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Metallic Materials Process Senior Engineer Jobs

Support welding and joining processes, including evaluation of weld quality, microstructures, and ... Strong background in piping systems, metallic materials, corrosion, and failure analysis.

Materials & Process Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$100K - $165K/yr

Materials & Process Engineer Job Location: Torrance, CA Salary: $100,000-$165,000/yr DOE Stellant ... Strong knowledge of metals, joining methods, and metallurgical concepts, with hands-on experience ...

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Metallic Materials Process Senior Engineer information

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$75K

$121.1K

$170.5K

How much do metallic materials process senior engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for metallic materials process senior engineer in the United States is $121,116.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,000.00 and $134,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges a Metallic Materials Process Senior Engineer might face when developing new manufacturing processes?

A Metallic Materials Process Senior Engineer often encounters challenges such as optimizing processes for both performance and cost while meeting strict quality and safety standards. Adapting to new alloy compositions or advanced manufacturing methods may require extensive testing and troubleshooting. Additionally, coordinating with cross-functional teams—including design, quality assurance, and production—demands strong communication and project management skills. Staying current with technological advancements and industry regulations is also essential to ensure continuous improvement and compliance.

What is the difference between Metallic Materials Process Senior Engineer vs Metallurgical Engineer?

AspectMetallic Materials Process Senior EngineerMetallurgical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science or Metallurgy, certifications may varyBachelor's or Master's in Metallurgical Engineering or Materials Science
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, R&D labsResearch labs, manufacturing, consulting firms
Industry UsageDesigning and optimizing metallic manufacturing processesAnalyzing metallurgical properties, failure analysis, process improvement

While both roles involve working with metals and materials, the Metallic Materials Process Senior Engineer primarily focuses on developing and optimizing manufacturing processes for metallic materials, often in industrial settings. In contrast, the Metallurgical Engineer typically emphasizes analyzing metallurgical properties, failure analysis, and research. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but their daily tasks and industry applications differ slightly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Metallic Materials Process Senior Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Metallic Materials Process Senior Engineer, you need a solid background in metallurgy, materials science, and process engineering, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and several years of industry experience. Proficiency with metallurgical analysis tools, process simulation software (such as Thermo-Calc or ANSYS), and familiarity with quality management systems and industry standards are essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, project management skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure the development and optimization of metal processes, resulting in high-quality products and efficient manufacturing operations.

What does a Metallic Materials Process Senior Engineer do?

A Metallic Materials Process Senior Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and overseeing processes used to produce metallic materials and components. They work on improving manufacturing techniques, ensuring quality standards, and troubleshooting production issues related to metals. This role often involves collaborating with design, quality, and production teams to select appropriate materials and processes for specific applications. Additionally, they may conduct research to implement new technologies and ensure compliance with industry regulations.
Infographic showing various Metallic Materials Process Senior Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,116 per year, or $58.2 per hour.

Materials Analysis Engineer - Metallurgist

Vulcan Elements

Durham, NC

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Vulcan Elements is manufacturing American rare-earth permanent magnets for a secure, resilient future. With a focus on national security and economic resiliency, we serve critical industries such as defense, aerospace, and automotive powering a high-technology future. Vulcan Elements is building a team of ambitious professionals committed to Mission Focus, Technical Excellence and Transparency.

As a Materials Analysis Engineer – Metallurgist you will serve as the primary metallurgical resource within our analysis and testing group. This is a senior technical role for an experienced industry metallurgist who brings deep, broad expertise in metallic materials and processes. The ideal candidate is equally comfortable interpreting microstructure at the microscope and fabricating a fixture on the bench — someone who combines strong metallurgical judgment with the mechanical aptitude to build, repair, and improve laboratory infrastructure hands-on.

Responsibilities

  • Serve as the primary metallurgical resource for the analysis and testing group, providing expert guidance on materials behavior, failure analysis, and process-related questions.
  • Develop analysis and testing plans in conjunction with other members of the group to support process development, quality investigations, and product qualification.
  • Assist with interpretation and analysis of microstructure, plating quality, coating integrity, and other metallurgical attributes using optical microscopy, SEM/EDS, and related techniques.
  • Report findings clearly and concisely to technical and non-technical audiences, with appropriate use of micrographs, data, and metallurgical context.
  • Develop and implement improvements to laboratory facility, equipment, and test methods.
  • Design and build simple mechanical fixtures, electronic controls, or other tooling to support laboratory operations and testing workflows.
  • Perform basic repairs and maintenance on laboratory equipment and facilities as needed.
  • Document methods, results, and deviations in a structured manner consistent with quality system requirements.

Responsibilities and tasks outlined are not exhaustive and may change as determined by the needs of the business.

Qualifications

  • B.S. or higher in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, or Metallurgy. No substitute degrees will be considered.
  • Approximately 10 years of industry experience as a metallurgist or materials and processes (M&P) engineer. Academic experience will not be considered as a substitute for industry experience.
  • Broad expertise in metallic materials and processes, with strong working knowledge in at least three of the following areas: heat treatment, surface treatment, plating, mechanics of materials, materials testing, and metals processing.
  • Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and ability to perform hands-on, self-directed work including creating simple electronic or mechanical controls and performing basic repairs on laboratory equipment or facilities.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present metallurgical findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Must be a U.S. Person due to required access to U.S. export-controlled information or facilities.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with metallographic preparation and microstructural analysis using optical microscopy and SEM/EDS.
  • Experience in defense, aerospace, or automotive materials and processes environments.
  • Familiarity with powder metallurgy, sintered materials, or permanent magnet manufacturing.
  • Experience working within a quality management system such as AS9100, ISO 17025, or NADCAP.
  • Familiarity with failure analysis methodologies and root cause investigation.
  • Experience with corrosion evaluation, electrochemistry, or protective coating assessment.