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Materials Science Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Undergraduate degree in Material Science and Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Polymer Science, or Plastics Engineering. * Candidates holding or pursuing an advanced degree or with 2+ years of ...

Undergraduate degree in Material Science and Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Polymer Science, or Plastics Engineering. * Candidates holding or pursuing an advanced degree or with 2+ years of ...

The Company leverages proprietary technologies and expertise in materials science, power ... Complete mechanical engineering items needed to design, build, ship and service products. A ...

The Company leverages proprietary technologies and expertise in materials science, power ... Complete mechanical engineering items needed to design, build, ship and service products. A ...

The Company leverages proprietary technologies and expertise in materials science, power ... Complete mechanical engineering items needed to design, build, ship and service products. A ...

Metallurgical Engineer

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

... Material Science, or Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution. - 1 year of related experience or internship equivalent. Nice to have: - 4+ years of metallurgical experience - Quality ...

Deep knowledge of structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, hydraulics, environmental engineering, materials science, surveying, and construction management. Ability ...

Deep knowledge of structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, hydraulics, environmental engineering, materials science, surveying, and construction management. Ability ...

Deep knowledge of Java programming including primitive types, objects, boolean expressions ... Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple ...

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How much do materials science engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for materials science engineer in Iowa is $87,013.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,900.00 and $96,300.00 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?

Senior materials science engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in areas like nanotechnology or aerospace can reach salaries of $500,000 or more, especially in leadership roles or high-paying industries. Achieving this level often requires a combination of technical expertise, project management, and sometimes stock options or bonuses.

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.

Are materials engineers paid well?

Materials Science Engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary by industry, experience, and location. According to industry data, the median annual wage is above the national average for engineering roles, and specialized skills or certifications can lead to higher pay. The profession often offers opportunities for advancement and salary growth with experience.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Materials Science Engineers can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, or leadership roles in industries like aerospace, semiconductor manufacturing, or energy. High salaries often require specialized skills, such as proficiency with CAD software, research expertise, and a strong understanding of materials properties, along with working in high-demand sectors or holding managerial positions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Materials Science Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Materials Science Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Materials Science Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Materials Science Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Materials Science Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Materials Science Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Materials Science Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Materials Science Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Materials Science Engineer job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,013 per year, or $41.8 per hour.
Assistant Teaching Professor - Materials Science and Engineering

Assistant Teaching Professor - Materials Science and Engineering

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Iowa State University rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

309th of 537 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Title:
Assistant Teaching Professor - Materials Science and Engineering
Appointment Type:
Faculty
Job Description:
Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:
The Department of Materials Science and Engineering in the College of Engineering at Iowa State University invites applications for an Assistant Teaching Professor position in Materials Science and Engineering. The anticipated start date is August 16, 2026. This is a one-year, full time, non-tenure eligible term appointment. Renewal may be possible based on performance and the availability of funding.
The primary responsibility of this position is undergraduate instruction in foundational Materials Science and Engineering courses. The successful candidate will primarily teach lower-level undergraduate courses such as Materials Engineering 2730, introductory materials science, and other core curriculum courses that support the undergraduate program. Responsibilities may also include participation in course coordination, development of instructional materials, and mentoring undergraduate students.
The Department of Materials Science and Engineering is committed to sustaining a collegial, positive, and productive environment for both individuals and the broader academic community. Faculty members are expected to contribute to a collaborative department culture, maintain high standards of integrity and professionalism, and participate constructively in departmental, college, and university activities.
The successful candidate should demonstrate strong commitment to high quality undergraduate teaching, effective communication skills, and the ability to engage and mentor students from a wide variety of academic backgrounds. Candidates are expected to contribute to the instructional mission of the department and support continuous improvement of the undergraduate curriculum.
Required Minimum Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in engineering or related discipline and 3 years of relevant work experience, or a doctoral degree in engineering or related discipline
  • Demonstrated experience in teaching materials science or related STEM subjects
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Ph. D. or equivalent in Materials Science and Engineering (MSE)
  • Demonstrated ability to develop and teach foundational undergraduate courses in Materials Science and Engineering, particularly Materials Engineering 2730 and related core courses, including experience teaching large enrollment classes (>100 students)
  • Experience using modern courses management systems such as Canvas to support effective instruction and student engagement
  • Strong commitment to high quality undergraduate teaching and student learning
  • Excellent communication skills and demonstrated instructional clarity
Department/Program & College Description:
The Department of Materials Science and Engineering has 18 faculty members. To learn more about our faculty, please visit our faculty directory. The Department of Materials Science and Engineering has about 100 undergraduate students and about 50 graduate students. Sponsored research expenditures of the department are over $14M per year.
For more information about our department's engineering program, see mse.iastate.edu
Proposed Start Date:
August 16, 2026
Proposed End Date or Length of Term:
May 15, 2027
Number of Months Employed Per Year:
09 Month Work Period
Time Type:
Full time
Application Instructions:
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. However, to receive full consideration, applications should be received by April 6th, 2026. All interested, qualified persons must apply for this position online at http://jobs.iastate.edu to Job Requisition Number R18809.
The following documents are required to be submitted in PDF format:
1) Letter of application (including information about the desired rank) that briefly discusses how the candidate meets each of the preferred qualifications
2) Curriculum Vitae
3) Contact information for at least three references, including name, mailing address, email address, phone number, and other pertinent information
4) Other documents:
- One-page teaching statement
Direct questions to Shan Jiang at sjiang@iastate.edu or call 515-294-1445.
Why Choose ISU?
Iowa State Faculty enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program
Original Posting Date:
March 23, 2026
Posting Close Date:
Job Requisition Number:
R18809

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