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Materials Joining Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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How much do materials joining engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for materials joining 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 joining engineering?

Materials joining engineering is a specialized field that focuses on the methods and science of joining materials—such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites—using processes like welding, brazing, soldering, and adhesive bonding. This discipline involves understanding the properties of different materials, the mechanics of joining them, and the design and analysis of joints to ensure strength, durability, and safety. Materials joining engineers work in industries such as automotive, aerospace, construction, and manufacturing, where reliable joints are critical to product performance and safety.

What are some of the main challenges Materials Joining Engineers face when working on projects with new or advanced materials?

Materials Joining Engineers often encounter challenges when working with new or advanced materials, such as ensuring compatibility between dissimilar materials, developing suitable joining methods, and maintaining the integrity of joints under specific service conditions. These challenges require ongoing research, collaboration with materials scientists and design engineers, and staying updated on the latest joining technologies. Adaptability and problem-solving skills are essential, as engineers may need to develop novel solutions or modify existing processes to meet project requirements.

What is the difference between Materials Joining Engineering vs Welding Engineering?

AspectMaterials Joining EngineeringWelding Engineering
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in materials and joining processesEngineering degree, welding certifications (e.g., CWE, CWI)
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing plants, design officesFabrication shops, construction sites, manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, energy, manufacturingConstruction, shipbuilding, aerospace, manufacturing
FocusDeveloping and optimizing joining methods for various materialsPerforming and overseeing welding processes and quality control

Materials Joining Engineering involves designing and improving methods to connect materials, often across industries like aerospace and automotive. Welding Engineering specifically focuses on executing and managing welding processes. While both roles require similar technical knowledge and certifications, Materials Joining Engineers have a broader scope in developing joining techniques, whereas Welding Engineers concentrate on welding operations and quality assurance.

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

To thrive as a Materials Joining Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science, metallurgy, and engineering principles, usually backed by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with welding processes, non-destructive testing methods, and certifications such as AWS Certified Welding Engineer are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring the integrity, safety, and performance of joined materials in critical manufacturing and construction applications.
More about Materials Joining Engineering jobs
What job categories do people searching Materials Joining Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Materials Joining Engineering jobs are:
Infographic showing various Materials Joining Engineering job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,567 per year, or $26.7 per hour.
ENGINEER - RESEARCH ENGINEER - Welding Engineer

ENGINEER - RESEARCH ENGINEER - Welding Engineer

Southwest Research Institute - Fulltime

San Antonio, TX

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Southwest Research Institute rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 57 rated research


Job description

Who We Are: Who We Are: Join Materials Engineering Department and the Center for Accelerating Materials and Processes (CAMP). We focus on developing innovative manufacturing and advanced materials technologies to accelerate product development from concept to production. We serve as a collaborative hub for research, prototyping, and technology transfer across diverse industries.

Objectives of this Role: Work with the implementation of an advanced laser system which will then be leveraged to develop and apply laser welding procedures for the joining of novel materials. Work within a multidisciplinary team to optimize the fabrication of advanced materials within a vertically integrated additive manufacturing environment. Help to identify and pursue programmatic opportunities for conducting research of novel material joining methods.

Build and apply skills to support contract research programs, develop new technology areas, and interact with government and commercial clients. Help to identify and pursue opportunities for program growth and long-term sustainment in novel material joining methods. Daily and Monthly Responsibilities: Coordinate and schedule materials and test plans for laser welding development, research and production.

Leverage advanced onboard system tools to quantify laser welding behavior and characteristics and drive process improvements. Report outcomes from tests and provide feedback to team members and clients. Assist in authoring research proposal content in areas of developmental need in the area of high performance laser welding.

Requirements: Requires a Bachelors or a Masters degree in Welding Engineering or similar engineering degree field. 0-5 years: Experience and or training in procedure development in materials joining using methods such as laser or electron beam welding. 0-5 years: Experience in industrial automation/robotics, additive manufacturing processes, and materials selection.

A valid/clear driver's license is required.


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