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Materials Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Thea Energy

Plasma-Materials Scientist

Kearny, NJ · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

We are seeking a highly motivated Plasma-Materials Scientist to join our team, focusing on plasma-facing material development. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in the research and ...

Ionstoragesystems

Materials Scientist I

Beltsville, MD · On-site

$65 - $88/hr

Work with senior scientists to design experiments related to solid electrolyte materials and processes, e.g., coating, casting, sintering, etc. * Conduct and monitor experiments, characterize the ...

3M

Senior Materials Scientist

Maplewood, MN · On-site

$124K - $151K/yr

Senior Materials Scientist Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to start and grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it's equally ...

Leidos

Optical Materials Scientist

San Diego, CA

$107K - $195K/yr

The Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a talented Optical Materials Scientist to support our Emerging Space Systems Division. In this role, you will drive the development of tunable ...

Formlabs

SLS Materials Scientist

Somerville, MA · On-site

Have a solid understanding of the fundamentals of materials science and polymer product development * Hands-on experience in thermo-plastic engineering * Passionate about testing and troubleshooting ...

Formlabs

Senior Materials Scientist

Somerville, MA · On-site

$115K - $142K/yr

If you are a scientist or engineer with experience in polymer development who's excited to break new ground in an industry that's moving at lightning speed, we want you as a Materials Scientist . The ...

Ion Storage Systems

Materials Scientist I

Beltsville, MD · On-site

$77K/yr

Materials Scientist IDescription:Ion Storage Systems is looking for a motivated, team-oriented scientist or engineer to join our Ceramics R&D team and help develop our next-generation solid-state ...

Leidos

Optical Materials Scientist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

The Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a talented Optical Materials Scientist to support our Emerging Space Systems Division. In this role, you will drive the development of tunable ...

3M

Senior Materials Scientist

Maplewood, MN · On-site

$124K - $151K/yr

Senior Materials Scientist Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to start and grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it's equally ...

Vulcan Elements

Senior Materials Scientist

Durham, NC

As the Senior Material Scientist you will own the science connecting the metallic coatings that protect them from corrosion and the characterization work that proves it. This is an R&D role based at ...

New

Purosil LLC

Polymer Materials Scientist

Corona, CA · On-site

We need a visionary polymer chemist and/or material scientist with a track record of success. Are you a creative expert in developing new chemistries, formulations, and products? Do you want ...

SES

Computational Materials Scientist

Woburn, MA · On-site +1

$180K - $200K/yr

This powerful combination of "AI for science" and material engineering enables batteries that can be used across various applications, including transportation (land and air), energy storage ...

Mat3ra

Computational Materials Scientist

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site +1

$90K - $140K/yr

Overview We look for computational materials scientists excited about bridging the gap between materials/chemistry, data science, and computer science to help us develop a software framework for ...

Eurofins

Associate Materials Scientist

Groton, CT · On-site

Solve scientific problems using contemporary Materials Science experimental techniques. * Contribute to the development of new scientific approaches and knowledge within the Materials Science ...

Via Logic LLC

Optical Materials Scientist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$108 - $195/hr

The Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a talented Optical Materials Scientist to support our Emerging Space Systems Division. In this role, you will drive the development of tunable ...

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How much do materials scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for materials scientist 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 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 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 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.

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.

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 work in specialized industries can lead to higher compensation.

Is materials science in high demand?

Materials scientists are in high demand across industries such as aerospace, electronics, and energy due to ongoing advancements in technology and the need for innovative materials. Employment opportunities are expected to grow steadily as companies seek expertise in developing new materials and improving existing ones, often requiring knowledge of laboratory techniques and materials characterization tools.

What do you do as a materials scientist?

A materials scientist studies the properties, structure, and performance of materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites. They develop new materials, improve existing ones, and analyze material failures, often using laboratory equipment and scientific principles to solve engineering problems.
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Materials Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% 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 $123,973 per year, or $59.6 per hour.

Plasma-Materials Scientist

Thea Energy

Kearny, NJ • On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

About Thea Energy:
Thea Energy is leveraging recent breakthroughs in stellarator physics and engineering to create a faster and simpler approach to commercializing fusion energy. The company is reinventing the stellarator using computer-controlled arrays of planar coils thereby replacing the intricate, complex modular magnets required in all other stellarator architectures. Thea Energy is on a mission to create a limitless source of zero emission energy for a sustainable future.
Position Overview:
We are seeking a highly motivated Plasma-Materials Scientist to join our team, focusing on plasma-facing material development. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in the research and development of plasma-surface interactions, with particular emphasis on material survivability evaluation, plasma and heat-induced erosion processes, and plasma contamination effects in fusion-relevant environments. You will work with high autonomy and ownership, and contribute to cutting-edge research and development in Thea Energy's stellarator systems.
Key responsibilities:
  • Contribute to the construction and commissioning of a plasma device and diagnostics for exposing and evaluating plasma-facing material candidates.
  • Collaborate with plasma-material exposure facilities and use materials characterization tools for surface evaluation.
  • Provide technical guidance across team members in plasma device operation, plasma-material performance assessment and experimental planning.
  • Participate in stellarator plasma-facing component operational campaign planning.
  • Utilize computational and simulation tools to perform plasma-surface interaction simulations, thermal analysis, and contribute to multi-physics modeling efforts.

Required Experience & Skillsets:
  • Master's degree in materials science, engineering, applied plasma physics, chemistry, or a related field.
  • Knowledge of basic plasma physics.
  • Experience with vacuum systems.
  • Experience with experimental plasma setups and diagnostics such as industrial plasma sources, RF plasmas, spectroscopic diagnostics, laser-based diagnostics, and electrostatic probes.
  • Experience with surface analysis techniques such as electron microscopy, atomic-scale microscopy, and elemental composition analysis methods (e.g. XPS, EDX, Raman).
  • Experience with one or more of the following: Python, MATLAB, FEA tools, COMSOL, C++, Fortran.
  • Ability to work independently and manage projects.
  • Strong attention to detail
  • A passion for advancing fusion energy to commercialization.
  • Willingness to collaborate with a diverse team of scientists and engineers within the company and externally.

Ideal Experience & Skillsets:
  • PhD in applied plasma physics or a related field.
  • Experience with fusion boundary plasmas and/or low-temperature plasmas.
  • Experience with linear plasma devices.
  • Experience in tokamak or stellarator divertor research.
  • Experience with ERO2.0, TRIDYN, SDTrimSP/TRIM, WALLDYN, or RustBCA.

Company Benefits:
  • Salary range $100,000-$160,000
  • Comprehensive health benefits (e.g. medical/dental/vision)
  • Employee equity stock options
  • 20 days PTO

It's not necessary to meet all of the skillsets outlined above. Please feel free to send us a note and tell us why you would still be a great fit for this role or Thea Energy.
Diversity and Inclusion:
Thea Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a company of diverse backgrounds. By creating a diverse environment, we will bring new ideas and approaches to solving some of the world's hardest (and most important) problems. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, family or marital status, age, disability, veteran's status, or other characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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About Thea Energy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Clean energy semiconductors manufacturing

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Princeton, NJ, US

Year founded

2022

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