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Material Scientist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Luna Labs USA

Principal Materials Scientist

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Principal Materials Scientist About Luna Labs Luna Labs is a product development company working ... Demonstrated track record of taking lab-scale formulation/material concepts to pilot scale ...

ATCC

Senior Scientist

Manassas, VA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

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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$122.9K

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How much do material scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Material Scientist jobs in Virginia?

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

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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:

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Material Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Material Scientist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,910 per year, or $59.1 per hour.

Principal Materials Scientist

Luna Labs USA

Blacksburg, VA • On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Principal Materials Scientist
About Luna Labs
Luna Labs is a product development company working with leading organizations and key government agencies to create unique solutions for complex challenges in defense, industrial, and healthcare markets. We operate like a self-contained incubator for defense and biotech startups, taking solutions from concept through development to new products in the market.
We leverage small business agility and large business capabilities to accelerate breakthrough solutions from concept to early-stage growth. Working with a robust global network of manufacturers, suppliers, licensees, and distributors, Luna Labs develops everything from small-scale prototypes to market-ready products.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a creative and versatile Principal Materials Scientist to lead cutting-edge research focused on developing practical and novel materials solutions in polymer and nanocomposite materials for coatings, adhesives, sealants, and reinforced composites. Success in this position requires a blend of deep technical expertise, entrepreneurial thinking, and strong leadership capabilities. We're looking for a self-starter who thrives in ambiguous environments and excels at generating new strategic directions. You will identify emerging opportunities, secure funding, mentor technical staff, navigate uncertainty with confidence, and guide technologies from initial concepts to market-ready solutions.
Primary Responsibilities
Technical Leadership amp; Project Management
  • Lead and execute R amp;D projects including setting project direction and managing technical milestones, reports, deliverables, budgets
  • Generate innovative ideas and identify technology opportunities that address significant customer needs
  • Drive project progress through regular meetings and effective use of management tools (e.g., Gantt charts, OneNote, SharePoint, CostPoint)
  • Deliver project updates and technical presentations to internal teams and external collaborators, including government agencies
  • Author high-quality proposals to secure research funding
Business Development amp; Commercialization
  • Develop and execute funding strategies to support technology development initiatives
  • Build and maintain relationships with customers, government stakeholders, and strategic partners
  • Lead the development of new technologies into product concepts, prototype design, and commercialization to transition to government and commercial customers
Team Development
  • Mentor and train technical staff, fostering professional growth and technical excellence
  • Participate in supervisory responsibilities and team leadership activities
Required Qualifications amp; Skills:
  • Education: Ph.D. or Masters Degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science or related field
  • Experience: 3+ years in laboratory research, proposal writing, and program management
  • Demonstrated knowledge in one or more of the following areas: paints and coatings, polymers, synthetic fibers, textiles, multifunctional composites, nanocomposite materials
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities
  • Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills
  • Outstanding organizational and problem-solving capabilities
  • Due to government contracting regulations, U.S. Citizenship is a firm requirement.
Strongly Desired:
  • Familiarity with federal grant/contract mechanisms (e.g., SBIR/STTR programs) and transitioning technology into dual-use (government and commercial) markets
  • Demonstrated track record of taking lab-scale formulation/material concepts to pilot scale, validated prototypes, and commercial product lines
Work Environment
  • This role is based in Blacksburg, VA
  • Occasional travel to client sites, conferences, or related events may be required
  • Duties may occasionally be completed remotely using secure company equipment and software, at the supervisor's discretion.
  • Safety amp; PPE: Strictly follows environmental health and safety (EHS) guidelines; requires wearing standard PPE (safety glasses, gloves, lab coats, and respirators when needed)
  • Lab Operations: Involves hands-on research and technical interaction with lab staff, operating thermal/mechanical equipment, and handling of various chemicals (polymers, solvents, resins, adhesives, and powders) in fume hoods
  • Physical Requirements: Ability to stand for multi-hour periods during experimental runs, perform fine-motor lab procedures, and occasionally lift or move equipment/materials up to 40 lbs.
What We Offer
  • Salary Range: $85,000 -- $100,000 annually, depending on experience
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Opportunities for professional development and continued education
  • Collaborative, innovation-focused work culture
Luna Labs USA logo

About Luna Labs USA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

2022

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