1

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

... Materials). * Experience as a postdoctoral researcher, research fellow, junior/assistant professor, or senior research scientist. * Recent (last ~5 years) representative publications in the relevant ...

Senior MBSE Systems Engineer

Huntsville, AL ยท On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

Senior Level Education: Bachelor's Degree in a STEM field Security Clearance: Active Secret ... material science, manufacturing, and hypersonic technologies-helping solve some of the nation ...

Lead Manufacturing Engineer

Huntsville, AL ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Senior Manufacturing Engineer - BE-7 & Blue Thrusters Location: Huntsville, AL | Shift: A Shift ... Apply first-principles and materials science knowledge to evaluate design decisions at the physics ...

Lead Manufacturing Engineer

Huntsville, AL ยท On-site

$120 - $155/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Senior Manufacturing Engineer - BE-7 & Blue Thrusters Location: Huntsville, AL | Shift: A Shift ... Apply first-principles and materials science knowledge to evaluate design decisions at the physics ...

New

Lead Manufacturing Engineer

Huntsville, AL ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Senior Manufacturing Engineer - BE-7 & Blue Thrusters Location: Huntsville, AL | Shift: A Shift ... Apply first-principles and materials science knowledge to evaluate design decisions at the physics ...

Senior Automation Mechanical Engineer

Huntsville, AL ยท On-site

$181.63 - $254.27/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

## Senior Automation Mechanical EngineerApplylocations: Central Texas: Huntsville, AL: Denver, COtime ... Apply engineering first principles -- including mechanics, kinematics, and materials science -- to ...

Senior Systems Evaluation Engineer

Huntsville, AL ยท On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Produce high-level strategic communication materials, including executive decision memoranda ... Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a closely ...

Senior Systems Evaluation Engineer

Huntsville, AL ยท On-site

$97K - $133K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Produce high-level strategic communication materials, including executive decision memoranda ... Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a closely ...

Senior Systems Evaluation Engineer

Huntsville, AL ยท On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Produce high-level strategic communication materials, including executive decision memoranda ... Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a closely ...

Senior Data Analyst

Huntsville, AL ยท On-site

$90 - $125/hr

Prepare and update training materials to ensure newly assigned personnel gain an understanding of ... BA/BS required * BS in computer science, engineering, applied mathematics, statistics, or a related ...

New

Senior Structural Engineer

Decatur, AL ยท On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

Material Handling & Processing * Pharmaceutical * Power & Utilities * Process & Manufacturing Job ... A Master of Science or Master of Engineering in Structural is preferred * 10+ Years' experience in ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Materials Scientist information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$40

$46

$56

How much do senior materials scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior materials scientist?

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 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 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 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 Scientific Reviewer - Physics

micro1 AI

Huntsville, AL โ€ข On-site, Remote

$80 - $150/hr

Part-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Role Title: Physics Expert (Postdoc / Junior professor)


Role Type: Contractor


Location: Remote (US, Canada, UK focused)


micro1 is engaging Physics Experts (Postdoc / Junior professor) to participate in a high-impact project supporting a customer in the science and technology sector. In this role, you'll apply your expertise to help train next-generation AI systems. Your work will shape how models learn, reason, and perform through high-quality, real-world input. No prior experience in AI is required โ€” your domain knowledge is what matters.


Scope of Work

  1. Critically evaluate and review physics solutions, mathematical derivations, and theoretical arguments generated by researchers or AI platforms.
  2. Detect errors, unjustified steps, missing assumptions, dimensional inconsistencies, and weaknesses in logic or methodology.
  3. Delineate between substantive scientific issues and stylistic or cosmetic matters, providing technically precise written feedback.
  4. Articulate and document the reasoning behind any identified flaws, ensuring actionable guidance for improvement.
  5. Recognize when correct reasoning can be optimized, and offer suggestions to sharpen or clarify the argument.
  6. Utilize LaTeX, SymPy, Python, and Jupyter to independently verify or counter-check scientific claims as appropriate.
  7. Deliver structured feedback designed to support iterative enhancement of submitted work and project outcomes.


Preferred Qualifications

  1. PhD in physics and an active record of independent research within a specialized subfield (e.g., High Energy/Mathematical Physics, Biophysics/Statistical Physics, Condensed Matter, AMO/Quantum Optics, Gravitation/Cosmology, Quantum Information, or Optical Materials).
  2. Experience as a postdoctoral researcher, research fellow, junior/assistant professor, or senior research scientist.
  3. Recent (last ~5 years) representative publications in the relevant subfield, with arXiv or DOI links.
  4. Advanced proficiency with LaTeX, SymPy, Python, and Jupyter for theoretical modeling and computational validation.
  5. Demonstrated skill in reviewing the work of othersโ€”through peer review, supervision, dissertation committees, or group seminars.
  6. Exceptional written communication skills with the ability to convey nuanced, constructive feedback with technical rigor.
  7. Reliable access to high-speed internet and a computer suitable for rigorous technical work.