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Materials Testing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Materials Special Inspector

Carson, CA

Perform field and/or laboratory testing, observation, and inspection of construction materials (e.g. soils, aggregates, concrete, asphalt, and steel). Communicate with project manager, engineering ...

TERRACON

Materials Special Inspector

Gardena, CA · On-site

$26.70 - $37.50/hr

Perform field and/or laboratory testing, observation, and inspection of construction materials (e.g. soils, aggregates, concrete, asphalt, and steel). Communicate with project manager, engineering ...

TERRACON

Materials Special Inspector

Colton, CA

Perform field and/or laboratory testing, observation, and inspection of construction materials (e.g. soils, aggregates, concrete, asphalt, and steel). Communicate with project manager, engineering ...

TERRACON

Materials Special Inspector

Colton, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $35.50/hr

Perform field and/or laboratory testing, observation, and inspection of construction materials (e.g. soils, aggregates, concrete, asphalt, and steel). Communicate with project manager, engineering ...

Carbon, Inc.

Materials Technician

Sunnyvale, CA

$33.32/hr

Prepare samples for testing, which includes 3D printing, post-processing, and standard specimen preparation. * Testing & Analysis: Set up, run, and record results from routine materials tests ...

SpaceX

Materials R&D Technician

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$35 - $44/hr

MATERIALS R&D TECHNICIAN This individual will be a key team member focusing on daily lab operations ... Perform mechanical testing (tensile, fatigue, compression, etc.) with metals, polymers, or ...

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All JobsMaterials Testing JobsMaterials Testing Jobs in California

Materials Testing information

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How much do materials testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 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 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 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.

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 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 do materials testing professionals do?

Materials testing professionals evaluate the properties and quality of materials such as metals, plastics, and composites through laboratory tests and analysis. They use specialized equipment to assess strength, durability, and compliance with standards, often working in controlled environments and requiring knowledge of testing procedures and safety protocols.

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.
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 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,577 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Materials and Process Engineer 3

Chipton Ross

Woodland Hills, CA • On-site

$106.01/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job Description
Job #218918
Chipton-Ross is seeking a Materials and Process Engineer 3 for a contract opportunity in Woodland Hills, CA.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS (REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE)
This requisition may be filled at either a Principal Level or a Sr. Principal Level.
Principal Material and Process Engineer:
  • 5 years of Engineering experience with a Bachelor's of Science in a STEM discipline preferrable in Materials Science and Engineering; 3 years of Material Science and Engineering experience with Masters; 1 Year with a PhD
  • Engineering experience in aerospace, defense, or high-reliability manufacturing environments
  • Practical knowledge of metallurgy for ferrous and nonferrous alloys, heat treatment basics, corrosion/fatigue fundamentals, and common materials testing methods
  • Hands-on exposure to metallographic sample preparation and basic lab techniques (cutting, polishing, etching, hardness)
  • 2+ years of manufacturing processes (machining, forging, forming, fastening, welding/brazing, plating/coating) and ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications related to metallic materials and processing
  • Active DoD Secret Clearance
  • Ability to work full-time onsite in Woodland Hills

Sr. Principal Material and Process Engineer:
  • 8 years of Engineering experience with a Bachelor's of Science in a STEM discipline preferrable in Materials Science and Engineering; 6 years of Material Science and Engineering experience with Masters; 4 Years with a PhD
  • Engineering experience in aerospace, defense, or high-reliability manufacturing environments
  • Practical knowledge of metallurgy for ferrous and nonferrous alloys, heat treatment basics, corrosion/fatigue fundamentals, and common materials testing methods
  • Hands-on exposure to metallographic sample preparation and basic lab techniques (cutting, polishing, etching, hardness)
  • 2+ years of manufacturing processes (machining, forging, forming, fastening, welding/brazing, plating/coating) and ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications related to metallic materials and processing
  • Active DoD Secret Clearance
  • Ability to work full-time onsite in Woodland Hills

