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Materials Test Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

transpak

Materials Test Engineer II

Hayward, CA · On-site

The Materials Test Engineer III will support the execution of physical tests on packaging materials and packaged products, ensure accurate data collection, prepare test reports and interact directly ...

TransPak

Materials Test Engineer II

Hayward, CA · On-site

$75K/yr

The Materials Test Engineer III will support the execution of physical tests on packaging materials and packaged products, ensure accurate data collection, prepare test reports and interact directly ...

transpak

Materials Test Engineer II

Hayward, CA · On-site

The Materials Test Engineer III will support the execution of physical tests on packaging materials and packaged products, ensure accurate data collection, prepare test reports and interact directly ...

HEICO

Test Engineer

Chatsworth, CA · On-site

TEST ENGINEER LOCATION: Chatsworth, California SHIFT: 6:15 am to 4:45 pm / Monday thru Thurs The ... Ability to understand product process documentation (drawings, schematics, bill of materials, and ...

Heico

Test Engineer

Chatsworth, CA · On-site

TEST ENGINEER LOCATION: Chatsworth, California SHIFT: 6:15 am to 4:45 pm / Monday thru Thurs The ... Ability to understand product process documentation (drawings, schematics, bill of materials, and ...

HEICO

Test Engineer

Chatsworth, CA · On-site

TEST ENGINEER LOCATION: Chatsworth, California SHIFT: 6:15 am to 4:45 pm / Monday thru Thurs The ... Ability to understand product process documentation (drawings, schematics, bill of materials, and ...

EcoSense Lighting

Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

Perform estimates of labor and material required to develop test budgets. * Develop SOWs, Systems diagrams, drawings, parts lists, Engineering Orders, wiring lists, diagrams, schematics, procedures ...

EcoSense Lighting

Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Perform estimates of labor and material required to develop test budgets. * Develop SOWs, Systems diagrams, drawings, parts lists, Engineering Orders, wiring lists, diagrams, schematics, procedures ...

Vortech

TEST ENGINEER

Oxnard, CA · On-site

The Test Engineer will serve as the subject-matter expert for the supercharger test cell, including ... Ability to read and interpret bills of material, technical data sheets, mechanical drawings ...

Toyon Research Corporation

Test Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$125K - $225K/yr

We are seeking a Test Engineer to join our team. This position requires a strong background in ... Conduct cost forecasting analysis for materials and labor of testing units Requirements * Bachelor ...

Toyon Research Corporation

Test Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$125K - $225K/yr

We are seeking a Test Engineer to join our team. This position requires a strong background in ... Conduct cost forecasting analysis for materials and labor of testing units Requirements * Bachelor ...

Toyon

Test Engineer

Goleta, CA

$125K - $225K/yr

We are seeking a Test Engineer to join our team. This position requires a strong background in ... Conduct cost forecasting analysis for materials and labor of testing units Requirements * Bachelor ...

Orbital Industries

Test Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

... hardware engineering with AI-designed material science to achieve breakthrough real-world ... Key Responsibilities Test Rig Operation * Lead day-to-day operation of our tray and rack level ...

Next Matter

Senior Test Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Senior Test Engineer, Solid Rocket Motors & Hypersonic Systems We are seeking a Senior Test ... Working knowledge of safety protocols for energetic materials, ordnance handling, and ...

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All JobsMaterials Test Engineer JobsMaterials Test Engineer Jobs in California

Materials Test Engineer information

See California salary details

$37.5K

$99.4K

$155.9K

How much do materials test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for materials test engineer in California is $99,419.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the role of a materials test engineer?

A materials test engineer is responsible for evaluating the properties and performance of materials used in manufacturing and construction. They conduct tests such as tensile, hardness, and corrosion testing, often using specialized equipment, to ensure materials meet safety and quality standards. Their work supports product development, quality assurance, and compliance with industry regulations.

What are some typical challenges faced by materials test engineers and how can they be addressed?

Materials Test Engineers often encounter challenges such as interpreting ambiguous test results, managing tight project timelines, and ensuring precise calibration of testing equipment. To address these issues, it’s important to develop strong analytical skills, maintain clear communication with cross-functional teams like design and manufacturing, and adhere strictly to quality assurance protocols. Staying updated on industry standards and continually refining testing methodologies also helps in overcoming these common hurdles and ensuring accurate, reliable results.

Are materials test engineers in high demand?

Materials test engineers are in steady demand across industries such as aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing, where quality control and material integrity are critical. Employment opportunities often require knowledge of testing methods, materials science, and relevant certifications, with job growth driven by technological advancements and safety standards.

What does a materials test engineer do?

