ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Materials Characterization Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Entegris

Material Characterization Scientist

Aurora, IL · On-site

$114K - $144K/yr

Job Title: Material Characterization Scientist Entegris is currently seeking a Polymer ... PhD in Polymer Science, Materials Science or related field required * 3+ years of post-graduate ...

RJ Lee Group Inc

Materials Scientist

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

We are seeking a Materials Scientist or Applied Physicist to join our Materials Characterization team and contribute to technically complex investigations involving material performance ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMaterials Characterization Scientist Jobs

Materials Characterization Scientist information

See salary details

$53K

$124K

$173K

How much do materials characterization scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for materials characterization scientist in the United States is $123,973.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,500.00 and $167,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Materials Characterization Scientist position, and why are they important?

To excel as a Materials Characterization Scientist, you need a solid background in materials science, chemistry, or physics, with experience in analytical techniques such as spectroscopy, microscopy, and diffraction. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation like SEM, TEM, XRD, and relevant software analysis tools, as well as safety certifications, is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective scientific communication are highly valued soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure precise data interpretation, safe laboratory practices, and successful collaboration on multidisciplinary research projects.

What are typical daily responsibilities for a Materials Characterization Scientist?

As a Materials Characterization Scientist, your typical day may involve preparing material samples, operating advanced analytical equipment like electron microscopes or spectrometers, and interpreting complex data sets to understand material properties. You will often document your results, troubleshoot experimental issues, and maintain laboratory safety protocols. Collaboration with chemists, engineers, or product development teams is common, especially when providing insights that inform new material design or process improvements. Regularly, you may be tasked with presenting your findings to colleagues or clients, contributing to reports, and keeping up-to-date with advancements in characterization techniques.

Are materials scientists in demand?

Materials scientists are in demand due to ongoing advancements in technology, manufacturing, and research sectors that require expertise in material properties and testing. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as industries seek innovative materials and rely on specialized characterization techniques such as microscopy and spectroscopy.

What jobs can I get with a materials science degree?

A materials science degree qualifies individuals for roles such as materials characterization scientist, materials engineer, quality control analyst, research scientist, and failure analysis engineer. These positions often involve working with laboratory equipment, analyzing material properties, and developing new materials, typically requiring knowledge of microscopy, spectroscopy, and materials testing methods.

How much money does a materials scientist usually make?

Materials characterization scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced skills, certifications, and working in specialized industries can lead to higher compensation.

What is a Materials Characterization Scientist job?

A Materials Characterization Scientist analyzes the structure, composition, and properties of materials to understand their performance and improve their applications. They use techniques such as spectroscopy, microscopy, and diffraction to investigate materials at atomic and molecular levels. This role is essential in industries like electronics, aerospace, and pharmaceuticals, where material properties directly impact product quality. Scientists in this field collaborate with engineers and researchers to develop new materials, troubleshoot issues, and optimize manufacturing processes. Their work supports innovation by ensuring materials meet desired specifications and industry standards.

What jobs do material scientists do?

Materials characterization scientists analyze the properties and structures of materials using techniques such as microscopy, spectroscopy, and mechanical testing. They work in laboratories or research settings to develop, improve, or evaluate materials for industries like aerospace, electronics, or healthcare, often requiring knowledge of materials science, chemistry, or physics.
More about Materials Characterization Scientist jobs
What cities are hiring for Materials Characterization Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Materials Characterization Scientist job openings:
What states have the most Materials Characterization Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Materials Characterization Scientist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Materials Characterization Scientist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Materials Characterization Scientist jobs are:
Materials Characterization Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Characterization Scientist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,973 per year, or $59.6 per hour.

Material Characterization Scientist

Naval Nuclear Laboratory

Niskayuna, NY • On-site

$117K - $184K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Naval Nuclear Laboratory rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

About Us

Working at the Naval Nuclear Laboratory we foster pride in belonging to an organization whose culture is made up of these core values: Trust, Empowerment, and Collaboration. Our company promotes a positive culture while ensuring the safety and reliability of our nation's naval nuclear reactors, and training the Sailors who operate those reactors in the U.S. Navy's submarines and aircraft carrier Fleets. Looking for a lifetime career? Apply today!

