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Materials Engineer Phd Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Guidehouse

Technical SETA SME

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$115K - $172K/yr

... Material Engineering (PIE), Research Physicists (PHY), Research Scientists (SCI), Software ... PhD in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics field with TWO (2) or more years of ...

Guidehouse

Technical SETA SME

Bethesda, MD · Hybrid

$115K - $172K/yr

... Material Engineering (PIE), Research Physicists (PHY), Research Scientists (SCI), Software ... PhD in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics field with TWO (2) or more years of ...

ADNET Systems, Inc.

Microfabrication Engineer

Greenbelt, MD · On-site

$95K - $145K/hr

... Materials Science, Physics, or a related technical discipline. * Minimum 3 years of demonstrated ... Master's or PhD in a relevant engineering or scientific discipline. * Experience working in Class ...

SAIC

Hypersonics System Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... PhD or JD and four (4) years or more experience. * Experience in hypersonics and advanced materials ...

SAIC

Space Protection Operations Engineer

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$78K - $106K/yr

... materials. • Evaluates developer solutions, guides software deployment activities, and assesses ... PhD and 4 or more years of experience. Extensive experience may be considered in lieu of degree ...

SAIC

Hypersonics System Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

PhD or JD and four (4) years or more experience. * Experience in hypersonics and advanced materials ... ing services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely ...

Trans-Tech

RF Applications Engineer

Adamstown, MD · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

We supply advanced materials, circulators and isolators, ferrites and magnetic materials ... Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent work experience.

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsMaterials Engineer Phd JobsMaterials Engineer Phd Jobs in Reston, VA

Materials Engineer Phd information

See Reston, VA salary details

$39.5K

$104.8K

$164.4K

How much do materials engineer phd jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for materials engineer phd in Reston, VA is $104,803.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,200.00 and $121,200.00 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 are popular job titles related to Materials Engineer Phd jobs in Reston, VA? For Materials Engineer Phd jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Materials Engineer Phd jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Materials Engineer Phd jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Materials Engineer Phd jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Materials Engineer Phd job openings:
Materials Engineer Phd jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Engineer Phd job openings in Reston, VA 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 $104,803 per year, or $50.4 per hour.

Technical SETA SME

Guidehouse

Bethesda, MD • On-site

$115K - $172K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago

Guidehouse rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 72 rated business consultants

Job description

Job Family:
Communications Engineering (COE), Data Science & Analysis (ESA), Electrical Engineering (ELE), IT Architecture/Cloud (ESA), Mechanical Engineering (MCE), Modeling & Simulation Engineering (MSE), Production, Industrial, Material Engineering (MAE), Production, Industrial, Material Engineering (PIE), Research Physicists (PHY), Research Scientists (SCI), Software Engineering (SWE), Specialized Engineering (CHE), Subject Matter Experts - Professional (SMP), Subject Matter Experts - Technical (SMT), Systems Engineering (SYE)
Travel Required:
Up to 10%
Clearance Required:
Active Top Secret SCI with Polygraph
What You Will Do:
A Technical SETA provides independent, objective systems engineering and technical expertise to government program offices, ensuring programs are planned, designed, and executed effectively. This role supports the government as a trusted advisor rather than a contractor developing deliverables, focusing on technical rigor, acquisition support, and mission alignment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Provide unbiased systems engineering expertise across the full system lifecycle, including concept development, architecture design, integration, testing, deployment, and sustainment.
  • Review, analyze, and validate contractor technical deliverables, ensuring compliance with requirements, standards, and mission needs.
  • Support requirements development and management, including traceability, verification methods, and acceptance criteria.
  • Assist with program planning, acquisition strategies, risk management, scheduling, and technical baseline reviews.
  • Develop and evaluate technical documentation such as interface control documents, system specifications, test plans, and engineering analyses.
  • Support readiness assessments, design reviews, technical interchange meetings, and decision gates.
  • Identify risks, issues, and opportunities and provide recommendations to government leadership.
  • Conduct independent research, trade studies, and market assessments to inform program decisions.
  • Ensure technical alignment with enterprise architectures, security policies, and cross-program integrations.
  • Facilitate communication among stakeholders, including government customers, contractors, and mission partners.

Guidehouse is currently looking for experts with experience in one or more of the following for these Technical SETA SME roles:
  • Waveform & RF Communications
  • Wireless Communications Systems
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning (ML)
  • Modeling & Simulation (M&S)
  • Quantum Computing
  • Advanced Platforms & Systems Integration
  • Computer Vision & Sensing Technologies
  • Microelectronics & Next-Gen Hardware

These roles require 5-days a week on client site in Bethesda, MD.
What You Will Need:
  • An ACTIVE and MAINTAINED TS/SCI Federal or DoD security clearance with a polygraph
  • Bachelor's in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics field with EIGTH (8) or more years of experience in related field
  • Master's in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics field with FOUR (4) or more years of experience in related field
  • PhD in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics field with TWO (2) or more years of experience in related field

What Would Be Nice To Have:
  • ONE (1) year of experience in the Intelligence Community (IC), including experience with requirements, CONOPS, and transition
  • Excellent writing/editing skills
  • Excellent slide development/PowerPoint skills
  • Strong organizational, problem-solving, and time management skills
  • Ability to manage multiple concurrent tasks

The annual salary range for this position is $115,200.00-$172,800.00. Compensation decisions depend on a wide range of factors, including but not limited to skill sets, experience and training, security clearances, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs.
What We Offer:
Guidehouse offers a comprehensive, total rewards package that includes competitive compensation and a flexible benefits package that reflects our commitment to creating a diverse and supportive workplace.
Benefits include:
  • Medical, Rx, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Personal and Family Sick Time & Company Paid Holidays
  • Position may be eligible for a discretionary variable incentive bonus
  • Parental Leave and Adoption Assistance
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Basic Life & Supplemental Life
  • Health Savings Account, Dental/Vision & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Student Loan PayDown
  • Tuition Reimbursement, Personal Development & Learning Opportunities
  • Skills Development & Certifications
  • Employee Referral Program
  • Corporate Sponsored Events & Community Outreach
  • Emergency Back-Up Childcare Program
  • Mobility Stipend

About Guidehouse
Guidehouse is an Equal Opportunity Employer-Protected Veterans, Individuals with Disabilities or any other basis protected by law, ordinance, or regulation.
Guidehouse will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law or ordinance including the Fair Chance Ordinance of Los Angeles and San Francisco.
If you have visited our website for information about employment opportunities, or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation, please contact Guidehouse Recruiting at 1-571-633-1711 or via email at RecruitingAccommodation@guidehouse.com. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodation.
All communication regarding recruitment for a Guidehouse position will be sent from Guidehouse email domains including @guidehouse.com or guidehouse@myworkday.com. Correspondence received by an applicant from any other domain should be considered unauthorized and will not be honored by Guidehouse. Note that Guidehouse will never charge a fee or require a money transfer at any stage of the recruitment process and does not collect fees from educational institutions for participation in a recruitment event. Never provide your banking information to a third party purporting to need that information to proceed in the hiring process.
If any person or organization demands money related to a job opportunity with Guidehouse, please report the matter to Guidehouse's Ethics Hotline. If you want to check the validity of correspondence you have received, please contact recruiting@guidehouse.com. Guidehouse is not responsible for losses incurred (monetary or otherwise) from an applicant's dealings with unauthorized third parties.
Guidehouse does not accept unsolicited resumes through or from search firms or staffing agencies. All unsolicited resumes will be considered the property of Guidehouse and Guidehouse will not be obligated to pay a placement fee.

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