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Materials Engineer Phd Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

L3HHCM20

Senior Propellant Chemical Engineer

Culpeper, VA · On-site

$76K - $142K/yr

Master's or PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Engineering or related science discipline preferred. * Knowledge of chemical principles, thermodynamics, polymer chemistry, structure ...

Dominion Energy

Consulting Engineer

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

$116 - $151/hr

Support Dominion field organizations in: * responses to equipment emergencies * material ... An Engineering PhD can be substituted for up to 5 years' experience based on research engineering ...

Dominion Energy

Consulting Engineer

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

Support Dominion field organizations in: * responses to equipment emergencies * material ... An Engineering PhD can be substituted for up to 5 years' experience based on research engineering ...

Dominion Energy

Consulting Engineer

Glen Allen, VA

Support Dominion field organizations in: * responses to equipment emergencies * material ... An Engineering PhD can be substituted for up to 5 years' experience based on research engineering ...

General Atomics

Engineer IV

Herndon, VA · On-site

$98K - $171K/yr

... material requirements. * Provides documentation and makes technical presentations as required ... Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical ...

DCS Corporation

Quantum Engineer SME

Springfield, VA · On-site

$86K - $115K/yr

PHD in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related discipline with 10+ years; or a Masters ... At least 2 years of experience creating briefing materials and technical documentation to translate ...

DCS Corp

Quantum Engineer SME

Springfield, VA

$86K - $114K/yr

PHD in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related discipline with 10+ years; or a Masters ... At least 2 years of experience creating briefing materials and technical documentation to translate ...

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Materials Engineer Phd information

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$37.7K

$99.9K

$156.6K

How much do materials engineer phd jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for materials engineer phd in Virginia is $99,874.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,300.00 and $115,500.00 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

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

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

Materials Engineer Phd jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Engineer Phd job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $99,874 per year, or $48 per hour.

Staff/ Principal Engineer, OCT MTE Material Engineering

Micron

Manassas, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Micron Technology rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 159 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

Our vision is to transform how the world uses information to enrich life for all.

Micron Technology is a world leader in innovating memory and storage solutions that accelerate the transformation of information into intelligence, inspiring the world to learn, communicate and advance faster than ever.

SummaryDepartment Introduction

The OCT Material & Filtration Engineering team supports Micron's global manufacturing network. The team focuses on material quality, risk reduction, and continuous improvement to enable successful technology ramps and sustainable manufacturing performance. We collaborate closely with engineering, quality, procurement, and operations partners around the world.

Position Overview

As an OCT MTE Material Engineering Staff/Principal Engineer, you will contribute to material quality, filtration strategy, and valueengineering efforts across multiple sites. In this role, you will help shape global material strategies, strengthen risk controls, and share guidelines that improve safety, quality, speed, and cost. This position offers opportunities to grow technical influence while making a meaningful impact on technology development and highvolume manufacturing.

Responsibilities
  • Support and lead material quality, filtration, risk mitigation, and valueengineering initiatives across the global network.
  • Partner with global and site teams to define and align material technical requirements and qualifications.
  • Develop, share, and sustain Best Known Methods (BKMs) across manufacturing sites.
  • Collaborate with fabs to build and complete material roadmaps that support technology ramps.
  • Facilitate global peer teams to align priorities, strategies, and execution to manufacturing goals.
  • Plan and manage projects aligned to fab, central, and corporate objectives, balancing impact and resources.
  • Use data and benchmarks to identify improvement opportunities and help deploy scalable solutions.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Science or Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.
  • 5+ years of experience in semiconductor manufacturing, materials engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Experience working in global, multi-functional environments with varied partners.
  • Clear written and verbal communication skills, with a structured approach to problem solving.
  • Willingness to travel as needed to support global teams and initiatives.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree or PhD in Materials Science, Engineering, or a related discipline. 8 Plus Years Experience .
  • Exposure to NAND and/or DRAM manufacturing environments.
  • Experience in process or equipment engineering within semiconductor fabs.
  • Involvement in technology node ramps or highvolume manufacturing operations.
  • Interest or experience in deploying global standards, shared best practices, or continuous improvement efforts.

As a world leader in the semiconductor industry, Micron is dedicated to your personal wellbeing and professional growth. Micron benefits are designed to help you stay well, provide peace of mind and help you prepare for the future. We offer a choice of medical, dental and vision plans in all locations enabling team members to select the plans that best meet their family healthcare needs and budget. Micron also provides benefit programs that help protect your income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury, and paid family leave. Additionally, Micron benefits include a robust paid time-off program and paid holidays. For additional information regarding the Benefit programs available, please see the Benefits Guide posted on micron.com/careers/benefits.

Micron is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, citizenship status, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

To learn about your right to work click here.

To learn more about Micron, please visit micron.com/careers

For US Sites Only: To request assistance with the application process and/or for reasonable accommodations, please contact Micron's People Organization at hrsupport_na@micron.com or 1-800-336-8918 (select option #3)

Micron Prohibits the use of child labor and complies with all applicable laws, rules, regulations, and other international and industry labor standards.

Micron does not charge candidates any recruitment fees or unlawfully collect any other payment from candidates as consideration for their employment with Micron.

AI alert: Candidates are encouraged to use AI tools to enhance their resume and/or application materials. However, all information provided must be accurate and reflect the candidate's true skills and experiences. Misuse of AI to fabricate or misrepresent qualifications will result in immediate disqualification.

Fraud alert: Micron advises job seekers to be cautious of unsolicited job offers and to verify the authenticity of any communication claiming to be from Micron by checking the official Micron careers website in the About Micron Technology, Inc.

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