ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Materials Scientist Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

MSD

Senior Scientist, Chemistry & Materials

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

D. in Physical Sciences, Chemistry, Materials Science, Physics, Engineering or related fields with 2 years of independent and productive research or development experience. * Master's degree may be ...

Delphinus Engineering

Materials Engineer

Bethesda, MD · Hybrid

$85K/yr

  • Retirement

Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering, Welding Engineering, or a closely related discipline. REQUIREMENTS: * 2-5+ years of relevant engineering experience in ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMaterials Scientist JobsMaterials Scientist Jobs in Reston, VA

Materials Scientist information

See Reston, VA salary details

$55.1K

$129K

$180K

How much do materials scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for materials scientist in Reston, VA is $128,976.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,300.00 and $173,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a materials scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Materials Scientist, you need a strong background in chemistry, physics, and engineering, typically supported by a degree in materials science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory techniques, analytical instruments (like SEM, XRD), and modeling software such as MATLAB or COMSOL is often required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with teams and presenting research findings. These skills ensure accurate analysis, innovation, and successful development of new materials for various applications.

What does a materials scientist do?

A Materials Scientist studies and analyzes the properties, structures, and performance of different materials, such as metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites. They work to develop new materials or improve existing ones for a wide range of applications, from electronics to aerospace and healthcare. Their work often involves researching how materials interact with various environments and developing processes to manufacture materials with desired characteristics.

What is the difference between Materials Scientist vs Chemist?

AspectMaterials ScientistChemist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science, Chemistry, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departmentsLaboratories, research institutions, industrial settings
Industry UsageMaterials development, product testing, quality controlChemical analysis, formulation, process development

Materials Scientists and Chemists often share educational backgrounds and work in laboratory settings. However, Materials Scientists focus on developing and testing materials like metals, polymers, and ceramics, while Chemists primarily analyze chemical substances and reactions. Both roles are vital in research and manufacturing industries, but their specific focus areas differ, influencing their daily tasks and career paths.

What are some common challenges materials scientists face when working on new product development projects?

Materials Scientists often encounter challenges such as balancing innovative material properties with cost-effectiveness, scalability, and manufacturability. Collaborating with cross-functional teams—including engineers, designers, and production staff—can add complexity, as each group may have different priorities and technical requirements. Additionally, staying updated on the latest scientific advancements and regulatory standards is essential for ensuring that newly developed materials are both cutting-edge and compliant. Effective communication and adaptability are key to overcoming these challenges and driving successful product development.
More about Materials Scientist jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Materials Scientist jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Materials Scientist jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Materials Scientist jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Materials Scientist job openings:

Materials Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Scientist job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,976 per year, or $62 per hour.

Senior Scientist, Chemistry & Materials

MSD

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:
This position is responsible for developing, planning, and executing basic and applied research and development activities in areas that may include electrochemiluminescence, electroactive/conducting materials, light emitting materials, electroanalytical chemistry, polymer chemistry, transition metal organometallic chemistry, photochemistry, and/or photophysics. The incumbent will contribute to new product development in the form of methods, assays, reagents and instrumentation platforms utilized in the life science or clinical fields. This position will collaborate across interdisciplinary teams and/or may supervise the work of others directly.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Independently develops, designs, and executes complex experiments for self and others to support research, feasibility, and product development and/or qualification efforts.
  • Performs material and/or compound formulation and/or synthesis, and develops analytical and research tools and methods. Handles moisture-sensitive and/or air-sensitive compounds and or materials.
  • Prepares experimental procedures, maintains laboratory notebooks and prepares procedures, batch/test records to support product development and research efforts. Keeps organized, detailed and clear project records for self and any direct reports.
  • Procures reagents and equipment needed to perform experiments.
  • Oversees and/or analyzes data using appropriate software, including statistical analyses, and prepares tables/graphs to highlight findings. May include coding in specific software to enable data analysis (e.g. Python, MATLAB, R, ImageJ, VBA/Excel).
  • Maintains instrumentation.
  • Anticipates full scope of project goals and organizes steps to meet those goals.
  • Presents and communicates findings/analyses and any associated issues/solutions to peer groups, managers, and/or customers; makes recommendations for project advancement.
  • Troubleshoots and optimizes experiments; communicates issues and solutions to group and managers.
  • Prepares invention disclosures, patent applications, posters, and papers.
  • Works within and/or leads technical teams with minimal input from manager to accomplish project goals, and manages/coordinates work of other team members.
  • Stays abreast of current technological developments in area of expertise, expands knowledge through independent learning.
  • Performs literature and market research on new research or product areas.
  • Works cross-functionally with other departments on projects/products or associated deliverables.
  • Establishes and monitors direct report performance and development goals, assigns accountabilities, sets objectives, establishes priorities, and provides continuous coaching and recognition on performance.
  • Takes on extra roles as needed to support the R&D organization, such as training or lab management activities.
  • Understands, follows and enforces laboratory safety precautions to ensure compliance with company safety policies.
  • Specific duties may vary depending upon departmental requirements.

