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Materials Science Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Iowa State University

Research Scientist I

Ames, IA · On-site

Bachelor's degree The Department of Materials Science and Engineering is seeking a Research Scientist I to conduct research on polymeric thin films for applications in thermal management, lubricants ...

Lincoln Electric

Material Coordinator

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

The Company leverages proprietary technologies and expertise in materials science, power electronics, automation, and intelligent software to help customers build better and achieve resilience in ...

Emerson Group

Materials Engineer

Marshalltown, IA · On-site

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 ...

Lincoln Electric

Material Coordinator

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

The Company leverages proprietary technologies and expertise in materials science, power electronics, automation, and intelligent software to help customers build better and achieve resilience in ...

Emerson

Materials Engineer

Marshalltown, IA · On-site

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 ...

Lincoln Electric

Material Coordinator

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

The Company leverages proprietary technologies and expertise in materials science, power electronics, automation, and intelligent software to help customers build better and achieve resilience in ...

Varsity Tutors

Inorganic Chemistry Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain ligand field splitting, metal-ligand bonding, and catalytic mechanisms while preparing students for advanced chemistry and materials science coursework. * Conceptual Teaching ...

Varsity Tutors

Inorganic Chemistry Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain ligand field splitting, metal-ligand bonding, and catalytic mechanisms while preparing students for advanced chemistry and materials science coursework. * Conceptual Teaching ...

Varsity Tutors

Agricultural Science Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple ... science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students ...

Varsity Tutors

ACT Science Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple ... science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students ...

Varsity Tutors

ACT Science Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple ... science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students ...

Varsity Tutors

Agricultural Science Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple ... science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students ...

Varsity Tutors

Physical Science Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple ... science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students ...

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All JobsMaterials Science JobsMaterials Science Jobs in Iowa

Materials Science information

See Iowa salary details

$49.8K

$116.4K

$162.5K

How much do materials science jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for materials science in Iowa is $116,444.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,800.00 and $156,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a materials science?

A Materials Science job involves studying and developing materials to improve existing products or create new ones. Professionals in this field work with metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites to enhance properties like strength, durability, and conductivity. They collaborate with engineers and manufacturers in industries such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, and healthcare. Common roles include materials engineer, metallurgist, and research scientist.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in materials science?

To thrive in Materials Science, you need strong analytical skills in chemistry and physics, a degree in materials science or a related engineering field, and hands-on laboratory experience. Familiarity with technical tools such as electron microscopes, spectrometers, and materials characterization software, as well as certifications like Six Sigma or ASQ, are commonly required. Problem-solving abilities, effective teamwork, and clear communication skills are highly valued in this profession. These competencies are crucial for developing innovative materials, ensuring quality, and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams in research and industrial settings.

What typical career paths are available for professionals in materials science?

Materials Science professionals can pursue a variety of career paths including roles in research and development, quality assurance, product design, manufacturing, and technical consulting. Many start as lab technicians or junior engineers and can advance to senior scientist, project manager, or even into leadership roles such as director of materials engineering. Career progression often depends on accumulating hands-on experience, pursuing advanced degrees, and developing expertise with specialized materials or industry applications. Employers value individuals who continually update their skills and contribute to cross-functional projects. The field offers diverse opportunities in industries such as aerospace, automotive, biomedical devices, electronics, and energy.

Are materials scientists in demand?

Materials scientists are in demand in industries such as aerospace, electronics, and energy, where advanced materials are essential. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as research and development continue to expand, and skills in characterization techniques and computer modeling are highly valued.

Is a materials science degree worth it?

A materials science degree prepares individuals for careers in research, development, and manufacturing of materials, often requiring knowledge of chemistry, physics, and engineering principles. It can lead to roles in industries such as aerospace, electronics, and energy, with job prospects improving through internships and specialized skills like materials characterization and CAD software. The degree provides a solid foundation for technical roles and advancement in the field.

What jobs can I get with a materials science degree?

A materials science degree qualifies individuals for roles such as materials engineer, research scientist, quality control analyst, and product development engineer. These jobs often involve working with metals, polymers, ceramics, or composites, and may require knowledge of testing methods, CAD software, and industry standards.

What jobs can you do with materials science?

Materials science graduates can pursue careers as materials engineers, research scientists, quality control specialists, or product development engineers. These roles involve designing, testing, and improving materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites, often requiring knowledge of laboratory techniques and computer-aided design tools.

What are the most commonly searched types of Materials Science jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Materials Science jobs in Iowa are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Materials Science jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Materials Science job openings:

Materials Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Science job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% 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 $116,444 per year, or $56 per hour.

Research Scientist I

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Iowa State University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

390th of 628 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Title:Research Scientist IJob Group:Professional & ScientificRequired Minimum Qualifications:Bachelor's degreeJob Description:

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering is seeking a Research Scientist I to conduct research on polymeric thin films for applications in thermal management, lubricants, and patterning. This role will independently perform polymer synthesis, characterization, photocrosslinking, chemical etching, nanofabrication, and thermal transport studies with minimal direction from the PI. The position will also prepare research reports and publications, assist with research proposals, and present findings at conferences.

The Research Scientist I will help maintain a safe, organized, and functional laboratory by following EHS requirements, developing SOPs, managing laboratory supplies, and training lab personnel. The position will mentor and supervise undergraduate and graduate students in polymer synthesis, thermal transport, photocrosslinking, and nanofabrication, while providing regular updates on student performance and responsibilities.

This is a term position with an end date of August 31, 2029, with the potential for renewal based on funding availability.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Thermal transport of polymer thin films
  • Nanofabricating crosslinked polymer thin films
  • Develop solid lubricants
  • Develop ablative materials
  • PhD in Polymer Chemistry

About the Department:
The Department of Materials Science and Engineering advances research and education focused on the development, characterization, and application of materials that address real-world challenges. Through interdisciplinary research and collaboration, the department explores innovative materials and technologies while providing students with opportunities to engage in hands-on research. Faculty, researchers, and students work together in a collaborative environment to advance materials science and engineering across a range of applications.

Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

Resume/Curriculum Vitae

Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

  • Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
  • Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and 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
  • Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Appointment Type:Regular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term)Proposed End Date or Length of Term:August 31, 2029Number of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work PeriodTime Type:Part timePay Grade:PS807Original Posting Date:August 19, 2026Posting Close Date:August 26, 2026Job Requisition Number:R19787

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.

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