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Materials Science Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

ECS

Scientist - Advanced Microsystems

Arlington, VA · On-site

Masters or Ph.D. in Materials Science, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a closely related technical discipline. * 8+ years of ...

Applied Materials

Maintenance Technician III

Manassas, VA · On-site

$23 - $31.40/hr

Who We Are Applied Materials is the global leader in materials science and engineering solutions that are at the foundation of virtually every new semiconductor chip and advanced display in the world.

Applied Materials

Field Service Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$37 - $51.20/hr

Who We Are Applied Materials is the global leader in materials science and engineering solutions that are at the foundation of virtually every new semiconductor chip and advanced display in the world.

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Materials Science information

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$52.5K

$122.9K

$171.5K

How much do materials science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for materials science in Virginia is $122,910.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,700.00 and $165,600.00 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Materials Science jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Materials Science job openings:

Materials Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Science job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $122,910 per year, or $59.1 per hour.

Research Associate in Materials Science and Engineering

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

University of Virginia
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

210th of 622 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about University of Virginiaexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Virginia is accepting applications for a postdoctoral research associate position that focuses on transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and defect characterization in materials.
The research conducted in Prof. Zhou's laboratory focuses on advanced in-situ/ex-situ electron microscopy and spectroscopy, materials for quantum information science, and phases and phase transitions in ferroic materials.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Design and execute novel in situ and ex situ electron microscopy studies of thin film heterostructures and devices for quantum computing
  • Publish results in high-impact journals
  • Mentor graduate and undergraduate students

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering or a closely related field, with a dissertation emphasizing electron microscopy
  • Extensive experience with TEM and complementary techniques, including aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), high-resolution TEM (HRTEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS).
  • Strong expertise in TEM specimen preparation (e.g., focus ion beam (FIB) milling and conventional methods)
  • Experience in electric-field mapping (using electron microscopy and related techniques) or in EELS is highly desirable.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in written and spoken English for effective communication with collaborators and sponsors
  • Excellent analytical and record-keeping skills, with strong attention to detail.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
Apply online at https://jobs.virginia.edu/us and search for R0086399. Attach the following documents: a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references. Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the box .
APPLICATION DEADLINE:
Review of applications will begin on August 24, 2026, but the position will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.
This is a one-year appointment, and the appointment may be renewed contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.
For questions about the position, please contact Lin Zhou, Associate Professor, at linzhou@virginia.edu .
For questions regarding the application, please contact Rich Haverstrom, Faculty Search Advisor, at rkh6j@virginia.edu .
A competitive salary and benefits package is offered at University of Virginia. For more information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits .
Job Profile
J0267 - Research Associate - 12 Month
Career Stream and Level
No Career Stream-No Level
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .
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About University of Virginia

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The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

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Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819

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