How much does a Materials Engineer make?
Materials Engineers play a crucial role in many industries. They focus on developing and testing materials for various applications. The average yearly salary for a Materials Engineer is $109,274. This number can change based on experience, location, and specific industry. Companies value their expertise in creating and improving materials.
Some key factors affect salary for Materials Engineers. Entry-level positions often start lower, with an average salary around $42,000. With more experience, salaries rise significantly. For instance, an engineer with 10-19 years of experience might earn up to $160,545 per year. Companies in high-tech industries or research often offer higher pay. The data shows that salaries can vary, but the field offers good earning potential.
What are the highest paying cities for a Materials Engineer?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $134,787
In San Jose, working in materials science offers a dynamic environment. Tech companies like Intel and Apple drive innovation. The city supports a robust career in materials engineering.
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Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $130,920
Tucson offers a thriving job market for materials engineers. Companies like Raytheon and Airbus value expertise here. The city's tech sector continues to grow.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $127,725
In Washington, DC, a materials engineer works with both private firms and government agencies. Companies like Lockheed Martin and General Dynamics offer diverse opportunities. The job market is competitive and rewarding.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $124,825
Seattle has a growing tech scene, making it a great place for materials engineers. Firms like Boeing and Microsoft provide exciting projects. The city’s innovation culture is a big plus.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $122,094
Denver offers a vibrant atmosphere for materials engineers. Companies such as Lockheed Martin and Ball Aerospace need skilled professionals. The city’s cost of living is moderate.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $117,309
Los Angeles is home to many opportunities for materials engineers. Aerospace firms like Boeing and Northrop Grumman provide dynamic work. The city’s diverse industries offer a broad career path.
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Huntsville, AL
Average Salary: $111,356
Huntsville boasts a strong aerospace industry, ideal for materials engineers. Companies like NASA and Boeing have significant roles. The city provides a friendly, community-focused environment.
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Wichita, KS
Average Salary: $108,378
Wichita is a hub for aviation, perfect for materials engineers. Companies like Boeing and Spirit AeroSystems offer solid career opportunities. The city is known for its welcoming atmosphere.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $103,259
San Diego is an excellent place for materials engineers, with strong tech and defense sectors. Companies like Qualcomm and General Atomics are hiring. The city offers a great quality of life.
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Greensboro, NC
Average Salary: $95,669
Greensboro offers a balanced work-life style for materials engineers. Companies like Volvo and IBM present valuable opportunities. The city's growing industries make it a good place to work.
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What are the best companies a Materials Engineer can work for?

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Apple
Average Salary: $206,439
Apple offers exciting roles for Materials Engineers to work on cutting-edge technology. They design and test new materials for products like iPhones and MacBooks. Apple operates in several locations, including Cupertino, California, and Austin, Texas.
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Amazon.com
Average Salary: $154,178
Amazon provides opportunities for Materials Engineers to innovate in packaging and product development. They focus on creating materials that improve durability and cost-efficiency. Amazon has facilities in Seattle, Washington, and many other cities across the U.S.
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Raytheon
Average Salary: $127,417
Raytheon seeks Materials Engineers to work on defense and aerospace projects. They design materials that withstand extreme conditions. Raytheon has offices in several states, including Massachusetts and Virginia.
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Tesla
Average Salary: $124,979
At Tesla, Materials Engineers play a key role in developing sustainable energy solutions. They work on materials for electric vehicles and batteries. Tesla operates in multiple locations, including Palo Alto, California, and Fremont, California.
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Blue Origin
Average Salary: $124,001
Blue Origin offers challenging roles for Materials Engineers in space exploration. They develop materials for spacecraft and rocket engines. Blue Origin is based in Kent, Washington.
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General Atomics
Average Salary: $122,841
General Atomics provides opportunities for Materials Engineers to work on advanced defense technologies. They focus on creating materials for unmanned aircraft. General Atomics has offices in San Diego, California.
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Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $120,003
Northrop Grumman seeks Materials Engineers to design materials for aerospace and defense applications. They work on projects that enhance national security. The company operates in various locations, including Virginia and California.
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Belcan
Average Salary: $117,619
Belcan offers diverse roles for Materials Engineers in aerospace and defense. They work on advanced material technologies. Belcan has offices in multiple states, including Maryland and Virginia.
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Boeing
Average Salary: $109,575
Boeing provides opportunities for Materials Engineers to innovate in aviation and defense. They design materials for aircraft and spacecraft. Boeing operates in Seattle, Washington, and other locations.
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Naval Nuclear Laboratory
Average Salary: $107,269
The Naval Nuclear Laboratory offers roles for Materials Engineers to develop materials for nuclear propulsion. They focus on ensuring safety and efficiency. This laboratory is located in Washington, D.C.
How to earn more as a Materials Engineer?
A Materials Engineer works with various materials to design new products. Earning more in this role often depends on a few key factors. Increasing skills and experience leads to higher pay. Specializing in a niche area can also boost earnings. Networking within the industry helps discover more opportunities. Taking on leadership roles can increase salary. Staying updated with the latest technology enhances job performance and value.
To earn more, consider the following factors. First, gaining advanced certifications in materials science can set an engineer apart. Continuing education in related fields often pays off. Second, experience in specific industries, such as automotive or aerospace, can lead to higher salaries. Third, developing strong project management skills can help in leading teams and projects. Fourth, mastering computer-aided design (CAD) software increases efficiency. Finally, seeking promotions or moving to companies with higher pay scales can make a significant difference.
- Get advanced certifications in materials science.
- Gain experience in high-demand industries.
- Develop strong project management skills.
- Master computer-aided design (CAD) software.
- Seek promotions or higher-paying companies.