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
  • As an M&P Engineer, you will support definition of engineering requirements to develop, select, or recommend parts, materials, processes, manufacturing technologies, machinery, tools, and automation systems used in product design and manufacturing in accordance with contractual and regulatory obligations
  • Additionally, you will qualify new materials, parts and processes to meet requirements and manage test and audit programs to qualify suppliers to applicable requirements
  • Support engineering design reviews and participate in failure analyses for metallic parts and processes
  • Assist in supplier qualification activities and respond to routine supplier technical inquiries; escalate complex supplier or production issues to senior M&P engineers
  • Perform analyses to characterize performance or determine causes of tool, material, part, or process failures; recommend corrective actions for senior review
  • Coordinate and support lab activities (metallography, hardness, tensile, NDT/NDI) and compile test data for interpretation and disposition
  • Use project management practices to meet cost, technical, and schedule requirements for assigned tasks while incorporating EHS, LEAN, and Quality principles into materials/process work, lab activities, and procedures
  • Support creation and revision of material/process specifications, work instructions, and test plans; ensure alignment with industry requirements
  • Support investigations of non-conformances and supplier deviations; collect evidence, perform basic root-cause analysis, and draft corrective action recommendations
  • Maintain engineering records (test reports, engineering orders) and support configuration control and design reviews as required
  • Communicate technical findings clearly to cross-functional teams and stakeholders
  • Frequent interaction with manufacturing floors, supplier facilities, and testing laboratories
  • Occasional travel to supplier sites, test facilities, and other locations may be required
  • Must comply with security, health, and safety policies

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS (DESIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE)
  • Master's degree in materials science and engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, metallurgical engineering, or polymer engineering
  • PhD in material science or materials engineering
  • Strong desire to mentor and grow employees
  • Expert level first principle engineering knowledge of metals and materials
  • Knowledge of physical and mechanical properties as well as evaluation methods (tensile strength, hardness, fatigue, fracture toughness, creep, stress rupture, SEM, non-destructive inspection, spectroscopy)
  • Detailed knowledge of one or more of the following production processes: forging, casting, forming, coating, plating, heat treating, fusion welding, friction stir welding, EB welding, additive manufacturing, and composite manufacturing
  • Hands-on experience in a high-production manufacturing environment
  • Experience with technical review of materials processing and a sound understanding of the interaction between process variables and the resulting material performance
  • Demonstrated track record of success in a rapidly growing, fast-paced, and highly competitive environment
  • Personality and drive to execute in a scrappy entrepreneurial environment that operates under tight timelines and aggressive schedules
  • Effective written and interpersonal communication skills
  • Capable of interacting with and conveying concepts within all levels of our organization
  • Strong academic foundation coupled with hands on experience

REQUIRED EDUCATION
Bachelor's Degree is required.
School must be accredited.
WORK HOURS
Full-Time 9/80 work week. 1st shift.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
  • Applicants responding to this position will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements by currently possessing the ability to view classified government information.
  • Employment will be contingent on clearing a drug screen and background check. Both must clear prior to start date.
  • Candidates responding to this posting must currently possess the eligibility to work in the United States. No third parties please.

For more information, please apply or contact:
Rochelle Anderson 800.927.9318 x280
randerson@chiptonross.com
Chipton-Ross provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by Federal, State or local law. This policy governs all areas of employment at Chipton-Ross, including recruiting, hiring, training, assignment, promotions, compensation, benefits, discipline, and terminations.
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About Chipton-Ross

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Chipton-Ross, based in El Segundo, California, is a leading provider of staffing and recruitment services in the US. The company is renowned for its specialization in fields like engineering, information technology, aircraft manufacturing, and other technical industries. Founded in 1983, Chipton-Ross has grown to become a recognized name in the national recruitment arena with a reputation for integrity, quality, and excellence in management. The company's mission is to provide cost-effective staffing solutions that allow their clients to maximize the power of their people, enhancing both perspective and productivity.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

El Segundo, CA, US

Year founded

1983

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