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Senior Materials Scientist Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

The Senior Scientist will assist in quantum information science (QIS)-based research being ... Presenting complex material to non-technical governmental and military audiences. * Provide regular ...

The Senior Scientist will assist in quantum information science (QIS)-based research being ... Presenting complex material to non-technical governmental and military audiences. * Provide regular ...

The Senior Scientist will assist in quantum information science (QIS)-based research being ... Presenting complex material to non-technical governmental and military audiences. * Provide regular ...

Senior Scientist

Huntsville, AL

$90K - $123K/yr

This role requires considerable knowledge of energetic materials chemistry, significant experience in rocket motor manufacturing, and demonstrated effectiveness as the principal investigator on ...

Senior Scientist

Huntsville, AL ยท On-site

$129K - $191K/yr

This role requires considerable knowledge of energetic materials chemistry, significant experience in rocket motor manufacturing, and demonstrated effectiveness as the principal investigator on ...

Performs work under the guidance of a senior engineer/scientist. Performs assignments designed to develop professional working knowledge and abilities requiring application of standard techniques ...

Senior Structural Analysis Engineer Company: The Boeing Company The Boeing Company is seeking a ... Material Sciences). * 5+ years of experience do you have with structural analysis methods and ...

Senior Structural Analysis Engineer Company: The Boeing Company The Boeing Company is seeking a ... Material Sciences). * 5+ years of experience do you have with structural analysis methods and ...

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Senior Materials Scientist information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$40

$46

$56

How much do senior materials scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior materials scientist in Decatur, AL is $46.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.84 and $47.79 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.
What are popular job titles related to Senior Materials Scientist jobs in Decatur, AL? For Senior Materials Scientist jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Materials Scientist jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Materials Scientist jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Senior Materials Scientist jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Senior Materials Scientist job openings:
Senior Research Scientist/Engineer

Senior Research Scientist/Engineer

Nou Systems Inc

Huntsville, AL โ€ข On-site

$110K - $200K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

nou Systems, Inc. (nSI) is here to solve diverse and challenging technical problems in an enjoyable, stimulating environment, while providing unsurpassed value to our customers.

We are pleased to announce the opening for a Senior Research Scientist/Engineer who will join our Research and Development team in Huntsville, Alabama and become part of our rapidly growing technology company operating in missile defense, cybersecurity, test range modernization, biotechnology, and space control marketspaces. You will be part of a team known for deploying new products for military and commercial use.


Hereโ€™s what youโ€™ll be doing:

Youโ€™ll be supporting and leading projects that develop and exploit new technologies, executing multiple proof-of-concept type projects in quick succession. You will be expected to participate in securing funding through proposals to the Government and private funding sources. As part of this process, you will become intimately familiar with (a) multiple technology areas, (b) intellectual property and how to protect it, and (c) the process by which technologies are evaluated for their potential to generate products.

This position is considered a mid-level to senior position. You will need to be able to demonstrate an exceptional degree of technical ingenuity, intellectual curiosity, aptitude for building (as opposed to simply analyzing or theorizing), clear communication, and a track record of successful business development/bid and proposal efforts. You will be a self-starter and able to demonstrate a history of seeking out, identifying, and capitalizing on learning opportunities. In short, nSI is searching for 'Macgyvers'.


Hereโ€™s what youโ€™ll need:

You must have a bachelorโ€™s degree at minimum, in a scientific or engineering field such as Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Mathematics, Aerospace Engineering, or similar. Also, weโ€™re looking for someone with seven years of full-time professional experience in an engineering role. Finally, you must possess or have the ability to obtain an active Secret Security Clearance. Lacking any one of these disqualifies you from this job.

You also must have:

  • A high degree of technical competence in one or more of the following areas:
    1. Electrical engineering
    2. Software development (backend; one or more of Python/C++/C)
    3. Machine learning (or a combination of mathematics and computer programming)
    4. Mechanical engineering
    5. Materials Science
  • Outstanding demonstrated technical competence and ingenuity in one of the five areas identified above (EE, software dev, ML, MechE, or Mat Sci) [Must be able to quickly understand, apply, and adapt challenging technical concepts without a walkthrough]
  • Exceptional aptitude for building tangible products [Must be able to demonstrate this by a portfolio of work in some capacity]
  • Strong intellectual curiosity [You will be asked to leave your comfort zone early and often, so we're looking for evidence that you've done this on your own before]
  • Preference for self-directed work [You'll work with our top technical talent, but we're looking for evidence that when given a problem to solve, you know how to identify and execute the means for solving it.]
  • Demonstrated history of effective collaboration [You'll be working with multiple other people as part of a variety of integrated teams and must be capable of both shouldering work yourself and leading projects with little guidance. This implies other things like good communication, planning and coordination, and 'soft' skills.]
  • Demonstrated history of successful business development / bid and proposal / commercialization efforts [You'll be in a position to lead new efforts that originate from our proof-of-concept type work, and should be semi-comfortable and fully excited about doing so]

Other qualifications we hope you bring to the table:

  • Demonstrated ability to identify and parse relevant papers from academic literature. Previous experience as a published author in the academic literature is preferred
  • Demonstrated ability to architect and execute proof-of-concept experiments
  • Experience working in a startup environment

Other specifics about this position:

Contingent upon contract award? No, this position is not contingent upon contract award.

Remote work option? Yes, this position does have the option for remote work.

Who is nou (pronounced โ€˜newโ€™) Systems?

nou Systems, Inc. (or nSI for short) is a rapidly growing technology company that cares about its people located all over the globe. Our people are passionate about missile defense, cybersecurity, test range modernization, and all-things space and space-market related. We offer significant advancement and personal career development opportunities within our dynamic high-tech company.

Although we are a rapidly growing company, winning the Inc. 5000 List as one of Americaโ€™s fastest-growing private companies from 2017โ€“2021, our culture is firmly established in treating our employees like family. See some words our employees use to describe our culture with the attached Culture Cloud.

Benefits of working at nSI

nou Systems, Inc. offers a comprehensive, total rewards package that includes competitive compensation and diverse benefits that reflect our company culture of service, excellence, and a supportive work environment.

Other specific benefits include:

  • Competitive Wages*
  • Medical, Rx, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Medical plan with Health Savings Account eligibility
  • Generous company-funded Basic Life Insurance
  • Company-funded Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Optional Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
  • Personal Time Off, Annual Leave, and Paid Federal Holidays
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Tuition Reimbursement for ongoing training, continuing education, or advanced degree programs
  • Personal Development, Learning Opportunities, & Lunch-n-Learns
  • Opportunities for Advancement
  • Skills Development & Certifications
  • Employee Referral Bonus Program
  • Corporate Sponsored Events & Community Outreach
  • Remote-work friendly
  • If you work from the corporate office โ€“ Fully stocked breakrooms!!!

*Final compensation for this position is determined by a variety of factors, such as a candidateโ€™s relevant work experience, skills, certifications, and geographic location.


nSI is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Employment opportunities at nSI are based upon a candidateโ€™s qualifications and capabilities to perform the essential functions of a particular job and are free from discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law. For our complete EEO/AA and Pay Transparency statement, please visit www.nou-systems.com/workingatnou. U.S. citizenship is required for most positions.