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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 ...

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$52.5K

$122.9K

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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.

Research Associate in Materials Science and Engineering

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

University Of Virginia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

211th of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Virginia is accepting applications for a postdoctoral research associate position that focuses on transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and defect characterization in materials.
The research conducted in Prof. Zhou's laboratory focuses on advanced in-situ/ex-situ electron microscopy and spectroscopy, materials for quantum information science, and phases and phase transitions in ferroic materials.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Design and execute novel in situ and ex situ electron microscopy studies of thin film heterostructures and devices for quantum computing
  • Publish results in high-impact journals
  • Mentor graduate and undergraduate students

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering or a closely related field, with a dissertation emphasizing electron microscopy
  • Extensive experience with TEM and complementary techniques, including aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), high-resolution TEM (HRTEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS).
  • Strong expertise in TEM specimen preparation (e.g., focus ion beam (FIB) milling and conventional methods)
  • Experience in electric-field mapping (using electron microscopy and related techniques) or in EELS is highly desirable.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in written and spoken English for effective communication with collaborators and sponsors
  • Excellent analytical and record-keeping skills, with strong attention to detail.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
Apply online at https://jobs.virginia.edu/us and search for R0086399. Attach the following documents: a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references. Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the box .
APPLICATION DEADLINE:
Review of applications will begin on August 24, 2026, but the position will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.
This is a one-year appointment, and the appointment may be renewed contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.
For questions about the position, please contact Lin Zhou, Associate Professor, at linzhou@virginia.edu .
For questions regarding the application, please contact Rich Haverstrom, Faculty Search Advisor, at rkh6j@virginia.edu .
A competitive salary and benefits package is offered at University of Virginia. For more information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits .
Job Profile
J0267 - Research Associate - 12 Month
Career Stream and Level
No Career Stream-No Level
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .

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About University of Virginia

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The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819

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