1

Materials Science Internships Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Materials Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or related field. * 0-5 years of engineering experience; internships ...

Today, we accelerate and transform life sciences, mobile consumer electronics, optical ... internship, or early-career backgrounds, while candidates from adjacent engineering disciplines ...

Today, we accelerate and transform life sciences, mobile consumer electronics, optical ... internship, or early-career backgrounds, while candidates from adjacent engineering disciplines ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Materials Science Internships information

See salary details

$9

$22

$31

How much do materials science internships jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for materials science internships in the United States is $22.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Materials Science Internships vs Materials Engineering Internships?

AspectMaterials Science InternshipsMaterials Engineering Internships
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a degree in materials science, chemistry, or physicsUsually requires a degree in materials engineering, metallurgical engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, or R&D departmentsManufacturing plants, design labs, or product development teams
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by research institutions, universities, and companies focusing on material propertiesCommon in industries like aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing for product development

Materials Science Internships focus on understanding material properties and research, while Materials Engineering Internships emphasize applying engineering principles to develop and improve materials in practical applications. Both roles often overlap but serve different core objectives within the materials field.

What are materials science internships?

Materials science internships are short-term, hands-on learning experiences for students or recent graduates interested in the field of materials science. These internships typically involve working with professionals in research laboratories, manufacturing facilities, or engineering companies to gain practical skills and knowledge related to materials properties, development, and testing. Interns may participate in projects involving metals, polymers, ceramics, composites, and nanomaterials, and learn about their applications in various industries. These experiences are valuable for building a resume, networking, and exploring potential career paths in materials science and engineering.

What kinds of hands-on projects can I expect to work on during a materials science internship?

As a materials science intern, you will often participate in practical, project-based work such as synthesizing new materials, analyzing material properties in laboratory settings, or assisting in product development and testing. Interns commonly collaborate with research scientists and engineers, gaining experience with advanced equipment and experimental techniques. These projects help develop both technical and problem-solving skills, and may also include preparing reports or presenting findings to the team. Such experiences provide valuable insight into how materials science impacts real-world applications in industries like aerospace, automotive, and electronics.

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

To thrive as a Materials Science Intern, you need a solid background in chemistry, physics, and materials engineering, typically demonstrated through relevant coursework or a related degree program. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, materials characterization tools (such as SEM, XRD, or FTIR), and data analysis software is highly beneficial. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills set candidates apart. These competencies are crucial for accurately conducting experiments, analyzing results, and collaborating within research or industrial teams.
More about Materials Science Internships jobs
What cities are hiring for Materials Science Internships jobs? Cities with the most Materials Science Internships job openings:
What states have the most Materials Science Internships jobs? States with the most job openings for Materials Science Internships jobs include:
Infographic showing various Materials Science Internships job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,181 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Materials Science Engineer

Advanced Drainage Systems

Hilliard, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 2 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

45th of 84 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

What Advanced Drainage Systems employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom