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Materials Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MSD

Assoc Prin. Scientist, Materials Science

Rahway, NJ · On-site

$142K - $224K/yr

PhD in Materials Science and Engineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences or related discipline with 4 years relevant industrial experience (non-academic). Experience and ...

BorgWarner

Staff Materials Science Engineer

Arden, NC · On-site

S taff Materials Science Engineer About us BorgWarner is a global product leader in delivering innovative and sustainable mobility solutions. We are a company of innovators and independent thinkers ...

NovoLINC Inc

Materials Scientist

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

This role is ideal for candidates with a strong background in materials science, hands-on experience in applied R&D and product development, and a demonstrated problem-solving skill. Reporting ...

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How much do materials science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for materials science in the United States is $123,973.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,500.00 and $167,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What careers are in material science?

Careers in materials science include roles such as materials engineer, research scientist, quality control analyst, and product development engineer. These positions often require knowledge of materials properties, testing methods, and proficiency with tools like microscopy and spectroscopy, with opportunities in industries like aerospace, automotive, electronics, and healthcare.

What does a materials scientist do?

A materials scientist researches and develops new materials or improves existing ones, such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites. They analyze material properties, use laboratory equipment, and often work in research labs or manufacturing environments to solve technical problems and innovate in product design.

What is a Materials Science job?

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.

How much money does a materials scientist usually make?

Materials scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $97,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $60,000 to over $150,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced skills, certifications, and working in specialized industries can lead to higher compensation.

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 in new materials and technologies continue to expand, requiring skills in laboratory analysis, computer modeling, and materials characterization.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Materials Science position, and why are they important?

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.

More about Materials Science jobs
What cities are hiring for Materials Science jobs? Cities with the most Materials Science job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Materials Science jobs? The most popular types of Materials Science jobs are:
What states have the most Materials Science jobs? States with the most job openings for Materials Science jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Materials Science jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Materials Science jobs are:
Materials Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Science job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,973 per year, or $59.6 per hour.
Materials Science Engineering Manager

Materials Science Engineering Manager

Swagelok Company

Solon, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago

Swagelok rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

157th of 527 rated manufacturers

Job description

Shift: 1st shift
City: Solon
Swagelok, Northeast Ohio, USA
Swagelok is a global organization and one of the largest employers of manufacturing talent in Northeast Ohio. We are driven by our core values of Quality, Integrity, Respect for the Individual, Customer Focus, Innovation, and Continuous Improvement, which are demonstrated through our daily actions. For over 75 years, our dedication to our core values has been the foundation for our success. Our products have been up into space, down to the bottom of the ocean, and everywhere in between. That same dedication spans to our customers.
Throughout our organization we demonstrate a commitment to these values and those we bring onboard. Whether you want to grow in your role or explore broad opportunities and develop new skills-you'll thrive in a culture that promotes learning and development.
We strive to be a company where we all can do our best work with a true sense of purpose and belonging.
Be Connected. Be Valued. Be You.
We hope you'll consider joining our team.
Position Summary:
Leads the Materials Science & Technology (MSAT) team within Swagelok's Engineering organization, managing a team of materials scientists and engineers who support both day-to-day operational needs and research & development. Provides deep technical leadership in materials characterization, failure analysis, materials selection, corrosion, chemistry, chemical proceses, and surface engineering across Swagelok's product portfolio and manufacturing operations. Drives a balanced project agenda of business sustaining initiatives and knowledge and longer-horizon R&D. Partners with cross-functional teams - including Sourcing, Product Engineering, Manufacturing, Product Investigations and Quality - to translate materials science expertise into measurable business outcomes.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Lead, develop, and retain a team of materials scientists, engineers, and technicians; set clear performance expectations, provide ongoing coaching, and build succession depth within the team.
  • Direct the MSAT team's project portfolio, balancing near-term operational support with longer-range R&D investments and ensuring alignment with business priorities.
  • Apply cost-vs-impact thinking to prioritize materials research projects; evaluate and communicate the business value of R&D investments to senior leadership.
  • Oversee materials characterization, failure analysis, material selection, corrosion, chemistry, chemical processes, surface engineering, and related laboratory activities.
  • Define and communicate a clear team strategy aligned with Swagelok's broader engineering and product development objectives.
  • Manage department operating budget including planning, tracking variances, identifying cost-reduction opportunities, and overseeing capital equipment investments.
  • Build and sustain relationships with external research institutions, suppliers, and industry networks to maintain awareness of advances in materials science and emerging technologies.
  • Drive talent development through structured individual development plans, mentoring, and targeted training programs; actively engage in succession planning.
  • Communicate departmental project status, resource needs, and strategic priorities to senior leadership through regular reporting and presentations.
  • As a leader, you are expected to know, enforce, and appropriately escalate all Swagelok associate policies.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Approximate # of direct reports (if applicable) - 7-12 materials scientists, engineers, and technicians (direct reports); may also provide indirect technical guidance to laboratory technicians or contractors.
Budget responsibility (if applicable) - Department operating budget including wages, laboratory supplies, capital equipment, and R&D project expenses.
Education and/or Work Experience Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Polymer Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field required; Master's degree strongly preferred, PHD desired.
  • Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in materials science, metallurgy, or a related engineering discipline.
  • Minimum 3-5 years of experience in a formal leadership role managing engineers or technical professionals.
  • Demonstrated track record of managing both business sustaining/operational and R&D/innovation work simultaneously in an industrial or manufacturing environment.
  • Proven ability to translate materials science expertise into practical engineering and business solutions, including cost-benefit analysis of technical decisions.
  • Experience working in precision manufacturing, fluid handling, or related industries preferred.
  • Knowledge of Swagelok products, fluid system components, Semiconductor or Oil/Gas/Chemical applications preferred

