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Phd Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

PhD (Engineering or Physical Sciences); or Master's Level Degree and related work experience of 3+ years; or Bachelor's Level Degree and related work experience of 5+ years. * Demonstrated experience ...

PhD (Engineering or Physical Sciences); or Master's Level Degree and related work experience of 3+ years; or Bachelor's Level Degree and related work experience of 5+ years. * Demonstrated experience ...

Vision insurance Position Summary PHD Machining is seeking an experienced and hands-on Operations ... Coordinate with programming, quality, purchasing, and leadership teams to prioritize production ...

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Phd Engineer information

What is a PhD engineer?

A PhD Engineer is an individual who has completed a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in an engineering discipline. This advanced degree signifies deep expertise in a specialized area of engineering, often involving original research and the completion of a dissertation. PhD Engineers typically work in academia, research and development, or advanced industry roles where they contribute to scientific innovation and technological advancements. Their work often includes conducting research, publishing scholarly articles, and mentoring students or junior engineers.

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

To thrive as a PhD Engineer, you need advanced expertise in engineering principles, research methodology, and problem-solving, typically supported by a doctoral degree in an engineering discipline. Familiarity with specialized technical tools, modeling software, data analysis platforms, and sometimes professional certifications are commonly required. Exceptional analytical thinking, innovation, and strong communication skills set top PhD Engineers apart in collaborative and research-driven environments. These competencies are vital for driving technological advancements, publishing impactful research, and leading complex engineering projects.

What are the typical career advancement opportunities for a PhD engineer in an industrial setting?

PhD Engineers in industry often start in research and development roles, where they apply their advanced technical expertise to solve complex problems. Over time, they may progress into senior scientist or technical lead positions, and can also transition into management roles such as R&D manager or director. Career growth is often driven by demonstrated innovation, successful project leadership, and strong collaboration skills. Additionally, PhD Engineers frequently have opportunities to shape company strategy, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to patent portfolios.

What is the difference between Phd Engineer vs Research Scientist?

AspectPhd EngineerResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD in Engineering or related fieldPhD in relevant scientific discipline
Work EnvironmentIndustry labs, R&D departments, manufacturingAcademic labs, research institutions, industry R&D
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, manufacturing firms, engineering firmsUniversities, government agencies, private research firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Phd Engineers and Research Scientists hold doctoral degrees and work in research-intensive environments. Phd Engineers typically focus on applied engineering projects within industry, while Research Scientists often work on fundamental scientific research in academic or government settings. The choice depends on whether you prefer industry application or scientific exploration.

Is a Phd engineer useful in engineering?

A PhD engineer brings advanced technical expertise, research skills, and problem-solving abilities to engineering projects. They are often involved in innovation, development, and complex analysis, making them valuable for specialized roles, research positions, and leadership in technical fields.

What jobs can I get with a Phd engineer?

A PhD in engineering qualifies individuals for advanced roles such as research scientist, university professor, R&D engineer, or technical consultant. These positions often require strong analytical skills, expertise in specialized tools or software, and may involve project management or collaboration in innovative environments.

What cities in California are hiring for Phd Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Phd Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Phd Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Materials & Process Engineer 3 (Citizens)

Prolim Global

Woodland Hills, CA โ€ข On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

PROLIM (www.prolim.com) is currently seeking Materials & Process Engineer 3  for one of our top Client for Location – Woodland Hills, CA

Qualified candidates can directly send your updated resume and contact info via email: jayaprakash.hiremath@prolim.com

Job Description:

We are looking for you to join our team as a Materials and Process Engineer based out of Woodland Hills, CA

What You’ll Get to Do:

• 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 Northrop Grumman and 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 Northrop Grumman locations may be required

• Must comply with Northrop Grumman security, health, and safety policies

This requisition may be filled at a higher grade based on qualifications listed below

This requisition may be filled at either a Principal Level or a Sr. Principal Level.

Basic Qualifications for a 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

Basic Qualifications for a 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

Preferred Qualifications

· Active Top Secret Clearance

· 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

About PROLIM

PROLIM is a leading provider of PLM, IoT and Digital transformation solutions to Global Fortune 1000 companies. With 9 global offices in US, India, and Australia, PROLIM has won 30+ awards and proudly serving over 1200+ customers to innovate and improve their profitability and efficiency. PROLIM was founded in 2005 and is headquartered in Farmington Hills, USA. With the global footprint and expertise in latest technologies, PROLIM can partner with you to speed up your Digital Transformation journey.