How much does a Materials Engineer make?
Materials Engineers play a key role in many industries, making an important contribution to the development of new products and processes. They earn a good living for their efforts. The average yearly salary for a Materials Engineer stands at approximately $107,478. This number varies based on experience and location. For those in the early stages of their career, salaries may start lower but grow with experience and specialization.
Here are some details about the salary distribution for Materials Engineers:
- 10% earn less than $45,000.
- 25% earn between $45,000 and $74,091.
- 50% earn between $74,091 and $103,182.
- 75% earn between $103,182 and $132,273.
- 90% earn less than $175,909.
What are the highest paying cities for a Materials Engineer?

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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $131,599
In Washington, DC, professionals explore the cutting-edge of materials science, collaborating with government agencies and research institutions. Notable companies like NASA and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) offer exciting career paths.
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Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $128,936
Tucson, AZ, stands out as a hub for materials innovation with a focus on aerospace and defense. Opportunities with Raytheon and the University of Arizona provide dynamic environments for growth and development.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $127,171
San Jose, CA, thrives as a center for tech innovation, offering vast opportunities for materials engineers in the tech industry. Companies like Intel and Apple bring a diverse range of projects, making it a vibrant place to work.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $122,336
Seattle, WA, combines a strong engineering community with the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Materials engineers here work with companies like Boeing and Amazon, contributing to groundbreaking projects.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $118,006
Austin, TX, offers a unique blend of a thriving tech scene and a laid-back atmosphere. Working with tech giants like Dell and IBM, professionals here enjoy a supportive environment for innovation.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $115,750
Denver, CO, provides a blend of outdoor lifestyle and professional opportunities. Materials engineers collaborate with aerospace companies like Lockheed Martin and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $113,950
Houston, TX, stands as a major center for the energy industry, providing numerous opportunities for materials engineers. Professionals work with companies like BP and ExxonMobil, focusing on sustainable solutions.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $109,914
San Diego, CA, offers a perfect mix of innovation and coastal living. Materials engineers work with companies like Qualcomm and the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, driving advancements in various fields.
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Huntsville, AL
Average Salary: $108,633
Huntsville, AL, known as the 'Rocket City', provides an exceptional environment for materials engineers in aerospace and defense. Working with NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, professionals contribute to cutting-edge research.
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Greensboro, NC
Average Salary: $95,669
Greensboro, NC, offers a supportive environment for materials engineers, with companies like IBM and Duke Energy. The city’s growing tech scene provides promising opportunities for career advancement.
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What are the best companies a Materials Engineer can work for?

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Apple
Average Salary: $209,359
Apple offers rewarding careers for Materials Engineers. They work on innovative products and materials technology in locations like California, Texas, and North Carolina. Apple's Materials Engineers improve product performance and sustainability.
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Kleinfelder
Average Salary: $172,790
Kleinfelder employs talented Materials Engineers in engineering and consulting. They focus on infrastructure and the environment. Kleinfelder operates across the U.S. and internationally, with offices in locations like Denver and Houston.
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Raytheon
Average Salary: $139,900
Raytheon offers exciting roles for Materials Engineers in defense and aerospace. They develop advanced materials for military and commercial applications. Raytheon has offices in the U.S., with major hubs in Virginia and Arizona.
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Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $125,981
Northrop Grumman seeks Materials Engineers for defense and space projects. They work on critical technologies for national security. The company operates in the U.S., with key locations in California and Virginia.
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Amentum
Average Salary: $125,196
Amentum provides opportunities for Materials Engineers in defense and government sectors. They support missions with innovative materials solutions. The company has offices across the U.S., including in Virginia and Colorado.
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General Atomics
Average Salary: $122,451
General Atomics offers challenging roles for Materials Engineers in aerospace and defense. They focus on creating advanced materials for military applications. The company operates in California and other locations.
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Tesla
Average Salary: $119,237
Tesla hires Materials Engineers to develop cutting-edge battery technology and materials. They work on sustainable energy solutions in locations like California and Nevada.
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Boeing
Average Salary: $106,845
Boeing offers rewarding careers for Materials Engineers in the aerospace industry. They work on aircraft materials and technologies. Boeing has major operations in Washington State and other locations.
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BWX Technologies
Average Salary: $99,983
BWX Technologies employs Materials Engineers in nuclear power and defense. They focus on materials science and engineering for critical applications. The company operates in Virginia and other U.S. locations.
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Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Average Salary: $95,950
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory offers opportunities for Materials Engineers in national security and scientific research. They work on materials for defense and energy. The lab is located in California.
How to earn more as a Materials Engineer?
Becoming a Materials Engineer means working with different materials to improve products and processes. If you want to earn more in this field, several steps can help. These steps will increase knowledge, skills, and career opportunities. This article explores key factors that can lead to higher earnings for Materials Engineers.
First, gaining specialized certifications can help. Certifications in specific materials or testing methods show expertise. These credentials make an engineer more valuable to employers. Certifications can lead to higher-paying positions. Second, pursuing advanced degrees like a Master’s or Ph.D. can also help. Higher education often results in better job offers and salaries. Continuing education shows commitment to the field and to staying current with new technologies.
Third, gaining experience in high-demand industries can increase earning potential. Industries such as aerospace, automotive, and pharmaceuticals often offer higher salaries. Working in these sectors can lead to more job opportunities and higher pay. Fourth, developing strong problem-solving skills is crucial. Employers value engineers who can find innovative solutions to material challenges. These skills can lead to promotions and salary increases. Lastly, networking within the industry helps. Building connections with other professionals can lead to job openings and salary negotiations. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can open doors to higher-paying roles.
In summary, Materials Engineers can increase their earnings by gaining certifications, pursuing advanced degrees, gaining industry experience, developing problem-solving skills, and networking. These steps can lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries.
- Get specialized certifications.
- Pursue advanced degrees.
- Gain experience in high-demand industries.
- Develop strong problem-solving skills.
- Network within the industry.



