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Materials Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Applied Materials

Materials Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$147K - $202K/yr

Who We Are Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting ...

SpaceX

Materials Engineer, Materials Laboratory

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

MATERIALS ENGINEER, MATERIALS LABORATORY The Materials Engineer is a self-starter responsible for ensuring the quality, integrity, and usability of data generated across the Materials Lab while ...

Eurofins USA Material Sciences

Materials Analyst, TEM

Milpitas, CA

$30.25 - $37.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

If you're energized by materials science, analytical chemistry, engineering rigor, and solving problems that matter, you'll feel right at home here. Every analysis, every test, and every question ...

Bachem

Materials Coordinator

Vista, CA · On-site

$23.09 - $31.76/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A brief overview The Materials Coordinator handles and controls raw materials including dispensing and sampling operations. Responsible for the safe and efficient transportation of materials to ...

Motive Companies

Materials Engineer

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$38 - $55/hr

Materials Engineer Location: Santa Clarita, CA Pay Rate: $38.00 - $55.00 per hour Industry: Motorsports / High-Performance Engineering A leading motorsports and high-performance engineering company ...

Noblis

Materials Specialist

San Diego, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Material Coordinator/Specialist will process the receipt and movement of material within CMPro and to facilitate flow of material, parts, and assemblies within or between departments in ...

All Weather Aluminum

Materials Lead

Vacaville, CA · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

Materials Lead All Weather Architectural Aluminum - Vacaville, CA 95688 Salary Range $26.00 - $32.00 Hourly Position Type Full Time Category Inventory Position Summary: The Materials Lead is ...

Three Point Solutions

Materials Clerk

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Materials Clerk Client: Medical Device Manufacturing Company Location: Menlo Park, CA 94025 Duration: 6 Months Shift: 1st Shift (5:00 AM - 1:30 PM) Job Summary Operational materials coordination ...

Motive Companies

Materials Engineer

Santa Clarita, CA

$38 - $55/hr

Materials Engineer Location: Santa Clarita, CA Pay Rate: $38.00 - $55.00 per hour Industry: Motorsports / High-Performance Engineering A leading motorsports and high-performance engineering company ...

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All JobsMaterials JobsMaterials Jobs in California

Materials information

See California salary details

$10

$20

$41

How much do materials jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for materials in California is $20.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $21.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a materials specialist do?

Materials specialists are professionals who focus on researching, developing, and testing materials used in manufacturing and production. They evaluate the properties and performance of metals, plastics, ceramics, and composites to ensure they meet design and safety requirements. Their work helps improve product durability, efficiency, and sustainability, and they often collaborate with engineers and designers to select the best materials for specific applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a materials engineer?

To thrive as a Materials Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science, chemistry, and engineering principles, typically supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with materials characterization tools, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and industry-specific certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure are often expected. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective teamwork skills help professionals excel in developing and improving materials. These abilities are critical for ensuring product quality, innovation, and safety across manufacturing, construction, and technology industries.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in materials engineering roles?

Materials engineers often encounter the challenge of balancing performance, cost, and sustainability when selecting or developing materials for specific applications. They must stay updated with rapidly evolving technologies and regulatory standards, which can affect project timelines and material choices. Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams, such as product designers and manufacturing specialists, is essential to ensure materials meet both technical and practical requirements. Effective problem-solving and adaptability are key skills for success in this dynamic field.

What is the difference between Materials vs Material Handler?

AspectMaterialsMaterial Handler
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications varyHigh school diploma; forklift and equipment certifications often required
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, construction, or industrial sitesWarehouses, distribution centers, manufacturing plants
Employer & Industry UsageUsed broadly across industries for raw materials and componentsSpecific role focused on moving, storing, and managing materials
Common Search & ComparisonMaterialsMaterial Handler

Materials refers to raw substances or components used in manufacturing or construction, while a Material Handler is a worker responsible for moving, storing, and managing these materials within a facility. Understanding the distinction helps clarify job roles and expectations in industrial settings.

