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Materials Engineer Phd Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

General Atomics

Mechanical Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

... 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 Corp

Quantum Engineer SME

Springfield, VA · On-site

$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 ...

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 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 ...

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Materials Engineer Phd information

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$43K

$114.1K

$179K

How much do materials engineer phd jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for materials engineer phd in Washington is $114,095.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,600.00 and $131,900.00 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 Washington?

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

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

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

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

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

Materials Engineer Phd jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Engineer Phd job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,095 per year, or $54.9 per hour.

Staff Materials Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Annapolis, MD • On-site

$169K - $253K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 368 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 545 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: NoCLEARANCE TYPE: Top SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Join Northrop Grumman on our continued mission to push the boundaries of possible across land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace. Enjoy a culture where your voice is valued and start contributing to our team of passionate professionals providing real-life solutions to our world's biggest challenges. We take pride in creating purposeful work and allowing our employees to grow and achieve their goals every day by Defining Possible. With our competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, we have the right opportunities to fit your life and launch your career today.

The Naval & Oceanic Systems business unit headquartered in Annapolis, MD is seeking dependable individuals willing to work in a collaborative environment and that are interested in expanding their horizons.The Mechanical Engineering Department is seeking a Staff Materials Engineer with a background in subsea corrosion mitigation.

Essential Functions:

Apply chemistry, physics and materialsscience principles to diagnose material problems and devise solutions, while implementing corrosionmitigation strategies for complex systems. He/she researches and evaluates materials and their processing methods to support engineering designs, collaborates with teammates to conduct thorough technical reviews of drawings, specifications and manufacturing plans, and delivers proactive, highquality customer service by continually sourcing and sharing relevant information. In addition, the role oversees test activities and testarticle fabrication, documents results, and liaises with senior customer personnel on critical technical issues, often coordinating efforts across organizational boundaries.

The candidate must be able to collaborate in a team environment, lead teams, prioritize and adjust tasks to accomplish the project result, prioritize multiple responsibilities and/or accomplishing them simultaneously, and comprehend and analyze complex problems and develop solutions. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are required.

Basic Qualifications for Staff Materials Engineer:

  • Bachelor's degree in STEM with 12 years of experience; OR a Master's Degree in STEM with 10 years of experience; OR a PhD in STEM with 8 years of experience.

  • Basic understanding of the processes that produce corrosion (uniform, galvanic, crevice, etc) and the strategies that mitigate it.

  • Practical understanding of additive manufacturing modalities and alloys.

  • Basic knowledge of metallurgical practices (e.g., weld, metallurgy, metallographic evaluation, heat treatments, fracture mechanics, corrosion control, and failure analysis).

  • Basic knowledge of coating types and coating application methods used to prolong life of marine systems.

  • Basic understanding of principles related to cathodic protection.

  • US Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Familiarity with Navy / DoD processes and workflow.

  • Detailed knowledge of coating types and coating application methods used to prolong life of marine systems.

  • Familiarity with the properties of and design considerations pertaining to non-metallic materials such as urethanes, adhesives, and composites.

  • Detailed knowledge of principles related to cathodic protection and ability to specify cathodes of subsea systems.

  • Active Top Secret/SCI clearance.

NGFeaturedJobs

Primary Level Salary Range: $169,000.00 - $253,600.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939

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