How much does a Materials Engineer make?
Materials engineers work with different materials to improve their properties. They make important contributions in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and electronics. Their salaries can vary widely based on experience and location. The average yearly salary for a materials engineer is around $110,144.
Most materials engineers earn between $72,191 and $130,572 per year. This range shows the difference in pay across different experience levels and job roles. Entry-level positions start lower, while senior engineers earn higher salaries. The top earners in this field make over $174,358 annually. Many factors can affect these numbers, including specific industry demands and geographic location. Knowing these figures can help job seekers set realistic salary expectations.
What are the highest paying cities for a Materials Engineer?

-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $140,894
In San Jose, engineers play a key role in tech companies. They work on creating new materials for electronics and software. Companies like Apple and Intel lead in innovation.
Find Materials Engineer jobs in San Jose, CA
-
Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $132,500
Tucson offers a mix of tech and aerospace opportunities. Engineers here focus on creating advanced materials for defense and space. Raytheon and Lockheed Martin are prominent employers.
Find Materials Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $127,725
Working in Washington, DC means collaborating with government agencies. Engineers often develop materials for defense and infrastructure. The Smithsonian and NASA provide unique opportunities.
Find Materials Engineer jobs in Washington, DC
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $124,208
Seattle's tech scene is booming. Engineers here work with companies like Boeing and Microsoft. They focus on lightweight materials and new composites for aerospace and software.
Find Materials Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $119,854
Los Angeles has a vibrant entertainment industry. Engineers develop materials for film and media technology. They also work with automotive companies on new materials for vehicles.
Find Materials Engineer jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
Denver, CO
Average Salary: $119,652
In Denver, engineers benefit from a strong aerospace presence. Companies like Lockheed Martin and United Technologies work on new materials. Outdoor companies also seek innovative materials for gear.
Find Materials Engineer jobs in Denver, CO
-
Huntsville, AL
Average Salary: $112,380
Huntsville is a hub for defense and aerospace. Engineers create materials for missiles and satellites. Companies like Boeing and NASA provide exciting projects.
Find Materials Engineer jobs in Huntsville, AL
-
Wichita, KS
Average Salary: $108,672
Wichita is known for its aircraft manufacturing. Engineers here focus on materials for commercial and military planes. Companies like Boeing and Spirit AeroSystems lead the industry.
Find Materials Engineer jobs in Wichita, KS
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $104,227
San Diego offers opportunities in biotech and defense. Engineers work on materials for medical devices and military applications. Companies like General Atomics and Biogen are key players.
Find Materials Engineer jobs in San Diego, CA
-
Greensboro, NC
Average Salary: $95,669
Greensboro has a mix of manufacturing and tech companies. Engineers develop materials for textiles and medical devices. Companies like Hanesbrands and IBM offer diverse opportunities.
Find Materials Engineer jobs in Greensboro, NC
What are the best companies a Materials Engineer can work for?

-
Apple
Average Salary: $198,200
Apple offers exciting opportunities for Materials Engineers, particularly in its innovation labs and product development centers located in California, Texas, and Washington. Roles often involve cutting-edge research and the development of materials for new products, ensuring Apple maintains its position as a leader in technology.
-
Amazon.com
Average Salary: $146,697
Amazon provides a dynamic environment for Materials Engineers, with roles spread across locations like Seattle, California, and New York. Engineers here work on improving product materials, contributing to the company's success in logistics and technology. It's an ideal place for those passionate about innovation and logistics.
-
Tesla
Average Salary: $128,369
At Tesla, Materials Engineers play a crucial role in the development of electric vehicles and renewable energy solutions. The company, based in California with additional facilities in Nevada and Texas, offers a challenging yet rewarding career for those interested in sustainable technologies.
-
Raytheon
Average Salary: $126,638
Raytheon, with its presence in Massachusetts and California, provides Materials Engineers with the chance to work on advanced defense technologies. These roles are crucial in developing high-performance materials for military and aerospace applications, offering a mix of innovation and security.
-
General Atomics
Average Salary: $125,397
General Atomics, headquartered in California, employs Materials Engineers in its defense and technology sectors. They focus on developing materials for unmanned aerial systems and other advanced technologies, providing a stable and rewarding career in a high-tech environment.
-
Blue Origin
Average Salary: $124,001
Blue Origin, based in Washington, offers Materials Engineers the chance to work on the future of space exploration. Engineers here develop materials for rocketry and space habitats, making a significant impact on the future of space travel.
-
Boeing
Average Salary: $107,681
Boeing, with operations in Washington and other locations, provides Materials Engineers with roles in aircraft development. They focus on creating materials that improve aircraft performance and safety, offering a fulfilling career in the aerospace industry.
-
Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $107,580
Northrop Grumman, based in Virginia with additional facilities in California, employs Materials Engineers in defense and space sectors. They work on developing advanced materials for national security, offering a career with significant impact and opportunities for growth.
-
Naval Nuclear Laboratory
Average Salary: $107,269
The Naval Nuclear Laboratory, located in Washington, provides a unique opportunity for Materials Engineers to work on nuclear propulsion technologies. This role is ideal for those interested in nuclear technology and its applications in naval systems.
-
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Average Salary: $103,053
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, situated in California, offers Materials Engineers a chance to contribute to national security through materials research. Engineers here work on a variety of projects, from materials science to advanced manufacturing, providing a challenging and rewarding career.
How to earn more as a Materials Engineer?
Materials Engineers have many ways to boost their earnings. By focusing on the right skills and experiences, one can significantly increase their salary. Building a strong foundation in specialized areas can open up better job opportunities. Seeking out advanced certifications and continuing education can also lead to higher pay.
Here are five key factors that can help a Materials Engineer earn more:
- Specialized Knowledge: Gaining expertise in areas like nanotechnology, biomaterials, or sustainable materials can set one apart from others.
- Advanced Certifications: Holding certifications such as Certified Materials Scientist (CMS) or Professional Engineer (PE) can lead to higher-paying jobs.
- Work Experience: More experience in the field often translates to a higher salary. Working in high-demand industries can also boost earnings.
- Location: Certain cities and regions offer higher salaries for Materials Engineers. Being willing to relocate can mean a bigger paycheck.
- Networking: Building a strong professional network can lead to job opportunities that offer higher pay.