Job Description

The Materials Characterization Scientist will be responsible for advanced materials characterization, with a focus in Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD), and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). Work includes supporting complex programs, in both research and production support for microstructural analysis. The individual will be managing equipment in technical laboratories, including supporting equipment of the SEM, be responsible for laboratory operations, including equipment oversight and compliance with safety and radiological requirements. The successful candidate will collaborate with a cross-functional workgroup to develop and apply new methods, drive innovation, and execution high quality work including analysis, meticulous documentation, technical reporting, and communicating findings to multidisciplinary teams.

Required Combination of Knowledge and Skill
Bachelors degree from an accredited college or university in a related technical, engineering or science field and a minimum of 9 years of relevant experience; or Masters degree from an accredited college or university in a related technical, engineering or science field and a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience; or Doctorate degree from an accredited college or university in a related technical, engineering, science field and a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience; or Currently a Principal Reactor Training Engineer, Refueling Engineer, or Field (RPCO) Engineer at the Company.
Preferred Skills

* Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Materials Science, Mechanical, Metallurgy, Ceramic Engineering, Physics, or a closely related field
* Familiarity with additional materials characterization tools (e.g., Focused Ion Beam(FIB), Microprobe, Wavelength dispersive spectroscopy (WDS), X-ray Florescence (XRF), hardness testing)
* Experience supporting Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Defense (DOD), or Nuclear Navy programs
* Advanced data analysis experience related to analytical materials characterization
* Experience with failure analysis and quality assurance of production or design issues.
* Experience in radiological environments
* Background in production, engineering, or practical experience supporting fleet operations
* Familiarity with ceramics, metallic alloys, and other materials relevant to nuclear environments
* Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary technical initiatives or projects

* Demonstrated proficiency with electron microscopy techniques, including measurement and analysis
* Strong understanding of material structures, materials characterization methods, and physical chemistry
* Experience working in a laboratory or research environment, preferably in an applied engineering context
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with capability to prepare technical reports

Compensation and Benefits
  • Health, Dental, Vision & Voluntary Benefits
  • Disability, Life & Accident Insurance
  • 401(k) Savings program & Capital Accumulation Plan
  • Personal & Medical Time Off
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Flexible Work Schedules
  • Tuition Assistance for Eligible Employees
  • Student Debt Benefit Personal Time Off Sell Program
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Wellness Program
  • Visit us online to view all NNL benefits!
Pay Range
$117,900.00 - $184,300.00 annually
Salary information provided is a general guideline only. Annual salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is operated for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) by Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC (FMP), a wholly owned subsidiary of Fluor Corporation. Naval Nuclear Laboratory personnel are FMP employees who work at four DOE facilities: Bettis Atomic Power Laboratory, Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory, Kenneth A. Kesselring Site, and Naval Reactors Facility, and at the U.S. Department of Defense-owned Nuclear Power Training Unit-Charleston. FMP employees also have an established presence at numerous shipyards and vendor locations. For nearly 70 years, the Naval Nuclear Laboratory has developed advanced nuclear propulsion technology, provided technical support, and trained world-class nuclear operators to ensure the safe and reliable operation of our nation's submarine and aircraft carrier Fleets. The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is a national asset solely dedicated to the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. We rely on the dedication and innovation of our nearly 8000 engineers, scientists, technicians, and support personnel.

All candidates must be U.S. citizens. Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter. FMP is a government contractor and maintains a drug free workplace and workforce. All candidates must be able to pass a drug test in compliance with FMP company policy and 10 CFR 707. Marijuana is a Federal Schedule I controlled substance and illegal under Federal Law. Therefore, FMP is required to test for marijuana.

Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other criteria protected by federal, state, or local law.

Apply Now Back to results

What Naval Nuclear Laboratory employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply