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Materials Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Motive Companies

Materials Engineer

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$38 - $55/hr

Materials Engineer Location: Santa Clarita, CA Pay Rate: $38.00 - $55.00 per hour Industry: Motorsports / High-Performance Engineering A leading motorsports and high-performance engineering company ...

Motive Companies

Materials Engineer

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$38 - $55/hr

Materials Engineer Location: Santa Clarita, CA Pay Rate: $38.00 - $55.00 per hour Industry: Motorsports / High-Performance Engineering A leading motorsports and high-performance engineering company ...

Mariana Minerals

Materials Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Role Overview Mariana Minerals is seeking a highly motivated Materials Engineer to join our R&D and product development team. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing, developing ...

Neuralink

Materials Engineer

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Materials Engineering Team at Neuralink develops and qualifies high-performance, biocompatible materials for next-generation brain-computer interfaces. The team owns material characterization ...

Amat

Materials Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$147K - $202K/yr

Who We Are Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting ...

nudge

Materials Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

About the role As a Materials Engineer at Nudge, you will: * Design materials and fabrication methods for in-house ultrasound array fabrication * Design high efficiency elements for transmission ...

Neuralink

Materials Engineer

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

$113K - $209K/yr

The Materials Engineering Team at Neuralink develops and qualifies high-performance, biocompatible materials for next-generation brain-computer interfaces. The team owns material characterization ...

Chipton Ross

Materials Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$38/hr

Job #219269 Chipton-Ross is seeking a Materials Engineer for a contract opportunity in Santa Rosa, CA. BASIC QUALIFICATIONS (REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE) * Degree in Material Sciences, Chemical ...

Joby Aviation

Materials Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$86K - $137K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation is seeking a materials engineer to join our Additive Manufacturing team. You will own the full material lifecycle for AM metallic components-feedstock qualification through ...

Neuralink

Materials Engineer

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

$113K - $209K/yr

The Materials Engineering Team at Neuralink develops and qualifies high-performance, biocompatible materials for next-generation brain-computer interfaces. The team owns material characterization ...

Joby Aviation

Materials Engineer

Marina, CA

$86K - $137K/yr

Joby Aviation is seeking a materials engineer to join our Additive Manufacturing team. You will own the full material lifecycle for AM metallic components--feedstock qualification through post ...

Joby Aviation

Materials Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$86K - $137K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation is seeking a materials engineer to join our Additive Manufacturing team. You will own the full material lifecycle for AM metallic components-feedstock qualification through ...

Antares

Materials Engineer, Ceramics

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$115K - $150K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, Materials Engineering or a related physics-based field. * 2+ years of experience in materials science and engineering. * Proficiency ...

Antares

Materials Engineer, Ceramics

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$115K - $185K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, Materials Engineering or a related physics-based field. * 2+ years of experience in materials science and engineering. * Proficiency ...

SpaceX

Materials Engineer, Metals (Starship)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

MATERIALS ENGINEER, METALS (STARSHIP) Our Starship Materials Engineering team is serving as experts in various material disciplines to the broader company and working on making the best rockets and ...

SpaceX

Materials Engineer, Metals (Starship)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

MATERIALS ENGINEER, METALS (STARSHIP) Our Starship Materials Engineering team is serving as experts in various material disciplines to the broader company and working on making the best rockets and ...

SpaceX

Materials Engineer, Metals (Starship)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

MATERIALS ENGINEER, METALS (STARSHIP) Our Starship Materials Engineering team is serving as experts in various material disciplines to the broader company and working on making the best rockets and ...

Raytheon

Materials Engineer II

San Jose, CA · On-site

The Materials and Process Engineering Department, which functions within Hardware Engineering, is looking for a Materials Engineer to join our Advanced Materials Section in Tucson, AZ. A qualified ...

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All JobsMaterials Engineer JobsMaterials Engineer Jobs in California

Materials Engineer information

See California salary details

$37.5K

$99.4K

$155.9K

How much do materials engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for materials engineer in California is $99,419.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a materials engineer?

Materials engineers are professionals who study, develop, and test materials used to create a wide range of products, from computer chips to aircraft components. They work with metals, ceramics, plastics, composites, and other substances to improve their properties and performance. Their work often involves selecting appropriate materials for specific applications, researching new materials, and troubleshooting issues related to material failures. Materials engineers play a critical role in advancing technologies in industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and biomedical engineering.

What does a materials engineer do?

As a materials engineer, you develop, test, and process new materials. You may create new types of plastic, metal, or ceramic materials for use in various applications. You work with nanomaterials and other unusual substances to create products that meet specific chemical, electrical, or mechanical requirements. Depending on the company's needs and the status of a material's development, you typically work in a laboratory or an office setting. Many potential materials are modeled on computers before attempting manufacture, so familiarity with design software is paramount.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a materials engineer?

