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How much do materials testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for materials testing in California is $21.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $24.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is materials testing?

Materials testing is the process of evaluating the properties and behavior of materials under various conditions to determine their suitability for specific applications. This can involve testing for strength, durability, hardness, flexibility, and other characteristics. The results help engineers and manufacturers select the right materials for their products and ensure safety, reliability, and compliance with industry standards. Common methods include tensile testing, impact testing, and fatigue testing.

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

To thrive as a Materials Tester, you need a solid understanding of materials science, quality control procedures, and data analysis, often supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory testing equipment, industry standards (such as ASTM or ISO), and relevant certifications like ACI or ASNT are typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective communication are critical soft skills in this role. These competencies are essential for ensuring accurate test results, maintaining safety standards, and supporting product quality and compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in materials testing, and how can they be addressed?

Materials testing professionals often encounter challenges such as ensuring the accuracy of test results, managing tight project deadlines, and staying updated with evolving testing standards and technologies. Addressing these issues involves maintaining meticulous attention to detail, continuously calibrating equipment, and participating in ongoing training. Effective communication with engineers and project managers is also vital, as it helps clarify testing requirements and deadlines, ensuring that results are both reliable and timely.

What is the difference between Materials Testing vs Materials Laboratory Technician?

AspectMaterials TestingMaterials Laboratory Technician
CertificationsOften requires certifications like NDT or ASTM standardsMay hold similar certifications, focusing on lab procedures
Work EnvironmentTesting labs, industrial sites, manufacturing facilitiesLaboratories, quality control departments
Job FocusPerforming tests to evaluate material propertiesPreparing samples, conducting tests, recording data
Industry UsageConstruction, aerospace, automotive, manufacturingManufacturing, quality assurance, research labs

Materials Testing and Materials Laboratory Technicians both work in testing environments and require similar certifications. Materials Testing professionals often focus on performing specific tests to assess material properties, while Laboratory Technicians handle sample preparation and data recording. Both roles are essential in quality control and research across various industries.

How to become a materials testing professional?

To become a materials testing professional, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by a degree in materials science, engineering, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions and obtaining certifications such as NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) can enhance job prospects; familiarity with testing equipment and safety protocols is also important.

Is construction materials testing a good career?

Construction materials testing is a stable career that involves evaluating the quality and safety of building materials using tools like microscopes and testing machines. It often requires certifications and knowledge of industry standards, with opportunities in construction, engineering, and quality assurance fields.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Materials Testing jobs?

Cities in California with the most Materials Testing job openings:

Materials Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Testing job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,577 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Technical Planner - Aerospace Materials Testing

Huntington Beach, CA • On-site

Element Materials Technology
Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 120 rated laboratories

Good employer

Paid breaks

Respectful managers

Learn more about Element Materials Technologyexternal

$25 - $35/hr

Other

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Overview
The Technical Planner - Aerospace Materials Testing is responsible for translating complex aerospace customer specifications into actionable testing and machining plans. This includes defining the required material preparation, test sequences, and accurately estimating processing times. Acting as the bridge between the customer requirements and shop-floor execution, the Technical Planner ensures compliance with aerospace standards and on-time delivery of high-quality test results.
Shift: 11am - 7:30pm
Compensation: $25.00 - 35.00/hour + $2.00 Shift Differential
Responsibilities
  • Interpret and translate aerospace customer specifications and drawings into detailed test and machining plans.
  • Define the material preparation steps, including machining, conditioning, and labeling, required before testing can be performed.
  • Identify required test methods (e.g., tensile, fatigue, impact, hardness) and ensure they align with customer and industry standards (e.g., ASTM, ISO, NADCAP).
  • Estimate processing and turnaround times for each job and communicate projected timelines to support quoting and production planning.
  • Collaborate with machining, testing, and quality assurance teams to ensure accurate and timely execution of test plans.
  • Prepare work instructions and support documents to guide technical teams in performing tests as specified.
  • Support internal process improvements by identifying inefficiencies or opportunities to streamline workflows.
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable aerospace quality and safety standards.

Skills / Qualifications
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Materials Science, or related technical discipline preferred.
  • 2+ years of experience in technical planning or coordination within a testing, laboratory, or manufacturing environment, preferably in the aerospace industry.
  • Strong understanding of aerospace materials, testing standards, and manufacturing processes.
  • Proficient in interpreting technical drawings, customer specifications, and industry documentation.
  • Familiarity with testing processes and lab equipment related to metals, composites, and other aerospace-grade materials.
  • Skilled in using ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office tools.
  • Excellent organizational, communication, and analytical skills.
  • Detail-oriented with a strong focus on quality and compliance.

Work Setting:
  • Primarily performed in an office or lab-adjacent environment within a materials testing or manufacturing facility. Regular interaction with shop floor personnel, machinists, and lab technicians is expected.

Physical Activity:
  • Sitting: Frequent, for extended periods while reviewing specifications, entering data, and generating plans.
  • Standing/Walking: Occasional, during collaboration with shop floor teams or when inspecting materials and test setups.
  • Climbing/Stooping/Bending: Minimal to none.
  • Lifting: May occasionally lift light objects (up to 20 lbs), such as test samples, folders, or equipment manuals.
  • Reaching/Handling: Regular use of hands to operate computers, telephones, and office equipment.

Environment:
  • Noise: Moderate, typical of manufacturing or testing environments. Hearing protection may be required in certain areas.
  • Temperature: Typically climate-controlled, but brief exposure to production or machining areas may vary.
  • Safety Gear: May require the use of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) such as safety glasses, steel-toe shoes, or lab coats when entering certain areas of the facility.

Diversity Statement
At Element, we always take pride in putting our people first. We are an equal opportunity employer that recognizes diversity and inclusion as fundamental to our Vision of becoming "the world's most trusted testing partner".
All suitably qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective work related criteria and without regard for the following: age, disability, ethnic origin, gender, marital status, race, religion, responsibility of dependents, sexual orientation, or gender identity or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws.

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