material scientist do?

A Material Scientist researches, develops, and analyzes materials to improve existing products or create new ones. They study the properties and structures of metals, ceramics, polymers, composites, and other substances to enhance performance, durability, and sustainability. Material Scientists work in various industries, including aerospace, healthcare, electronics, and manufacturing, ensuring materials meet specific technical and safety standards.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a material scientist?

To thrive as a Material Scientist, you need a strong background in materials engineering or chemistry, supported by at least a bachelor's degree in a related field (often a master's or Ph.D. is preferred). Familiarity with analytical tools such as SEM, XRD, and laboratory management systems, as well as relevant certifications or training in material characterization techniques, is highly valued. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set standout professionals apart. These abilities are essential for conducting high-quality research, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, and driving innovation in material development.

What opportunities for career advancement are available to material scientists?

Material Scientists often have diverse pathways for career growth, including progressing into senior research roles, project management, or specialized technical leadership positions. With experience and advanced education, some professionals move into roles that focus on product development, quality assurance, or even executive leadership in research and development. Many organizations also support continued training and professional development, allowing Material Scientists to expand their expertise and take on more complex projects. Advancement can come from both demonstrated technical excellence and the ability to coordinate and lead cross-functional teams.

How much do material scientists get paid?

Material scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $97,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $60,000 to over $150,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced skills in characterization techniques and research can lead to higher compensation, especially in industrial or research settings.

Is material scientist high paying?

Material scientists typically earn competitive salaries, with median annual wages above the national average for all occupations. Salaries vary based on experience, education, location, and industry, with those working in research and development or specialized fields often earning higher pay. Advanced degrees and skills in characterization tools like microscopy or spectroscopy can also influence earning potential.

Is materials science high paying?

Materials scientists typically earn competitive salaries, with median wages above the national average for many professions. Salaries vary based on experience, education, industry, and location, and advanced skills or certifications can lead to higher pay. Overall, materials science can be a financially rewarding career path.

What job categories do people searching Material Scientist jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Material Scientist jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Material Scientist jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Material Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Material Scientist job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 79% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,054 per year, or $51.9 per hour.

$96K - $122K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Toyota rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 876 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 45 rated automakers


Job description

Overview
Who we are
Collaborative. Respectful. A place to dream and do. These are just a few words that describe what life is like at Toyota. As one of the world's most admired brands, Toyota is growing and leading the future of mobility through innovative, high-quality solutions designed to enhance lives and delight those we serve. We're looking for talented team members who want to Dream. Do. Grow. with us.
Toyota does not offer support or sponsorship of job applicants for employment-based visas or any other work authorization for this role now or in the future. You must have the right to work in the United States and not require Toyota support or sponsorship for immigration-related employment (e.g., H-1B, O-1, E-3, H-1B1, TN, F-1 OPT, F-1 STEM OPT, F-1 CPT, 'job flexibility benefits' [also known as I-140 or Adjustment of Status portability], etc.) now or in the future. You should not apply for this role if you will require Toyota to assist with immigration support or sponsorship now or in the future.
Who we're looking for
Toyota Research Institute of North America, located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is seeking a Senior Scientist to lead the in-house research on hydrocarbon polymer materials.
This role will join a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers to develop advanced hydrocarbon membrane and ionomer materials for fuel cell and water electrolysis applications.
The successful candidate will lead original research in the design, synthesis and characterization of polymer materials, while actively collaborating with academic and industry partners to accelerate in-house research efforts.
Candidates should be comfortable working in a collaborative environment with diverse scientific and engineering teams.
This role requires deep expertise in polymer synthesis and characterization to drive the development of hydrocarbon polymers. Responsibilities include synthesizing advanced hydrocarbon polymer materials and supporting their integration into electrochemical devices.
A key focus of this work will be addressing the critical performance and durability challenges associated with hydrocarbon polymers for fuel cell and water electrolysis applications.
This position offers a unique opportunity to advance polymer research from early laboratory concepts to practical applications.
What you'll be doing:
  • Lead the design, synthesis, and characterization of hydrocarbon polymer materials for membrane and ionomer applications in fuel cell and water electrolyzers.
  • Develop synthesis strategies to explore different types of hydrocarbon polymer chemistries and performance polymer characterizations using techniques such as GPC, NMR, IEC, DMA, and other relevant analytical methods.
  • Collaborate with electrochemical device experts to design and modify polymer structures and support material integration into fuel cell and water electrolysis devices.
  • Work with external partners to support polymer scale-up from laboratory synthesis to larger-scale batches.
  • Address emerging technical challenges in the field of polymer materials research.
  • Prepare high-impact publications, patent applications, and technical reports; deliver regular updates to the team and management; and present findings at conferences.
  • Contribute to defining technical roadmaps and project strategies in alignment with organizational goals.
  • Mentor and support junior scientists and lab assistants in the planning and execution of polymer research.

What you bring
  • Must possess a Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a closely related scientific discipline, with demonstrated expertise in polymer chemistry and materials development.
  • Minimum of 3+ years of experience and hands-on in monomer and polymer design, synthesis, modification, and characterization.
  • Experience developing and synthesizing advanced polymeric materials using a variety of polymerization and functionalization approaches is strongly preferred, including techniques such as Diels-Alder, condensation, ROMP, superacid polymerization, and sulfonation.
  • Experience with ion-exchange polymers for fuel cell and water electrolysis applications.

What you may bring
  • Experience in scaling polymer synthesis from laboratory scale to large-scale batch production.
  • Ability to excel in a fast-paced research environment, prioritize effectively, manage multiple tasks, and adapt to changing requirements.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Highly self-motivated, with intellectual curiosity, initiative, and a drive to overcome technical challenges.

What we'll bring
During your interview process, our team will provide you with all the details of our industry-leading benefits and career development opportunities. A few highlights include:
  • A work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect
  • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career, as well as tuition reimbursement
  • Team Member Vehicle Purchase Discount
  • Toyota Team Member Lease Vehicle Program (if applicable)
  • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans for your entire family
  • Toyota 401(k) Savings Plan featuring a company match, as well as an annual retirement contribution from Toyota regardless of whether you contribute (if applicable)
  • Paid holidays and paid time off
  • Referral services related to prenatal services, adoption, childcare, schools and more
  • Tax Advantaged Accounts (Health Savings Account, Health Care FSA, Dependent Care FSA)
  • Relocation (if applicable)

Belonging at Toyota
Our success begins and ends with our people. We embrace all perspectives and value unique human experiences. Respect for all is our North Star.
Applicants for our positions are considered without regard to race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, religion, military or veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.
Have a question, need assistance with your application or do you require any special accommodations? Please send an email to talent.acquisition@toyota.com.

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