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Materials Engineering Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Peraton

Hull Treatment Materials Engineer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Perform hands-on engineering in support of the US Navy's submarine force. * Design and manufacture prototype articles and molds * Work side-by-side with other engineers, technicians, and shipyard ...

Delphinus Engineering

Materials Engineer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$85K/yr

Delphinus Engineering offers an empowering professional environment in a culture that stresses ... This role involves direct support to government engineers for material condition assessments ...

Peraton

Hull Treatment Materials Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Perform hands-on engineering in support of the US Navy's submarine force. * Design and manufacture prototype articles and molds * Work side-by-side with other engineers, technicians, and shipyard ...

Ion Storage Systems

Materials Engineer III

Beltsville, MD · On-site

$132K/yr

This is a project leadership role for a candidate who brings deep materials or ceramic engineering expertise, drives development programs with structured experimentation and data, and is motivated by ...

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Materials Engineering information

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How much do materials engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for materials engineering in Washington is $30.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.07 and $37.31 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.

What cities in Washington are hiring for Materials Engineering jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Materials Engineering job openings:

Materials Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Engineering job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,935 per year, or $30.3 per hour.

Hull Treatment Materials Engineer

Bethesda, MD • On-site

Peraton
IT Services • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Peratonexternal

$86K - $138K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Responsibilities
Peraton is looking for a Hull's Treatment Materials Engineer to work onsite in West Bethesda, MD.
What you will do:
  • Perform hands-on engineering in support of the US Navy's submarine force.
  • Design and manufacture prototype articles and molds
  • Work side-by-side with other engineers, technicians, and shipyard personnel producing, installing, and testing advanced polymer items
  • Use a range of hand tools to fabricate, install, and evaluate test articles
  • Interface with government, contractor, and shipyard personnel on technical and schedule requirements
  • Lead teams of engineers and technicians in shipyard installation and testing
  • Travel to public shipyards and other locations possible for two week periods

Qualifications
What you will need:
  • BS Engineering required (Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering or Chemical Engineering with GPA of 3.0 or higher preferred) and 5+ years experience 3 years with MS/MA
  • Demonstrated interest in hands-on work through academic or work experience
  • Experience with polymer processing is a bonus
  • Experience or coursework in acoustics also a bonus
  • Demonstrated leadership traits through task supervision or social / athletic group membership (Team Captain, Club Officer, Scouting, etc) is a plus
  • Requires Active DOD Secret Clearance

Peraton Overview
Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.
Target Salary Range
$86,000 - $138,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.
EEO
EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.

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About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017

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