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Materials Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Panasonic

Manager, Materials Engineering

Sparks, NV · On-site

Responsibilities Manager, Materials Engineering (by clicking this link you are being referred to an external site that is not part of Panasonic) Meet the Recruiter: Princess Damato Job Summary:

Form Energy

Manager, Materials Engineering

Somerville, MA · On-site

$170K - $212K/yr

Role Description Form Energy is hiring a Manager of Materials Engineering to build and lead a team responsible for the design, specification, validation, and scale-up of our core cathode materials.

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How much do materials engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for materials engineering in the United States is $26.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $32.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is materials engineering?

Materials engineering is a branch of engineering focused on the discovery, design, and development of new materials, as well as improving existing materials for various applications. Materials engineers study the properties and structures of metals, ceramics, polymers, composites, and other substances to understand how they can be used or enhanced. Their work is essential in industries such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, construction, and healthcare, where selecting the right material can impact performance, safety, and cost. Materials engineers often collaborate with other engineers and scientists to solve complex problems and create innovative products.

What are some common challenges materials engineers face when working on new product development projects?

Materials engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing cost, performance, and manufacturability when selecting or designing materials for new products. They must work closely with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure that chosen materials meet all technical and regulatory requirements without exceeding budget constraints. Additionally, materials engineers need to stay updated on emerging technologies and standards, which can make decision-making more complex but also rewarding as it drives innovation and professional growth.

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 strong background in materials science, chemistry, and physics, usually supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in materials engineering or a related field. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) tools, materials characterization instruments, and industry-specific certifications (such as EIT or PE) is often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you excel when collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and presenting findings. These skills are essential for developing innovative materials, ensuring product quality, and supporting the advancement of technology in various industries.

What is the difference between Materials Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectMaterials EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Materials Science or Engineering, possibly a master'sBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, possibly a master's
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing plants, R&D centersDesign offices, manufacturing facilities, testing labs
Industry UsageMaterials development, failure analysis, quality controlProduct design, thermodynamics, mechanical systems

Materials Engineering focuses on developing and testing materials used in various industries, while Mechanical Engineering emphasizes designing and analyzing mechanical systems. Both fields share similar credentials and often work in overlapping environments, but their core focuses differ significantly.

Is there a demand for materials engineers?

Materials engineering is a growing field with steady demand in industries such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, and energy. Materials engineers are needed to develop new materials, improve manufacturing processes, and ensure product quality, often requiring knowledge of CAD software and materials testing techniques. Job prospects are strong for those with specialized skills and relevant certifications.

What does a materials engineer do?

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, use tools like microscopes and testing equipment, and often work in laboratories or manufacturing environments to innovate and solve material-related problems.

What jobs can I get with a materials engineering degree?

Materials engineering graduates can pursue roles such as materials engineer, quality control engineer, process engineer, or research scientist. These positions often involve working with metals, polymers, ceramics, or composites in manufacturing, research labs, or development environments, and may require knowledge of testing methods and materials properties.
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What states have the most Materials Engineering jobs?

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What are popular job titles related to Materials Engineering jobs?

For Materials Engineering jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Materials Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Engineering job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% 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 $55,567 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Materials Engineer I - Materials Engineering

Waterloo, IA • On-site

Three Point Solutions, Inc.
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Three Point Solutions, Inc.external

