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Materials Engineer Phd Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

STEM Boomerang

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Rio Rancho, NM · On-site

$140 - $210/hr

Bachelor's or advanced degree in aerospace engineering, manufacturing engineering, materials ... Hold a Masters degree or PhD in a technical discipline such as mechanical or aerospace engineering.

New

General Atomics

Chemical Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Conduct hydraulic calculations, heat and material balances, and pressure relief sizing ... Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical ...

AeroVironment

Optical Communication Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$125K - $161K/yr

Master's or PhD in Engineering, Optics, Photonics, Materials Science, or a closely related field * 5+ years of previous experience with fiberoptic and laserbased systems for optical communications ...

New

Nova Ltd.

Application Engineer

Rio Rancho, NM · On-site

Master Degree or PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Material Science or relevant field. * Experience in metrology, optics, semiconductors, or sensor technology is a plus. * 2-3 years of ...

University of New Mexico

Open Rank

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

... and PhD in engineering). The Department is housed in the Centennial Engineering Center, which ... Wood Chair for Advanced Construction Materials and Technologies, and the Associated General ...

University of New Mexico

Open Rank

Albuquerque, NM

... and PhD in engineering). The Department is housed in the Centennial Engineering Center, which ... Wood Chair for Advanced Construction Materials and Technologies, and the Associated General ...

Nova Ltd.

Application Engineer

Rio Rancho, NM · On-site

Master Degree or PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Material Science or relevant field. * Experience in metrology, optics, semiconductors, or sensor technology is a plus. * 2-3 years of ...

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All JobsMaterials Engineer Phd JobsMaterials Engineer Phd Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Materials Engineer Phd information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$35.7K

$94.8K

$148.6K

How much do materials engineer phd jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for materials engineer phd in Rio Rancho, NM is $94,755.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,200.00 and $109,600.00 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 Rio Rancho, NM?

For Materials Engineer Phd jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Materials Engineer Phd jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for?

The top searched job categories for Materials Engineer Phd jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:

What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Materials Engineer Phd jobs?

Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Materials Engineer Phd job openings:

Materials Engineer Phd jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Engineer Phd job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,856 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

Senior Propulsion Engineer

STEM Boomerang

Rio Rancho, NM • On-site

$140 - $210/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Rio Rancho, United States

About the Role

The Senior Propulsion Engineer's primary responsibility is the design of solid rocket motor primary and secondary structures, along with propulsion components, with an emphasis on schedule, affordability and scale.

Requirements

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor's or advanced degree in aerospace engineering, manufacturing engineering, materials engineering, mechanical engineering or physics.
  • 5+ years of mechanical or fluids design, analysis, or build experience (student project team, university rocketry club and internship experience counts).
  • Effective communication skills are crucial for collaborating with cross-functional teams, presenting design concepts, and documenting work.

Preferred Skills and Experience

  • Proficient in test methods/setups, with the ability to conduct trade studies using engineering fundamentals to make informed recommendations, even with limited information.
  • Extensive experience working with aerospace materials (including metals, plastics, and composites) and a solid understanding of spacecraft and/or launch vehicle propulsion systems and fluid components.
  • Skilled in CAD software (NX 8.5 or similar packages like PTC Creo, CATIA) with expertise in geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) per ASME Y14.5-1994.
  • Relevant experience with rocket motors, solid propulsion elements, and structural interfaces, including knowledge of insensitive munitions protocols and practices.
  • Hold a Masters degree or PhD in a technical discipline such as mechanical or aerospace engineering.
  • Hands-on experience supporting rapid product development, including designing hardware for high-rate production in alternative non-aerospace domains.
  • Currently hold an active DoD Secret Security Clearance or higher.

Additional Requirements

  • Willing and able to work extended hours and/or weekends with minimal notification to meet critical deadlines leading up to major milestones.
  • Able to travel up to 30% on an ongoing basis
  • Employee Equity: Meaningful equity forall full-time employees - share value has increased 150x in three years
  • Personal Time Off: Four (4) weeks of paidtime off to unplug, reset, and come back sharp-v velocity matters,burnout doesn't
  • Medical: We offer plans at 100% employeecovered and 80% of dependent coverage
  • Dental & Vision: We cover 90%employees and 80% for dependents to ensure you and your family haveaccess to quality preventive and ongoing care
  • FSA/HSA: To support long-term health andfinancial resilience, we offer FSA and HSA options that allowemployees to set aside pre-tax dollars for eligible medical anddependent care expenses
  • Retirement: 401k plan offered to supportlong term financial growth along side high-impact, high-velocity work
  • Paid Parental Leave: We support growingfamilies with meaningful time to bond and recover. Birthing parentsare eligible for up to 10 weeks of paid leave, while non-birthingparents may take up to 4 weeks of paid leave. This time can be usedfor pre-natal care, pregnancy, childbirth, and related medicalneeds- ensuring every parent has the support they need during thisimportant life moment.8-weeks of paid parental leave for allparents. Additional paid pregnancy leave for CA employees
  • Meals & Catering: Frequently cateredlunches and team meals, plus company-covered meals when extra timeor effort is required
  • Snacks & Beverages: Fully stockedkitchen with unlimited snacks and drinks to keep you fueledthroughout the day
  • Performance & Fitness: $100 monthlyfitness stipend to support peak performance and health, both insideand outside of work
  • EV Charging: Onsite electric vehiclecharging available for employees
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