ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Materials Engineer Phd Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

ERC, Inc

Material Engineer IV

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Materials Engineer For more than 30 years, ERC has been delivering the advantage needed to solve ... PhD in Engineering in the appropriate area of specialization or related discipline from an ...

ERC, Inc.

Material Engineer IV

Redstone Arsenal, AL · On-site

In your role as a Materials Engineer, you will be responsible for collecting various evidence of ... PhD in Engineering in the appropriate area of specialization or related discipline from an ...

ERC Inc.

Material Engineer IV

Huntsville, AL · On-site

In your role as a Materials Engineer, you will be responsible for collecting various evidence of ... PhD in Engineering in the appropriate area of specialization or related discipline from an ...

Leidos

Additive Manufacturing Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

... materials science, manufacturing engineering, or a related field from an ABET accredited university. * 4+ years experience in metal additive manufacturing, or MS with 2+ years experience, or PhD with ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMaterials Engineer Phd JobsMaterials Engineer Phd Jobs in Alabama

Materials Engineer Phd information

See Alabama salary details

$34.4K

$91.3K

$143.2K

How much do materials engineer phd jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for materials engineer phd in Alabama is $91,308.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,500.00 and $105,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a materials engineer PhD?

Materials Engineers with a PhD are experts who study, develop, and improve materials used in a wide variety of applications, such as electronics, aerospace, and biomedical devices. Their advanced education allows them to conduct high-level research, design new materials, and solve complex engineering problems. They often work in research and development, academia, or specialized industries, contributing to innovations in materials science. Their work involves understanding the properties and behaviors of metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites at a fundamental level.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a materials engineer PhD?

To thrive as a Materials Engineer PhD, you need advanced expertise in materials science, analytical techniques, and a doctoral degree in materials engineering or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, materials characterization tools (such as SEM, TEM, XRD), and scientific software for modeling and data analysis is typically required. Strong critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and excellent written and verbal communication help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualifications are essential for driving innovative research, publishing impactful findings, and contributing to advancements in materials technology.

What opportunities are available for career advancement for a materials engineer PhD in industry settings?

Materials Engineers with a PhD often start in specialized research or development roles, but there are significant opportunities for advancement. With experience, you may move into senior scientist, project leader, or managerial positions, overseeing teams and strategic projects. Many organizations also offer pathways into technical consulting or innovation leadership, leveraging your advanced expertise to drive new product development. Career progression is often supported by ongoing professional development and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, providing a dynamic and rewarding environment.

What is the difference between Materials Engineer Phd vs Materials Scientist?

CriteriaMaterials Engineer PhdMaterials Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD in Materials Science or Engineering, advanced research experienceBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science, some roles may require a PhD
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departmentsResearch labs, academia, industry R&D
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing companies, aerospace, automotive, R&D firmsResearch institutions, industry, academia

Materials Engineer Phd and Materials Scientist roles often overlap in research and development. The PhD holder typically engages in advanced research, design, and problem-solving in manufacturing and product development, while Materials Scientists may focus more on fundamental research and material properties. Both roles require strong technical expertise, but the PhD often signifies a higher level of specialization and leadership in complex projects.

Are materials engineers in high demand?

Materials engineers with a PhD are in high demand in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and electronics due to their advanced expertise in developing new materials and improving existing ones. They often find opportunities in research and development roles, working with tools like microscopy and spectroscopy, and may require specialized certifications or security clearances depending on the sector.

Is a PhD in Materials Engineer worth it?

A PhD in Materials Engineering can lead to advanced research, teaching positions, and specialized roles in industries such as aerospace, electronics, and nanotechnology. It typically requires several years of study and research but can enhance expertise, job prospects, and earning potential in highly technical fields.

What can I do with a PhD in materials engineer?

A PhD in materials engineering prepares individuals for advanced research, development, and leadership roles in industries such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, and energy. Graduates often work in R&D laboratories, academia, or specialized manufacturing environments, utilizing skills in materials characterization, testing, and computer-aided design. Certification and knowledge of industry standards can enhance career prospects in this field.

What are popular job titles related to Materials Engineer Phd jobs in Alabama?

For Materials Engineer Phd jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Materials Engineer Phd jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Materials Engineer Phd jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Materials Engineer Phd jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Materials Engineer Phd job openings:

Materials Engineer Phd jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Engineer Phd job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,308 per year, or $43.9 per hour.

Material Engineer IV

ERC, Inc

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Other

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Location: RWESS - Redstone Arsenal - Huntsville, AL 35808 US (Primary)

Job Type: Full-Time

Job Title: Materials Engineer

For more than 30 years, ERC has been delivering the advantage needed to solve our customers’ and the nation’s toughest challenges. ERC is a trusted partner to the Defense and Space communities. We provide the advanced engineering, innovative technology, and subject-matter expertise to deliver the mission results our customers need to keep the nation safe and secure. Our unique solutions enhance readiness, optimize performance, and help ensure success in the air, on the ground and in space.

In your role as a Materials Engineer, you will be responsible for collecting various evidence of material properties by performing various material characterization tasks including metallographic evaluations to determine microstructure, verification, and determination of alloy composition, and using various elemental analysis tools.

What you’ll do all day:
  • Collect evidence of material properties by performing material characterization tasks including metallographic evaluations to determine:
    • microstructure
    • verification
    • determination of alloy composition
    • using various elemental analysis tools
  • Support a variety of tests using established methods and procedures.
You will love this job if you:
  • Are a self-starter and require little oversight to complete given tasks
  • Enjoy a fast-paced work environment
  • Love working with diverse groups of individuals, including engineers and technicians
  • Are good at communicating with people
  • Have a positive attitude
Minimum requirements for this position:
  • Must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in Material Engineering from an accredited university and 9 years of combined engineering and technical experience, including 6 years of project experience; or a Master’s Degree in the designated technical area of specialization from an accredited university and 7 years of combined engineering and technical experience, including 4 years of project experience; or a PhD in Engineering in the appropriate area of specialization or related discipline from an accredited college/university and 5 years of applicable experience, including 2 years of project experience, performing engineering, analysis, and related functions in research, development, test and evaluation in support of military equipment and systems.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret Clearance (U.S. Citizenship is required for all applicants)
What we offer:
  • Continuing education assistance.
  • 401K with employer matching.
  • Paid time off (PTO) along with federally recognized holiday schedule.
#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply