Materials engineers research, design, and develop materials used in a wide range of products and applications. They work with metals, ceramics, plastics, semiconductors, and other substances to create new materials with specific properties for various uses. Job responsibilities include analyzing the properties of materials, testing their strength and durability, developing new manufacturing processes, and ensuring materials meet quality and safety standards. Materials engineers may work in industries such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, and healthcare.
This income data is sourced from the May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. The dataset is updated annually.
Annual Pay Distribution | Salary |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $62,980.00 |
25th percentile | $78,920.00 |
median (50th percentile) | $104,610.00 |
75th percentile | $135,930.00 |
90th percentile | $167,680.00 |
Hourly Pay Distribution | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $30.28 |
25th percentile | $37.94 |
median (50th percentile) | $50.30 |
75th percentile | $65.35 |
90th percentile | $80.61 |
Materials Engineers typically need a bachelor's degree in materials science, engineering, or a related field. Some positions may require a graduate degree for advanced research or specialized roles. While a high school diploma is necessary for entry into a bachelor's program, completing college education with a focus on material properties, processing methods, and applications is crucial for this profession. Additionally, gaining practical experience through internships or co-op programs can be beneficial. Training for Materials Engineers involves a combination of classroom instruction, laboratory work, and hands-on projects. These professionals study the properties of various materials and their applications in industry, focusing on metals, ceramics, plastics, semiconductors, and composites. Typical coursework covers subjects like material science, thermodynamics, mechanical behavior of materials, and manufacturing processes. Training also includes using specialized software for simulations and analysis, conducting experiments, and collaborating on research projects to gain practical skills and knowledge essential for the field.