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Senior Materials Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

3M

Senior Materials Scientist

Greenwald, MN · On-site

Senior Materials Scientist Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to start and grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it's equally ...

New

3M

Senior Materials Scientist

Maplewood, MN

$124K - $151K/yr

Senior Materials Scientist Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to start and grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it's equally ...

3M

Senior Materials Scientist

Maplewood, MN · On-site

$124K - $151K/yr

Senior Materials Scientist Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to start and grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it's equally ...

Formlabs

Senior Materials Scientist

Boston, MA

If you are a scientist or engineer with experience in polymer development who's excited to break new ground in an industry that's moving at lightning speed, we want you as a Materials Scientist . The ...

Formlabs

Senior Materials Scientist

Boston, MA · On-site

$115K - $142K/yr

If you are a scientist or engineer with experience in polymer development who's excited to break new ground in an industry that's moving at lightning speed, we want you as a Materials Scientist . The ...

Formlabs

Senior Materials Scientist

Somerville, MA

If you are a scientist or engineer with experience in polymer development who's excited to break new ground in an industry that's moving at lightning speed, we want you as a Materials Scientist . The ...

Formlabs

Senior Materials Scientist

Somerville, MA · On-site

$115K - $142K/yr

If you are a scientist or engineer with experience in polymer development who's excited to break new ground in an industry that's moving at lightning speed, we want you as a Materials Scientist . The ...

Eurofins

Senior Materials Scientist

Groton, CT · On-site

We are seeking a highly innovative Materials Scientist with deep expertise in non-traditional solid-form strategies for beyond Rule-of-5 (bRo5) molecules, including PROTACs, RIPTACs, and molecular ...

3M

Materials Scientist

Maplewood, MN

$124K - $151K/yr

Senior Materials Scientist Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to start and grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it's equally ...

3M

Materials Scientist

Maplewood, MN · On-site

$124K - $151K/yr

Senior Materials Scientist Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to start and grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it's equally ...

Bridgestone

Senior Material Scientist

Akron, OH · On-site

The Senior Material Scientist will work in a fast-paced and collaborative environment, developing ... PhD in Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering or a similar degree * Fundamental ...

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Senior Materials Scientist information

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How much do senior materials scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior materials scientist in the United States is $49.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.67 and $50.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Senior Materials Scientists face when working on interdisciplinary projects?

Senior Materials Scientists often collaborate with engineers, chemists, and product designers, which can present challenges such as aligning differing technical priorities and communication styles. Navigating these interdisciplinary teams requires clear communication, adaptability, and a strong grasp of both the scientific and practical aspects of materials development. Additionally, balancing long-term research goals with immediate project deadlines can be demanding, but it also provides opportunities to drive innovation and demonstrate leadership. Successfully managing these challenges can lead to greater responsibility and career advancement.

What is a Senior Materials Scientist?

A Senior Materials Scientist is an experienced professional who researches, develops, and tests materials to create new products or improve existing ones. They analyze the structure and properties of various materials, such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites, to determine how they can be utilized in different applications. Senior-level scientists often lead research projects, mentor junior staff, and collaborate with engineers and manufacturers to solve complex materials challenges. Their work is vital in industries ranging from aerospace and automotive to electronics and healthcare.

What is the difference between Senior Materials Scientist vs Materials Engineer?

AspectSenior Materials ScientistMaterials Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Materials Science or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Materials Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, academiaManufacturing plants, product development, industrial settings
Industry UsageResearch, development, innovationDesign, testing, production processes
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Senior Materials Scientist and a Materials Engineer lies in their focus. Senior Materials Scientists primarily engage in research, developing new materials and understanding material properties, often working in labs or academic settings. Materials Engineers, on the other hand, focus on applying materials knowledge to design and improve manufacturing processes and products. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but their day-to-day tasks and work environments differ significantly.

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

To thrive as a Senior Materials Scientist, you need deep expertise in materials science, chemistry, and engineering, typically backed by an advanced degree (MS or PhD) and substantial research experience. Proficiency with materials characterization tools (such as SEM, TEM, XRD), laboratory information management systems (LIMS), and data analysis software is commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, project management, and effective communication set outstanding candidates apart in this field. These competencies enable the development of innovative materials solutions, foster effective collaboration, and drive successful project outcomes.
More about Senior Materials Scientist jobs
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What are the most commonly searched types of Materials Scientist jobs? The most popular types of Materials Scientist jobs are:
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Senior Materials Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Materials Scientist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,865 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

Senior Materials Scientist

Intellectt INC

Saint Paul, MN • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Senior Materials Scientist
Location: St. Paul, MN
Duration: 06 Months

Job Summary:
Senior Materials Scientist  to support materials characterization and testing for medical device projects in a fast-paced lab environment.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Perform material characterization using techniques like Metallography, Optical Microscopy, SEM/EDS, FTIR, Raman, Microhardness
  • Conduct lab testing and analyze results
  • Prepare technical reports and document experiments (GMP environment)
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define test plans
  • Maintain accurate records in electronic lab notebooks

Required Skills & Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field
  • 1–3 years of experience in materials characterization/testing
  • Hands-on experience with analytical instruments
  • Knowledge of GMP documentation practices
  • Strong problem-solving and technical writing skills
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, changing environment