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Materials Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

X Energy LLC

Lead, Materials Engineering

Rockville, MD · On-site

$104K - $137K/yr

This role provides managerial support and technical leadership to engineers responsible for performing tasks associated with selecting, qualifying, and conducting lifetime analysis for materials in a ...

X Energy LLC

Lead, Materials Engineering

Rockville, MD · On-site

$104K - $137K/yr

This role provides managerial support and technical leadership to engineers responsible for performing tasks associated with selecting, qualifying, and conducting lifetime analysis for materials in a ...

Applied Materials

Process Support Engineer II

Manassas, VA · On-site

$86K - $119K/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 ...

M&J Engineering

Materials Inspector

Fairfax, VA

M&J Engineering, D.P.C. is a quality provider of multi-discipline consulting services with over 300 ... M&J is seeking Materials Inspectors to perform field sampling and testing of construction materials ...

M&J Engineering

Materials Inspector

Fairfax, VA · On-site

Overview M&J Engineering, D.P.C. is a quality provider of multi-discipline consulting services with ... M&J is seeking Materials Inspectors to perform field sampling and testing of construction materials ...

M&J Engineering

Materials Inspector

Fairfax, VA · On-site

Overview M&J Engineering, D.P.C. is a quality provider of multi-discipline consulting services with ... M&J is seeking Materials Inspectors to perform field sampling and testing of construction materials ...

M&J Engineering

Materials Inspector

Washington, DC

M&J Engineering, D.P.C. is a quality provider of multi-discipline consulting services with over 300 ... M&J is seeking a Materials Inspector to perform field sampling and testing of soils, aggregates ...

M&J Engineering

Materials Inspector

Washington, DC · On-site

Overview M&J Engineering, D.P.C. is a quality provider of multi-discipline consulting services with ... M&J is seeking a Materials Inspector to perform field sampling and testing of soils, aggregates ...

M&J Engineering

Materials Inspector

Washington, DC · On-site

Overview M&J Engineering, D.P.C. is a quality provider of multi-discipline consulting services with ... M&J is seeking a Materials Inspector to perform field sampling and testing of soils, aggregates ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsMaterials Engineer JobsMaterials Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Materials Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$39.5K

$104.8K

$164.4K

How much do materials engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for materials engineer 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 the Job of a Materials Engineer?

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 materials engineers?

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 engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, and certain senior roles in software or data engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior materials engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or working in high-demand industries like aerospace or oil and gas, can earn $200,000 or more annually. Achieving this level often requires specialized skills, leadership roles, and working in regions with high cost of living or competitive markets.

What jobs can materials engineers do?

Materials engineers design, develop, and test materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites for use in products and structures. They work in industries like aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, and electronics, often using tools like computer-aided design (CAD) and conducting laboratory testing. Their roles may include research, quality control, and process improvement, requiring knowledge of material properties and engineering principles.

What is the work of a Materials Engineer?

A Materials Engineer researches, develops, and tests materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites to improve their performance and suitability for specific applications. They analyze material properties, design new materials, and work with manufacturing processes, often using tools like microscopes and testing equipment to ensure quality and safety.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Materials Engineer, and why are they important?

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 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.

More about Materials Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Materials Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Materials Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Materials Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? For Materials Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Materials Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Materials Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Materials Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Materials Engineer job openings:
Materials Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $104,803 per year, or $50.4 per hour.
ElectronicsParts,Materials, andProcessesEngineer - Advanced Packaging

ElectronicsParts,Materials, andProcessesEngineer - Advanced Packaging

The Aerospace Corporation

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

At the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country's space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration. With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results. We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions. Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD!

The Parts, Materials & Processes Department (PMPD) includes subject matter experts across a broad range of areas pertaining to electrical, electronic, and electromechanical (EEE) parts procurement, qualification, application, root cause failure analysis, as well as materials and processes. Our expertise combined with a sophisticated in-house electronic component laboratory deliver innovative analysis and PM&P program management capabilities to national space systems and civil customers.

PMPD is seekinganElectronicsParts,Materials, andProcessesEngineer - Advanced Packaging(Engineering Specialist - Microelectronics / Semiconductor Engineering) withproficiencyinpackaging, assembly, and testing, related procurement standards,relatedcontrol boards for program management and adjudication of nonconformities.

This position is based in El Segundo, CA and requires a minimum offourdaysper week in office.

What You'll Be Doing

  • Supporting parts, materials, and processes (PM&P) program management functions which include- PM&Pselectioncommensuratewith application risk tolerance,control boards, design reviews, and manufacturing readiness reviews

  • Provide ongoing technical consultation and advice to management, internal/external customers, and contractors on the evaluation,selection, and use of advanced semiconductor packaging(e.g., 2.5/3D,system in package, multi-chipmodule)for spaceand missileapplications

  • May lead cross-organizational teams and organize interfaces within department

  • Collaborate with industry colleagues, andcomponentsupplier personnel to create/maintainguidance and requirements related to selection, screening, qualification,and root causefailure analysis

  • Act as organization's designated representative at technical meetings, presentation, and workshops

  • Mentor less experienced staff - as required - and serve as role model

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited university in materials science, electrical engineering, physics, or another appropriate discipline

  • At least eight years of increasingly responsible and related engineering/scientific experience (time spent obtaining advanced degree counts towards this).

  • Proficiencyin industry PMP requirements standardsdevelopmentforadvancedsemiconductor packaging- including related, component selection, assembly materials, and processes (PMP), and selection of elements

  • Experience supporting parts, materials, and processes (PM&P) program management functions which include -- control boards, design reviews, and manufacturing readiness reviews

  • Excellent record of customer communication and interaction

  • Willingness to travel [domestically/internationally] approx. 25% of time

  • This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SSBI security clearance, which is issued by the US government. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

  • Advanced degree from an accredited university in materials science, electrical engineering, physics, or another appropriate discipline

  • 8+ years of experience in advanced semiconductor packaging(time spent obtaining advanced degree counts towards this).

  • Experience leading/managing teams to evaluate, select, and qualify electronic parts, materials, and processes (PMP) for space-related applications while balancing risks

  • Demonstrated ability to assess non-MIL PRF parts and develop appropriate methods for use in space and related high-reliability applications

  • Hold an active TS/SSBI security clearance

  • Proficiency in common root cause analysis tools during problem resolution

  • Experience collaborating with contractors, industry working groups, and/or associations such as NASA Electronics Parts Assurance Group, Defense Logistics Agency, Joint Electron Device Engineering Council, Automotive Electronics Council, during the evaluation, selection, and adaptation of active electronic parts for space-related applications]

  • Possess project management skills in applications such as MS Project,Jira, etc.

We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.

(Min - Max)

$117,300.00 - $175,900.00 Pay Basis: Annual

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

  • Operate Strategically
  • Lead Change
  • Engage with Impact
  • Foster Innovation
  • Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:

  • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

  • Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

  • Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

  • 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

  • Flexible spending accounts

  • Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

  • Relocation assistance

  • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

  • Education assistance programs

  • An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an equalopportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color,religion,geneticinformation, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by emailat peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org .You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.

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