ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Materials Testing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

$76.70K - $115.10K/yr

This role will involve testing structures and systems plus analyzing data with a particular emphasis on multi-material assemblies, including fiber-reinforced polymer composite structures. The ...

WSP

Construction Materials Testing (CMT)

Louisville, KY · On-site

$17.75 - $24/hr

We are seeking an entry-level Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Technician (T1) to join our growing team and support field operations on a wide variety of construction projects. Your Impact

WSP

Construction Materials Testing (CMT)

Louisville, KY · On-site

$17.75 - $24/hr

We are seeking an entry-level Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Technician (T1) to join our growing team and support field operations on a wide variety of construction projects. Your Impact

Alaska Testlab

Materials Testing Technician

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

We are currently recruiting Materials Testing Technicians for full time positions during the construction season. This is an opportunity to make a difference in the construction world. Inspection and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsMaterials Testing Jobs

Materials Testing information

See salary details

$9

$22

$31

How much do materials testing jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for materials testing in the United States is $22.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $25.24 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 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 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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

In the field of materials testing, most roles do not typically pay $10,000 a month without specialized training or certifications. High-paying jobs in this area usually require advanced education or extensive experience, but some skilled technicians or inspectors with certifications can earn high salaries, especially in senior or managerial positions. Generally, reaching such income levels without a degree is uncommon in this industry.

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.

More about Materials Testing jobs
What cities are hiring for Materials Testing jobs? Cities with the most Materials Testing job openings:
What states have the most Materials Testing jobs? States with the most job openings for Materials Testing jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Materials Testing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Materials Testing jobs are:
Materials Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Testing job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,181 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Materials Testing Engineer

Materials Testing Engineer

The Pennsylvania State University

On-site

$76.70K - $115.10K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

We are seeking a Research and Development Engineer with mechanical and materials engineering knowledge to join the Polymer Composite Manufacturing team in the Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State with mechanical and materials engineering to join our team in the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University. This role will involve testing structures and systems plus analyzing data with a particular emphasis on multi-material assemblies, including fiber-reinforced polymer composite structures. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with our research and development team to perform solutions and present analytical results. ARL at Penn State University is dedicated to developing innovative solutions to complex national problems, with a primary focus on supporting the U.S. Navy, Department of Defense, and Intel communities.

As an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner, we welcome applications from transitioning military members.

You will:

  • Assist with scheduling testing, tracking, execution of static and dynamic trials to support development and demonstration of emergent metal, composite and hybrid components and systems
  • Contribute to the fabrication of test hardware and fixtures, and testing activities
  • Utilize CAD and other engineering tools to create and model mechanical designs
  • Collaborate with fellow engineers to develop innovative solutions
  • Contribute to proposals, reports and presentations in support of assigned projects and tasks

Minimally requires a Bachelor's degree in an Engineering or science discipline.

Required Skills and Experience include:

  • Solid mechanical engineering background
  • Fundamental knowledge of micro-mechanical design utilizing three-dimensional solid modeling software (e.g., NX and SolidWorks)
  • Creativity, proven good decision making, excellent written and verbal communication skills, capable of meeting stringent schedules, and work effectively in a team environment
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment, lead a team, and work independently

Preferred Skills and Experience include:

  • Abaqus, Python, and MATLAB.
  • Composite materials and corrosion knowledge
  • Familiarity with fatigue or lifecycle assessment methodologies.

Candidates for consideration must submit a resume.

Candidate selected will be subject to a government security investigation. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Employment with the Applied Research Laboratory will require successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen.

ARL at Penn State is an integral part of one of the leading research universities in the nation and serves as a University center of excellence in defense science, systems, and technologies with a focus in naval missions and related areas.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site at www.arl.psu.edu.

**The proposed salary range may be impacted by geographic differential.**

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades is:

$76,700.00 - $115,100.00

Salary Structure - additional information on Penn State's job and salary structure.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster

PA State Labor Law Poster

Penn State Policies

Copyright Information

Hotlines

University Park, PA
Pennsylvania State University logo

About Pennsylvania State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pennsylvania State University, often referred to as Penn State, is a major, public, research-intensive university located in University Park, PA, US. This esteemed institution serves as an important player within the education industry, offering a plethora of academic programs across various disciplines. The university was founded in 1855 with the mission to provide quality education, advanced research, and service to society. Penn State holds firmly to values of integrity, respect, and excellence, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The university is renowned for its research productivity and its high-ranking programs in areas like engineering, business, and education. One notable achievement of the institution is its designation as a "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," demonstrating its commitment to scholarship and discovery.

Industry

Education

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

University Park, PA, US

Year founded

1855

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All Pennsylvania State University Jobs

Apply