Critical Competencies:
Essential for Day One:
  • Managing Complexity: Analyzes multifaceted technical and organizational problems and distills them into clear, actionable plans; comfortable operating with ambiguity and competing priorities.
  • Interpersonal Savvy: Builds strong, trust-based relationships across functions and levels of the organization; communicates with clarity, empathy, and credibility.
  • Influence: Drives alignment and commitment without direct authority; effectively advocates for team direction, resources, and technical priorities.
  • Organizational Agility: Understands how to navigate organizational dynamics to accomplish goals; adapts leadership approach based on context and stakeholder needs.
  • Business & Financial Acumen: Applies cost-vs-impact thinking to materials R&D decisions; understands the financial implications of technical choices and communicates them clearly.
  • Developing Direct Reports & Others: Actively builds bench strength; creates meaningful development plans and career pathways for team members; invests in talent retention.

Can Be Developed in Role:
  • Strategic Mindset: Connects MSAT capabilities to Swagelok's longer-term product, materials, and market strategy.
  • Decision Quality: Makes sound decisions under uncertainty, drawing on data, stakeholder input, and materials science expertise.
  • Cross-functional Knowledge: Builds familiarity with Sourcing, Product Management, Marketing, and Manufacturing/Operations to increase organizational impact.
  • External Market Awareness: Develops ongoing knowledge of emerging materials technologies, supplier landscape, and competitive dynamics relevant to Swagelok's business.

Working Conditions and/or Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards.
  • Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards.
  • Office and laboratory environment; may require occasional work in manufacturing or test areas, which may require use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Swagelok provides a comprehensive package of valuable benefits called Total Rewards focused on health and wellness, compensation, retirement planning, and supplemental rewards.
To apply:
1. Click 'Apply Now' to the role of interest, upload your resume and complete the application.
2. Those that match our qualifications will be contacted to schedule a phone interview.
Congratulations on taking the first step to Be Connected. Be Valued. Be You.
Swagelok is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants are selected without regard to race, ethnicity, creed, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, pregnancy-related medical conditions, age, national origin or ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran/military status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristic under federal, state or local law.
Swagelok will make reasonable accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008, and Ohio state law.
This job summary is intended to be brief and does not list all the duties for this position. Nothing in this job description should be construed as an express or implied contract of employment. Swagelok is an at-will employer, which means that either party is free to terminate the employment relationship at any time, without any advanced notice, for any reason or no reason.
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