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

ARA

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $148K/yr

PhD in Mechanical Engineering with 3-5 years of relevant mechanical design experience. * Experience designing equipment for chemical processing, energetics, or hazardous material manufacturing ...

ARA

Staff Mechanical Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$105K - $123K/yr

PhD in Mechanical Engineering with 0-2 years of relevant mechanical design experience. * Experience designing equipment for chemical processing, energetics, or hazardous material manufacturing ...

New

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.

Ara

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120 - $148/hr

PhD in Mechanical Engineering with 3-5 years of relevant mechanical design experience. * Experience designing equipment for chemical processing, energetics, or hazardous material manufacturing ...

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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 Sep 5, 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 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 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 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,803 per year, or $50.4 per hour.

Senior Mechanical Engineer

ARA

Arlington, VA • On-site

$120K - $148K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Design mechanical equipment, components, and equipment-to-facility interfaces for chemical/energetic material manufacturing systems and unmanned systems hardware.

  • Develop 3D models and assemblies in SolidWorks and produce 2D drawings/layouts in AutoCAD, including manufacturing- and assembly-ready drawing packages with GD&T.

  • Support design reviews, technical interchange meetings, and site visits with government customers at Indian Head, MD.

Job description

ARA is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to support the design of equipment, tooling, and equipment interfaces for energetics chemical manufacturing systems and unmanned systems (UxS) programs supporting U.S. Government customers. This role spans a broad range of mechanical design applications, from process equipment and facility integration to mobile/field hardware platforms. The ideal candidate is an expert in SolidWorks and AutoCAD, capable of taking concepts through detailed design and producing release-quality drawings for manufacturing and assembly. The salary range is between $120K-$148K. This is a hybrid position with occasional travel to Arlington, VA and Indian Head, MD (15% travel).
Key Responsibilities
  • Design mechanical equipment, components, and equipment-to-facility interfaces for chemical/energetic material manufacturing systems and unmanned systems hardware.
  • Develop 3D models and assemblies in SolidWorks and produce 2D drawings/layouts in AutoCAD.
  • Create manufacturing- and assembly-ready drawing packages, including GD&T per ASME Y14.5.
  • Perform structural and mechanical analysis (FEA) to validate designs for strength, fatigue, and operational loading.
  • Manage CAD data and revisions through a PDM system (e.g., SolidWorks PDM/Vault).
  • Coordinate with chemical and process engineers to align equipment design with process requirements and DoD facility standards.
  • Support design reviews, technical interchange meetings, and site visits with government customers at Indian Head, MD.
  • Generally consider hazard classification, explosive safety, and facility siting requirements when designing equipment for energetic material applications.
  • Provide informal technical mentorship to junior engineers on design practices, drafting standards, and tools.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
  • 8 years of relevant mechanical design experience.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in SolidWorks (modeling, assemblies, drawings) and AutoCAD.
  • Strong working knowledge of GD&T (ASME Y14.5).
  • Experience with FEA/simulation tools for mechanical design validation.
  • Experience using a PDM system for CAD data management.
  • Ability to produce drawing packages suitable for manufacturing and assembly release.
  • U.S. Citizenship required; must be eligible to obtain a security clearance.
  • Willingness to travel regularly between Arlington, VA and Indian Head, MD.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Masters in Mechanical Engineering with 6-8 years of relevant mechanical design experience.
  • PhD in Mechanical Engineering with 3-5 years of relevant mechanical design experience.
  • Experience designing equipment for chemical processing, energetics, or hazardous material manufacturing environments.
  • Familiarity with DoD facility design standards (UFC) and explosive safety requirements.
  • Experience supporting unmanned systems (UxS) hardware design.
  • Prior experience interfacing directly with government program offices or customers.

Company & Division Information
Applied Research Associates, Inc. is an employee-owned international research and engineering company recognized for providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences. The company, founded in Albuquerque, NM, in 1979, currently employs over 2,240 professionals and continues to grow. ARA offices throughout the United States and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in defense technologies, civil technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement. The corporation also provides sophisticated technical products for environmental site characterization, pavement analysis, and robotics.
At ARA, employees are our greatest assets. The corporation realizes that employee ownership spawns greater creativity and initiative along with higher performance and customer satisfaction levels. ARA gives employees the tools, training, and opportunities to take more active roles as owners. The culture is challenging and innovation and experimentation are the norm. Employees are eligible for contributions which not only add to the company's success, but also their own through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The motto, "Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit" sums up the ARA experience. We invite you to visit our website to learn more about who we are, what we do, the excellent careers and benefits we offer and explore some of our featured offices.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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