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Materials Science Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Materials Science Engineer information

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$40.5K

$92.6K

$118.5K

How much do materials science engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for materials science engineer in the United States is $92,639.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $102,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What kind of jobs do material science engineers do?

Materials science engineers research, develop, and test new materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites for various applications. They work in industries like aerospace, automotive, electronics, and healthcare, often using tools like microscopy and spectroscopy, and may require knowledge of manufacturing processes and material properties.

What does a Materials Science Engineer do?

A Materials Science Engineer studies and develops materials to improve their performance, durability, and efficiency in various applications. They work with metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites to create new materials or enhance existing ones for industries such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and electronics. Their work involves research, testing, and developing manufacturing processes to ensure materials meet required standards. They collaborate with scientists, engineers, and manufacturers to solve material-related challenges.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced materials science engineers working in senior roles, research leadership, or specialized industries such as aerospace, semiconductor, or energy can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires advanced degrees, extensive expertise, and leadership responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Materials Science Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Materials Science Engineer, you need a strong grasp of materials characterization, thermodynamics, and engineering principles, typically supported by a degree in materials science, chemistry, or a related field. Familiarity with lab testing equipment, materials modeling software, and certifications such as Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing can be highly valuable. Effective teamwork, problem-solving, and clear communication skills enable you to collaborate across disciplines and convey complex findings. These abilities are crucial for driving innovation, ensuring product quality, and meeting project goals in materials development and engineering environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Materials Science Engineers in their daily work?

Materials Science Engineers often encounter challenges such as optimizing material properties for specific applications, troubleshooting manufacturing defects, and staying current with rapidly evolving material technologies. They may need to balance theoretical research with practical implementation, all while ensuring compliance with industry standards and project deadlines. Working in this role often involves close collaboration with product designers, engineers, and production teams to integrate new materials into existing or novel products. Overcoming these challenges requires both technical expertise and the ability to communicate complex information effectively within multidisciplinary teams.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior materials science engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and expertise in specialized areas such as nanotechnology or aerospace can earn $200,000 or more annually. High salaries are often associated with leadership roles, working in high-demand industries, or in companies with competitive compensation packages.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior materials science engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in areas like nanotechnology or aerospace can earn $300,000 or more annually. High-level roles often require leadership responsibilities, industry certifications, and work in high-paying sectors such as aerospace, defense, or semiconductor manufacturing.
More about Materials Science Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Materials Science Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Materials Science Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Materials Science Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Materials Science Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Materials Science Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Materials Science Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Materials Science Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,639 per year, or $44.5 per hour.
Materials Science Engineer

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago


Advanced Drainage Systems rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 81 rated plastic manufacturers


Job description

Overview

Advanced Drainage Systems is a leading manufacturer of stormwater and onsite septic wastewater solutions, committed to sustainability and innovation. With a vast manufacturing and distribution network, we deliver high-quality products across multiple industries while recycling over half a billion pounds of plastic annually. At ADS, we foster a culture where diverse perspectives drive better ideas, ensuring every employee feels valued, heard, and empowered to make an impact.

Responsibilities

As a Materials Science Engineer, you will help develop, test, and improve the plastic materials used in ADS products. You will work with engineers, manufacturing teams, suppliers, and laboratory staff to evaluate materials, solve problems, and support sustainability initiatives through the use of recycled plastics. 

What You'll Do 

  • Test and evaluate plastic materials and recycled resin blends. 
  • Assist with laboratory testing and manufacturing trials. 
  • Help develop new material formulations and improve existing ones. 
  • Support manufacturing plants by investigating material and processing issues. 
  • Document test results, material specifications, and recommendations. 
  • Collaborate with product development, quality, manufacturing, purchasing, and recycling teams. 

What We're Looking For 

  • Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Chemistry, or a related technical field. 
  • Interest in plastics, materials testing, manufacturing, and sustainability. 
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. 
  • Ability to work effectively on cross-functional teams. 
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills. 
  • Internship, co-op, or research experience involving materials, polymers, manufacturing, or laboratory testing. 
  • Familiarity with plastic materials such as polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene (PP). 

Why This Role? 

  • This position offers the opportunity to learn about materials science, sustainable manufacturing, recycling technologies, and product development while working alongside experienced engineers and scientists. 

#LI-CH1

#LI-Onsite

Company Benefits:

Health & Welfare Benefits: Medical and prescription drug plans, telemedicine (with medical plan), High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) and Health Savings Account (HSA), dental and vision plans, virtual physical therapy*, an employee assistance program (EAP)*, and voluntary accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnification programs.

 Financial Benefits: Retirement 401k program with company match, an employee stock purchase plan (voluntary), financial wellness planning*, paid parental leave*, flexible spending accounts (FSA) for child care and health care, short-term and long-term disability*, basic life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D)*, adoption financial reimbursement*, tuition reimbursement*, voluntary life insurance (for employees, spouses, and children), and voluntary identity theft and fraud protection.

*100% paid by ADS.

Why Join ADS?

Growth Opportunities & Global Presence: With a global network of approximately 70 manufacturing plants and 40 distribution centers, ADS offers extensive opportunities for career growth and development in various locations around the world.

Inclusive and Creative Work Culture: ADS fosters a culture of passion, innovation, and continuous improvement, empowering employees to shape industry-leading solutions. We value diverse perspectives, recognizing that they drive better ideas, processes, and performance. Our workplace is built on respect, inclusivity, and shared responsibility, ensuring every team member feels valued and contributes to our collective success.

Innovative & Sustainability Focused: Advanced Drainage Systems is one of the largest plastic recyclers in North America, ensuring over half a billion pounds of plastic is kept out of landfills every year.

Learn More: https://www.adspipe.com/about-us

EEO Statement

ADS supports an inclusive workplace that values diversity of thought, experience, and background. We celebrate the power of our differences to create better solutions for our customers by ensuring employees can be their authentic selves each day. ADS is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, pregnancy, veteran status, marital status, creed, status with regard to public assistance, genetic status or any other status protected by federal, state or local law.

Employment Type: OTHER

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