A Materials Test Engineer is responsible for evaluating the properties and performance of various materials, such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites, to ensure they meet required standards for specific applications. They design and conduct experiments to test characteristics like strength, durability, and resistance to environmental factors. Their work helps determine if materials are suitable for use in products or structures and may involve analyzing test data, preparing reports, and recommending improvements. Materials Test Engineers play a crucial role in industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and construction.

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

To excel as a Materials Test Engineer, you typically need a degree in materials science, engineering, or a related field, along with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Familiarity with laboratory testing equipment, materials characterization tools (such as SEM, XRD), and relevant quality standards or certifications (like ISO 17025) is important. Attention to detail, effective communication, and teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These capabilities ensure accurate testing, reliable data analysis, and successful collaboration with cross-functional teams to support product development and quality assurance.

What is the difference between Materials Test Engineer vs Materials Quality Engineer?

AspectMaterials Test EngineerMaterials Quality Engineer
CertificationsASQ Certified Materials & Corrosion Specialist, NDT certificationsASQ Certified Quality Engineer, Six Sigma
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, testing facilities, manufacturing plantsQuality departments, manufacturing sites, supplier audits
Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, manufacturingManufacturing, aerospace, defense
Primary FocusTesting material properties, failure analysisEnsuring material quality, process improvement

Materials Test Engineers focus on testing and analyzing material properties to ensure compliance and performance, while Materials Quality Engineers concentrate on maintaining quality standards and improving processes related to materials. Both roles are essential in manufacturing industries but differ in their primary responsibilities and focus areas.

What are popular job titles related to Materials Test Engineer jobs in California?

For Materials Test Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Materials Test Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Materials Test Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Materials Test Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Materials Test Engineer job openings:

Materials Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Test Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,419 per year, or $47.8 per hour.

Materials Test Engineer II

transpak

Hayward, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

The job duties listed below describe the general nature of the work; contact your supervisor to clarify specific duties. TransPak reserves the right to change the job or reassign duties as business conditions require.  Job descriptions do not constitute a contract of employment and employment is at-will. Reliable on-site attendance is expected. Reasonable accommodation may be determined through an interactive process with Human Resources.

Seeking a detail-oriented, mechanically inclined Materials Test Engineer to join our testing team. This role is ideal for individuals with testing experience in a Packaging Test Lab, Metrology Lab and has hands-on aptitude and experience with equipment, instruments and test standards related to Materials and Package Test labs. The Materials Test Engineer III will support the execution of physical tests on packaging materials and packaged products, ensure accurate data collection, prepare test reports and interact directly with customers during testing when required.

TransPak offers a competitive salary and compensation package that includes 401k match, Medical/Dental/Vision health plans, and generous time-off plan.

The Materials Test Engineer II will:

  • Independently conduct complex material, package and product testing defined by but not limited to ASTM, ISTA, IEC, and customer defined requirements.
    • Materials testing, to industry specifications.  May include rubber, elastomers, foam, plywood and steel components
    • Package testing, including vibration, shock, compression, environmental and stability tests.
  • Analyze and interpret data to identify deviations and provide insight to customers regarding testing results and recommendations.
  • Work directly with Prototype shop to assist with modifications to package designs.  Work on fabricating test fixtures.  Comfortable with using tooling such as CNC machine, drill-press, and other basic shop tools.
  • Ensure project accuracy and quality through document review, use of standard operating procedures (SOPs), and adherence to company safety policies.
  • Maintain responsive customer communication in email and in person regarding testing services provided, test status, updates, and results.
  • Interpret protocols to design special packaging projects and fixtures as needed to support client testing.
  • Find innovative solutions to complex problems.
  • Work with Lab Manager and Test Lab Coordinator to ensure proper calibration of test systems and instrumentation
  • Assist with training new Test Engineer I
  • Maintain TransPak 5S and various site standards and expectations. 

Requirements for Eligibility

  • B.S. degree in Metrology, Material Science, Packaging or packaging emphasis, Mechanical or Industrial Engineering, or equivalent technical education degree.
  • 3-5 years of previous work experience in packaging, product testing, and/or related industry in a laboratory setting is required. 
  • Experienced with reading and interpreting documents such as protocols, industry specifications (ASTM, ISTA, IEC, and/or MIL-STD), and procedures.
  • Possess a strong work ethic, high level of professionalism, and critical thinking. 
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office suite and general computer literacy.
  • Math skills: Advanced algebra, statistical analysis, and geometry.

Personal / Professional Attributes

  • Fast learner with the ability to communicate clearly.
  • Demonstrate strong accountability and integrity.
  • High focus on customer service.
  • Organized and impeccable follow-through skills.
  • Work collaboratively with colleagues.

Apply