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Ph.D. in Physical Sciences, Chemistry, Materials Science, Physics, Engineering or related fields with 2 years of independent and productive research or development experience.
  • Master's degree may be considered with at least 8 years of independent and productive research or development experience in relevant field.
  • Minimum of four years laboratory experience with proven hands-on technical abilities.
  • Experience in one or more of the following areas is required: conducting materials, electrochemistry, materials science, interfacial chemistry, inorganic chemistry, polymer chemistry, and/or organometallic chemistry.
  • Experience in analyzing complex scientific data required.
  • Supervisory/management experience is desirable.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Strong scientific fundamentals and experience analyzing complex scientific data.
  • Strong understanding of physical science fundamentals in chemistry, materials science, electrochemistry, and physics.
  • Demonstrated ability to synthesize, manipulate, and characterize conducting, light-emitting materials, and/or polymers, small molecules, and organometallic/inorganic compounds is desirable.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and demonstrated ability to organize and move project tasks forward in an orderly and structured fashion.
  • Project-level understanding and attention to detail with demonstrated commitment to excellence and performance.
  • Demonstrated propensity to be creative, collaborative, proactive, and self-motivated in the execution and completion of assigned tasks.
  • Strong analytical skills with the demonstrated ability to gather and evaluate complex data and information and develop a recommendation and plan of action.
  • Team player with excellent communication (written and verbal) skills regardless of the format (e.g., documents, public speaking situations, presentations, etc.).
  • Excellent organizational, planning, and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple and often changing priorities and issues of varying complexity, while meeting time-sensitive deadlines and deliverables.
  • Proven proficiency in Microsoft Office (i.e., Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
  • Some proficiency in coding/programming is desirable (e.g. Excel, Python, MatLab, ImageJ, COMSOL, R).
  • Ability to establish accountabilities and expectations and manage performance to achieve results.
  • Strong leadership skills with demonstrated knowledge and understanding of staff management practices and processes is desirable.
  • Training and experience with BSL-2 techniques desirable.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • While performing the duties of this job, the individual is frequently required to sit and stand for long periods. The individual is occasionally required to walk; use hands and fingers to operate, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms.
  • Up to 70 % of the day may be spent at a laboratory bench.
  • There are aspects of the position's duties that require a person in this role to work at heights above four (4) feet on occasion and move/lift up to 25 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:
  • Laboratory environment working with chemical reagents and /or materials in fume hood

    • May involve handling air/moisture sensitive reagents or compounds requiring Schlenk techniques.
    • May require purification of materials/compounds using organic solvents and common purification techniques.
  • May work in a laboratory environment with large equipment for material preparation
  • May work in a laboratory environment with chemical reagents and performing some Biosafety Level 2 work
    • May involve handling of BSL-2 materials and organisms including human blood and/or blood products.

COMPENSATION SUMMARY
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $116,600. to $177,800. This salary range represents a general guideline as MSD considers other factors when presenting an offer of employment, such as scope and responsibilities of the position, external market factors, and the candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities, education and experience. Employees may qualify for a discretionary or non-discretionary bonus in addition to their base salary. These annual bonuses are intended to recognize individual performance and enable employees to benefit from the Company's overall success.
BENEFITS SUMMARY
At MSD, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and financial security. In addition to competitive salaries, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with prescription benefits. We provide a 401(k) plan with company matching, flexible spending accounts, and company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance as well as group life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance. Our offerings also encompass paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid holidays, and paid parental leave, along with an employee assistance program. Additional voluntary perks include a fitness club membership contribution, pet insurance, identity theft protection, home and auto insurance discounts, and optional supplemental life insurance.
EEO/AA STATEMENT
MSD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, age, protected veteran status, pregnancy, disability status, or any other protected characteristic. For our full EEO/AA and Pay Transparency statement, please visit here.
Meso Scale Diagnostics uses E-Verify to validate the work eligibility of candidates.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Apply