To thrive as a Materials Engineer, you need a solid understanding of materials science, engineering principles, and typically a bachelor's degree in materials, chemical, or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with analytical tools like scanning electron microscopes (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and computer-aided design (CAD) software is often required. Effective problem-solving, project management, and strong communication skills help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and present findings clearly. These abilities are essential for developing innovative materials and ensuring product reliability and performance in various industries.

What are some common challenges materials engineers face when working on cross-functional project teams?

Materials Engineers often collaborate with professionals from design, manufacturing, and quality assurance departments. One common challenge is effectively communicating complex materials science concepts to team members without a technical background. Additionally, balancing the ideal material properties with project cost, manufacturability, and timeline constraints requires strong problem-solving and negotiation skills. Overcoming these challenges typically involves active participation in team meetings, clear documentation, and a willingness to adapt solutions based on feedback from various stakeholders.

What is the difference between Materials Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectMaterials EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Materials Science, Metallurgy, or related field; often includes certifications like ASM certificationsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; PE license may be preferred
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing plants, quality controlDesign offices, manufacturing facilities, testing labs
Industry UsageMaterials development, failure analysis, quality assuranceProduct design, systems, and machinery development

Materials Engineers focus on developing and testing materials used in products, while Mechanical Engineers design and analyze mechanical systems. Both roles often collaborate but serve different core functions within manufacturing and product development industries.

Is it hard to get a job as a materials engineer?

Getting a job as a materials engineer can be competitive, especially without relevant experience or advanced degrees. Strong skills in materials analysis, proficiency with engineering software, and professional certifications can improve employment prospects. Entry-level positions may be easier to obtain with internships or co-op experience.
More about Materials Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Materials Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Materials Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Materials Engineer jobs in California?

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Materials Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Materials Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Materials Engineer jobs in CA?

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

Materials Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $99,419 per year, or $47.8 per hour.

Materials Engineer

Motive Companies

Santa Clarita, CA • On-site

$38 - $55/hr

Contractor

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Materials Engineer

Location: Santa Clarita, CA
Pay Rate: $38.00 - $55.00 per hour
Industry: Motorsports / High-Performance Engineering

A leading motorsports and high-performance engineering company is seeking a Materials Engineer to join its team in Santa Clarita, CA. This is an exciting opportunity for an engineering professional who is passionate about advanced materials, metallurgical analysis, and high-performance automotive applications. The successful candidate will support the development, testing, and evaluation of materials used in cutting-edge racing and performance engine programs.

Position Summary
The Materials Engineer will be responsible for material specification development, laboratory testing, failure analysis investigations, and manufacturing support. This role requires a hands-on professional who can work independently while collaborating with engineering and production teams to ensure the highest standards of performance, reliability, and quality.
Key Responsibilities
  • Develop and maintain raw material specifications and support material qualification activities.
  • Provide manufacturing and engineering support by identifying material and process requirements.
  • Generate data for engineering design, analysis, validation, and qualification of advanced materials and processes.
  • Perform laboratory testing and metallurgical analysis on engine and vehicle components.
  • Prepare metallurgical specimens for failure analysis, including cutting, mounting, grinding, polishing, and etching.
  • Conduct microscopic and macroscopic examinations of metallic and non-metallic materials.
  • Analyze test results and prepare detailed reports outlining findings, conclusions, and corrective actions.
  • Support root cause investigations of failed components and recommend solutions.
  • Maintain laboratory equipment and analytical instruments to ensure accuracy and reliability.
  • Collaborate with engineering teams on high-performance automotive development projects.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Metallurgical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related scientific or engineering discipline.
  • Minimum of 2-3 years of Materials Engineering experience.
  • Strong understanding of material specifications, metallurgy, and material testing procedures.
  • Experience conducting laboratory testing, failure analysis, and technical investigations.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, technical specifications, and industry standards.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience supporting motorsports, automotive, aerospace, or high-performance manufacturing environments.
  • Hands-on experience with internal combustion race engines and related mechanical or electronic systems.
  • Knowledge of advanced engineering materials and manufacturing processes.
  • Experience working with laboratory equipment and metallurgical testing techniques.
Physical & Working Requirements
  • Ability to safely operate laboratory equipment and analytical instruments.
  • Willingness to learn proper handling procedures for chemicals and corrosive substances.
  • Ability to recognize workplace hazards and follow all safety policies and procedures.
  • Ability to lift and carry materials or components weighing up to 20 pounds.
  • Ability to manually operate laboratory equipment and testing devices.
  • Ability to work with microscopes and perform detailed visual inspections for extended periods.
  • Comfortable working in a collaborative, team-oriented environment.

What We're Looking For
  • A detail-oriented engineer with a passion for high-performance technology and continuous improvement.
  • Someone who can work independently with minimal supervision while contributing effectively to team objectives.
  • A proactive problem solver who takes ownership of projects and drives issues to resolution.
  • An individual committed to quality, safety, and technical excellence.

Apply today to join a world-class motorsports engineering team and contribute to the development of cutting-edge performance technologies.

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Education:Employment Type: CONTRACTOR

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