What can you do with a materials degree?

A materials degree prepares individuals for careers in research, development, and manufacturing of materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites. Common roles include materials engineer, quality control specialist, and product development scientist, often requiring knowledge of testing methods, CAD software, and industry standards.

What are the most commonly searched types of Materials jobs in California?

The most popular types of Materials jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Materials jobs?

Cities in California with the most Materials job openings:

Materials jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,010 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Materials Engineer

Applied Materials

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$147K - $202K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Applied Materials rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 540 rated manufacturers

Job description

Who We Are
Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips - the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that literally connect our world - like AI and IoT. If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world.
What We Offer
Salary:
$147,000.00 - $202,500.00
Location:
Santa Clara,CA
You'll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible-while learning every day in a supportive leading global company. Visit our Careers website to learn more.
At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We're committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go. Learn more about our benefits.
As a Mechanical Engineer, you'll leverage your strong foundation in physics, mathematics, and materials science to process and resolve mechanical problems, design and implement custom mechanical tooling and associated processes, and enable the handling, assembly, and disassembly of parts, components, sub-assemblies, and final assemblies throughout the product life cycle. You'll be responsible for designing, developing, and modifying mechanical engineering layouts, schematics, and specifications. You will oversee manufacturing and installation processes, ensuring adherence to industry standards and regulations-- and you'll coordinate the procurement and assembly of mechanical components and equipment for design projects, identifying sources of critical parts and subsystems to resolve technical issues.
Role Responsibilities:
  • Material/Mechanical Engineer.
  • Identify and troubleshoot a wide range of complex mechanical problems with limited to no supervision
  • Lead or execute engineering projects, including the development of key suppliers
  • Develop, design, or modify engineering layouts, schematics, or drawings/specifications of complex scope
  • Communicate with internal and external customers regarding a wide range of complex mechanical issues for specific projects
  • Implement concepts for a range of complex product issues and solutions
  • Design, develop and implement custom mechanical tooling, fixturing and associated processes; enable the handling, assembly and/or disassembly of parts, components, sub-assemblies, and final assemblies; establish standards across operational processes; serve as a technical expert on specialized projects or programs
  • Generate product specifications
  • Define, coordinate, perform and generate engineering test reports; specify and review engineering documentation; specify or perform complex engineering analysis
  • Clearly communicate complex concepts and influence various perspectives

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree
  • 7-10 years of experience
  • Subject-matter expertise with CAD software, thermodynamics, sheet metal design, material selection, manufacturing methods, GD&T, flow analysis and/or Design for Excellence principles
  • Testing validation & Assembly is a plus

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of the Applied Materials product life cycle, including prototyping, packaging, material selection and manufacturing methods

Additional Information
Time Type:
Full time
Employee Type:
Assignee / Regular
Travel:
Relocation Eligible:
Yes
The salary offered to a selected candidate will be based on multiple factors including location, hire grade, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and with consideration of internal equity of our current team members. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable.
For all sales roles, the posted salary range is the Target Total Cash (TTC) range for the role, which is the sum of base salary and target bonus amount at 100% goal achievement.
Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.
In addition, Applied endeavors to make our careers site accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact us via e-mail at Accommodations_Program@amat.com, or by calling our HR Direct Help Line at 877-612-7547, option 1, and following the prompts to speak to an HR Advisor. This contact is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.

What Applied Materials employees say

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About Applied Materials

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Applied Materials is the global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We're the brain (and the brawn) behind every new technology development--whether it's building semiconductor chips for smartphones and computers, or the underpinnings for robotics, AI and even smart TV display screens. With 27,000 employees in 19 countries, we offer an exciting place to grow and learn alongside some of the best people you'll ever meet. We take deep pride in our Culture of Inclusion, and we celebrate the diverse backgrounds, perspectives and experiences that help us build stronger, more resilient teams. Join us as we innovate to Make Possible a Better Future!

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1967

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