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Material Scientist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

ATCC

Senior Scientist

Manassas, VA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

ATCC, a global nonprofit that provides trusted biological materials for science and health, is seeking a Senior Scientist, Bacteriology to provide scientific leadership for applied bacteriology ...

ATCC

Senior Scientist

Manassas, VA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

A global nonprofit that provides trusted biological materials for science and health, ATCC is hiring a Senior Scientist supporting federal programs. This is an onsite role in Manassas, VA. The Senior ...

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

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 ...

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

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 ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Material Chemist

Lorton, VA

$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 ...

advansix

R&D Engineer / Scientist

Chester, VA · On-site

Nylon Lead R&D Scientist (Polymer Chemistry & Process Technology Focus) Position Summary The Nylon ... Apply advanced analytical techniques (e.g., rheology, DSC, GPC, IR, NMR) to characterize materials ...

advansix

R&D Engineer / Scientist

Chester, VA · On-site

Nylon Lead R&D Scientist (Polymer Chemistry & Process Technology Focus) Position Summary The Nylon ... Apply advanced analytical techniques (e.g., rheology, DSC, GPC, IR, NMR) to characterize materials ...

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Material Scientist information

See Virginia salary details

$52.5K

$122.9K

$171.5K

How much do material scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for material scientist in Virginia is $122,910.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,700.00 and $165,600.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Material Scientist jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Material Scientist jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Material Scientist jobs in Virginia?

For Material Scientist jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Material Scientist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Material Scientist job openings:

Material Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Material Scientist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 79% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,910 per year, or $59.1 per hour.

Senior Scientist

ATCC

Manassas, VA • On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Ready to shape the future of science and global health? ATCC, a global nonprofit that provides trusted biological materials for science and health, is seeking a Senior Scientist, Bacteriology to provide scientific leadership for applied bacteriology programs supporting biological materials manufacturing and bioproduction. This onsite role in Manassas, VA leads research initiatives, supports product development and technology transfer, contributes to proposal development and business growth, and serves as a technical authority collaborating across quality, operations, and commercial teams. 
 
Join ATCC and be part of a team that supports the global scientific community with trusted, authenticated biological materials.

  • Scientific Technical Expertise in Bacteriology and Infectious Disease: Lead bacteriology and infectious disease research supporting validated products and services, serving as a subject matter expert and primary individual contributor while providing technical leadership and guidance to scientific staff.
  • Program and Project Execution: Design, plan, and direct applied research studies in medical bacteriology and infectious disease; select appropriate methodologies, troubleshoot complex technical challenges, analyze and interpret data, and ensure reproducibility, biosafety, and scientific rigor.
  • Documentation, Quality, and Compliance: Develop, review, and maintain protocols, reports, and controlled documentation in alignment with quality systems, data integrity expectations, biosafety requirements, and applicable regulatory and compliance standards.
  • Collaboration, Proposals, and Business Development: Partner crossfunctionally on infectious disease–focused new product development, technology transfer, and informatics initiatives; contribute scientific expertise to grant and contract proposals and cultivate external scientific and public health relationships. 

  • Minimum Requirement: PhD and 5 years of experience, or equivalent experience (Master's degree and 8 years, or Bachelor's degree and 12 years).
  • Advanced expertise in bacteriology, including cultivation, characterization, preservation, and quality control of medically relevant bacteria
  • Demonstrated ability to operate autonomously with broad organizational impact
  • Proven leadership of laboratory operations with strict adherence to biosafety, biosecurity, and regulatory requirements
  • Experience mentoring and supervising scientific staff
  • Strong scientific judgment, advanced troubleshooting skills, and commitment to data quality
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Record of relevant publications or scientific presentations
  • Experience with experimental design, advanced data analysis, and controlled documentation
  • Experience supporting proposals, external funding, or contract research
  • Familiarity with technology transfer and crossfunctional product development
  • Experience with workforce planning and budget preparation preferred
  • Preferred: Prior experience working on a federally funded project.   

The expected salary range for this position is $120,000 to $140,000 annually. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience and qualifications as well as internal equity and alignment with market data. In addition to base salary, this role may be eligible for additional incentive compensation including regular merit increases and the corporate bonus program.

We Invest in You 

 

  • Health & Wellness: 
    • Comprehensive medical coverage and company paid Life Insurance, Disability Insurance, AD&D, and paid parental leave
    • Work life balance with Paid Holidays and PTO
    • Fitness and cell phone subsidies, and additional benefits such as legal services, pet insurance and additional supplemental coverage.  
    • Employee Assistance Program offering around-the-clock counseling
  • Financial security: 
    • 401(a) (6% employer contribution) and 403(b) (2% match) retirement plans
    • Exceptional career advancement opportunities, recognition, and rewards
    • Corporate bonus program
  • Mission Focused:
    • Non-profit organization supporting critical life science research
    • We give scientists the tools they need to make discoveries that improve and save lives
    • Contribute to community involvement and social responsibility

Join ATCC, where we fuel your success, well-being, and development. We're a mission-focused non-profit Equal Opportunity Employer, celebrating a century of supporting global public health.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.  Shape the future of science with us.

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