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Materials Engineer I - Materials Engineering
Client: Heavy Machine Manufacturing Industry
Duration: 2 years
Location: Waterloo, IA 50704
Description:
Materials Engineer I - Materials Engineering
Major Purpose
Assists and supports materials engineering work that is narrow in scope and responsibility. This job fully integrates an individual into the engineering culture by performing professional materials engineering (e.g., chemicals, plastics, finishes, metallurgy, heat treat, ceramics, etc.) assignments and specific engineering tasks that are limited in scope, depth, and degree of skill required. Work plans and decisions are reviewed by supervisors.
Major Duties
  • Carry out a range of activities under the guidance of more senior colleagues to support the analysis of information and the specification of the methods and process steps, as well as the plant, machinery, and equipment, required to design and continuously improve manufacturing or materials processes and process systems.
  • Contribute to the development of, and implement feasibility testing of, proposed engineering solutions to provide feedback and data to validate the design.
  • Support drafting of engineering standards and specifications and evaluate the effectiveness of those standards.
  • Carry out inspections under the supervision of senior colleagues to evaluate the quality of engineering works and/or the integrity of existing installations or structures, and make recommendations to senior colleagues on the remedial works needed to ensure conformance with specifications and regulatory requirements.
  • Coordinate subcontractors and suppliers, acting as the primary contact within an established contract management plan.
  • Identify shortcomings in existing processes and systems and use established change management programs to address them.
  • Help others get the most out of knowledge management systems by offering support and advice.
  • Conduct a range of product development and engineering activities. Analyze customer needs and define/deliver products.
  • Work within an established project management plan to achieve specific goals.
  • Participate in assessment and development planning activities, engage in formal and informal training, and maintain an understanding of relevant technology, external regulations, and industry best practices.

Skills, Abilities, Knowledge
  • Engineering Technology
  • Engineering Design
  • Engineering Development
  • Business Requirements Analysis
  • Engineering Specification
  • Engineering Testing
  • Project Schedule Management
  • Engineering Build
  • Engineering Implementation
  • Engineering Technical Operations Support
  • Health and Safety
  • Negotiation
  • Policy and Regulation
  • Review and Reporting
  • Risk Management
  • Contract Management
  • Costing and Budgeting
  • Graphics or Photo Imaging
  • Word Processor Software
  • Presentation Creation
  • Spreadsheet Expertise
  • Database User Interfaces and Queries
  • Development Environment
  • Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
  • Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM)
  • Internet Browser Knowledge
  • Electronic Mail Expertise

Education
  • Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent Level

Description:
Major Purpose
  • This job is for a Materials Engineering lab technician whose everyday assignments and tasks may vary from routine to infrequent.
  • Duties are relatively broad in scope and may require evaluations by the position holder.
  • The holder of this position will perform materials engineering supporting tasks or complex laboratory analytical functions with limited engineering oversight.

Major Duties
  • Completes tasks involving preparation or analysis of material samples/components/processes with minor engineering oversight for moderately complex activities.
  • Develops, recommends, and implements analytical or process changes to maintain or improve product quality.
  • Works with maintenance and production personnel to troubleshoot laboratory equipment, process, or analytical problems.
  • Participates in project teams to improve factory performance in safety, quality, cost, and delivery.
  • Creates and maintains process instructions or develops analytical processes to meet production needs.
  • Creates and maintains laboratory procedures and processes.
  • Maintains "Sustain" level of 5S in the materials engineering lab.

Qualifications
Technical Skills & Knowledge
  • Excellent understanding of part prints, process instructions, and industry standards.
  • Basic to moderate knowledge of ferrous machining processes and materials analysis.
  • Basic knowledge of production and analytical equipment, and maintenance activities.
  • Solid mechanical aptitude with a drive to grow this skill set.
  • Very good verbal and written communication skills.

Education
  • 2-year associate technical degree or equivalent work experience.

Relevant Work Experiences
  • Experience in process control and analytical analysis.
  • Experience in Client manufacturing environment.
  • Experience in shop floor or laboratory environment.
  • Participation in process problem-solving teams.
  • Demonstrated technical leadership and mentoring experience.
  • Experience with production systems and databases.
  • Experience using Microsoft Office Suite and other engineering software tools.

Specific Job Duties
  • Perform laboratory tasks and support activities in the materials lab as requests are received.
  • Work with requestors to ensure proper work is done and parts are delivered to the lab.
  • Order and stock lab consumables.
  • Track reservation number, IM number, price, order date, and delivery date.
  • Enter crib reservation in SAP (PDX) transaction.
  • Collect parts, perform audits, and maintain Monthly/Quarterly Audit spreadsheets.
  • Track work request system.
  • Maintain all lab equipment.
  • Support changeovers and adjustments at S450 crankshaft heat treat.
  • Maintain coolant levels in all saws.
  • Get new consumables approved for use.

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