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Materials Engineer Phd Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Master's or PhD degree in Metallurgical or Materials Engineering, * or a related field. * DFSS Black Belt or Master Black Belt. * Familiarity with automotive industry standards and regulations. GM ...

Master's or PhD in Materials Science, Metallurgical Engineering, or related discipline * Experience with automotive body, chassis, powertrain, battery enclosure, or structural component materials

Director Global Rubber Material

Northville, MI · On-site

$219K - $229K/yr

Master's or PhD in Polymer Science, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering strongly preferred. * Typically 12+ years of experience in formulation, materials development, or polymer engineering within a ...

Research Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$115K - $165K/yr

PhD in battery materials science, engineering, chemistry or related fields * 5 years of experience in using optical systems to measure physical battery phenomena * A wide range of material analysis ...

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Materials Engineer Phd information

See Michigan salary details

$33.1K

$87.8K

$137.7K

How much do materials engineer phd jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for materials engineer phd in Michigan is $87,803.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,700.00 and $101,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Materials Engineer Phd job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,803 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Chassis Materials Engineer

General Motors

Warren, MI • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


General Motors rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

General Motors

Based on 306 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Automakers average

Based on 6,282 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Description

At General Motors, our product teams are redefining mobility. Through a human-centered design process, we create vehicles and experiences that are designed not just to be seen, but to be felt. We're turning today's impossible into tomorrow's standard -from breakthrough hardware and battery systems to intuitive design, intelligent software, and next-generation safety and entertainment features.

Every day, our products move millions of peopleas we aim to makedriving safer, smarter, and more connected, shaping the future of transportation on a global scale.

The Role:

The Chassis Materials Engineer will apply a strong metallurgy and materials engineering background to specify materials used in vehicle design, with a focus on gears, driveline systems, axles, prop shafts, and related components.

What You'll Do (Responsibilities)

  • Specify chassis/HVAC material call-out for use on vehicle parts.

  • Write specifications related to materials for use on vehicle parts.

  • Research, study and test new material combinations to reduce cost and weight and improve strength at the same time they take ensure the combinations can be joint, either welded or through dispense and that the process will be reliable and repeatable.

  • Design and conduct advanced material testing to evaluate performance under various conditions.

  • Oversee the development and implementation of lightweight and sustainable materials.

  • Perform in-depth failure analysis and develop solutions to material-related issues.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize production processes and ensure high-quality output.

  • Innovate and integrate new materials and technologies into vehicle design.

  • Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.

  • Coordinate with suppliers to ensure material quality and availability.

  • Document and present research findings, test results, and material specifications.

  • Mentor and guide junior engineers in their professional development.

Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications)

  • Bachelor's degree in Materials or Metallurgical Engineering, or a related field.

  • Strong proficiency in data analysis techniques and software for interpreting material test results and process optimization.

  • Solid understanding of various metallurgical manufacturing processes.

  • Experience with material testing methodologies and equipment.

  • Excellent problem-solving skills and a strong analytical mindset.

  • Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional team environment.

  • Strong communication and presentation skills, both written and verbal.

  • 5+ years of proven experience in metallurgy and materials development, characterization, and application, preferably within the automotive industry.

What Will Give You A Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)

  • Master's or PhD degree in Metallurgical or Materials Engineering,

  • or a related field.

  • DFSS Black Belt or Master Black Belt.

  • Familiarity with automotive industry standards and regulations.

GM does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you will need GM immigration sponsorship now or in the future. This includes direct company sponsorship, entry of GM as the immigration employer of record on a government form, and any work authorization requiring a written submission or other immigration support from the company (e.g., H1-B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc). This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the selected candidate is expected to report to a specific location at least 3 times a week {or other frequency dictated by their manager}. This job is not eligible for relocation benefits. Any relocation costs would be the responsibility of the selected candidate.

About GM

Our vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.

Why Join Us

We believe we all must make a choice every day - individually and collectively - to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.

Benefits Overview

From day one, we're looking out for your well-being-at work and at home-so you can focus on realizing your ambitions. Learn how GM supports a rewarding career that rewards you personally by visiting Total Rewards resources.

Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)

General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of unlawful discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that providing an inclusive workplace creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers.

All employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, disability, pregnancy or maternity status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran or protected veteran, or any other similarly protected status in accordance with federal, state and local laws.

We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role-related assessment(s) and/or a pre-employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire.

Accommodations

General Motors offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, email us or call us at 1-800-865-7580. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.


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About General Motors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Motors is a company with global scale and capabilities, headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, with employees around the world. The company employs over 165,000 people, serves six continents, operates across 22 time zones, and has a diverse workforce speaking 75 languages1. GM’s vision is to drive the world forward by pioneering innovations that move and connect people to what matters. The company is working towards an all-electric future with its new Ultium Platform and is pushing transportation options beyond our wildest imaginations with autonomous vehicles. GM is also committed to becoming the most inclusive company in the world.

Industry

Transportation equipment manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Detroit, MI, US

Year founded

1908