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Materials Science Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Nano Nuclear Energy Inc

Senior Graphite Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site +1

$105K - $144K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or related field. * 5+ years of engineering experience; internship, research, and laboratory ...

Entegris

Material Characterization Scientist

Aurora, IL

$114K - $144K/yr

Working with scientistsand engineers in product design and production to design and execute DOE ... PhD in Polymer Science, Materials Scienceor related field required * 3+ years ofpost-graduate ...

Ohmite Manufacturing

Ceramic Engineer

Warrenville, IL · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Ceramics Engineering, Materials Science & Engineering, or related field Skills & Relevant Work Experience * Minimum of five years' experience with technical ceramics, ceramic ...

Hennig

Mechanical Engineer

Machesney Park, IL · On-site

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field, strong understanding of core mechanical engineering principles like mechanics, thermodynamics, and materials science, proficiency in CA ...

Koch Industries

Innovation Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Knowledge and expertise in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Material Science or a related technical field. * Experience in materials ...

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Materials Science Engineer information

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$39.2K

$89.8K

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How much do materials science engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for materials science engineer in Illinois is $89,770.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,400.00 and $99,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a materials science engineer?

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.

Is materials science engineering a good career?

Materials Science Engineering is a promising career that involves developing and testing new materials for various industries such as aerospace, electronics, and healthcare. It requires strong knowledge of chemistry, physics, and engineering principles, often utilizing tools like microscopy and spectroscopy, with opportunities for research, development, and innovation. Job prospects are generally good, especially for those with advanced degrees or specialized skills.

What kind of jobs do materials science engineers do?

Materials science engineers research, develop, and test 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 are the most commonly searched types of Materials Science Engineer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Materials Science Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Materials Science Engineer jobs in Illinois?

For Materials Science Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Materials Science Engineer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Materials Science Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Materials Science Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Materials Science Engineer job openings:

Materials Science Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Science Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% 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 $89,770 per year, or $43.2 per hour.

Senior Graphite Engineer

Nano Nuclear Energy Inc

Oak Brook, IL • On-site, Remote

$105K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 hours ago

Job description

About NANO Nuclear Energy

NANO Nuclear Energy is an advanced nuclear technology company developing next-generation microreactor systems that will help transform the future of clean, reliable, and resilient energy. Through the development of its KRONOS MMR Energy System, LOKI MMR Energy System, and ZEUS Solid Core Battery Reactor-advanced high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) technologies designed for applications including data centers, industrial operations, remote communities, and critical infrastructure-the company is advancing innovative nuclear solutions for a rapidly evolving energy landscape. NANO Nuclear has also submitted a Construction Permit Application (CPA) to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to support the planned deployment of the KRONOS MMR at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), representing a significant milestone toward the commercialization of advanced nuclear technology. 

Joining NANO Nuclear means contributing to pioneering technologies with the potential to redefine the nuclear industry while working alongside experts in engineering, science, and innovation. Our team operates in a collaborative, entrepreneurial environment where employees are encouraged to solve challenging technical problems and advance the materials technologies needed for next-generation energy systems. 

Position Overview

NANO Nuclear Energy is seeking a Graphite Engineer to support the development, analysis, and qualification of graphite components for advanced high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) systems. The successful candidate will support graphite material selection, characterization, mechanical and thermal performance evaluations, and component qualification activities to support the design of next-generation microreactor technologies. Experienced candidates with expertise in nuclear graphite, high-temperature materials, irradiation effects, or advanced reactor systems may provide technical leadership in materials qualification and design activities.

Key Responsibilities

  • Support the design, evaluation, and qualification of graphite components used in advanced reactor systems.
  • Analyze graphite material properties including thermal conductivity, strength, oxidation resistance, creep behavior, and dimensional stability.
  • Support material selection, procurement specifications, and supplier technical evaluations.
  • Perform engineering analyses related to high-temperature graphite performance.
  • Evaluate graphite behavior under thermal gradients, irradiation conditions, and operational environments.
  • Support development of material qualification plans, test requirements, and technical documentation.
  • Collaborate with mechanical, thermal, nuclear, and systems engineering teams.
  • Review technical literature and industry data related to graphite performance in HTGR applications.
  • Prepare engineering reports, calculations, presentations, and licensing support documentation.
  • Participate in design reviews and technical discussions with internal and external stakeholders.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or related field.
  • 5+ years of engineering experience; internship, research, and laboratory experience are applicable.
  • Understanding of materials science fundamentals, material properties, and degradation mechanisms.
  • Ability to analyze technical data and communicate engineering conclusions.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master's degree or Ph.D. in Materials Science, Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline.
  • Experience with graphite, carbon-based materials, ceramics, or high-temperature materials.
  • Experience with nuclear-grade graphite or HTGR materials.
  • Knowledge of irradiation effects, oxidation behavior, fracture mechanics, or creep mechanisms.
  • Experience with materials testing, characterization techniques, or qualification programs.
  • Familiarity with ASME standards, NRC licensing processes, or nuclear material requirements.
  • Experience with engineering analysis tools such as ANSYS, Abaqus, COMSOL, MATLAB, or Python.

What We Offer 

  • A collaborative engineering culture focused on innovation and technical excellence. 
  • Opportunities for mentorship, professional growth, and technical leadership. 
  • The opportunity to contribute to a cleaner, more reliable energy future. 
  • Competitive medical, dental, vision and life insurance with generous company contributions.
  • Company 401(k) plan with 5% match.
  • Unlimited PTO policy with company holidays and paid parental leave.

Equal Opportunity Statement 

NANO Nuclear Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to apply. 

Apply