How much does a Materials Engineer make?
Materials Engineers play a key role in developing new materials and improving existing ones. They work in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and electronics. Their work is vital for creating products that are more efficient, durable, and cost-effective. The average yearly salary for a Materials Engineer is around $106,116. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and industry.
The salary range for Materials Engineers can be quite broad. At the lower end, some engineers earn around $46,000 per year. As experience grows, salaries can increase significantly. Engineers with more than 15 years of experience can earn upwards of $189,318 annually. The highest earners in this field make over $203,650 per year. These figures highlight the potential for career growth and financial rewards in this profession.
What are the highest paying cities for a Materials Engineer?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $129,326
In San Jose, professionals thrive in a tech-driven environment. Companies like Intel and Apple offer exciting opportunities. The city's innovation hub makes it a great place to advance your career.
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Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $128,530
Tucson boasts a strong aerospace industry. Working here means collaborating with top firms like Raytheon and Lockheed Martin. The city's vibrant community adds to the quality of life.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $121,252
Seattle is known for its tech giants. Engineers here work with companies like Boeing and Microsoft. The city's progressive culture and natural beauty make it an attractive place to live and work.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $117,590
Denver offers a mix of outdoor adventure and industry. Professionals can find jobs with companies like Lockheed Martin and Ball Aerospace. The city's growing tech scene provides many opportunities.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $116,629
Houston is a hub for energy and aerospace. Engineers here work with companies like NASA and Halliburton. The city's diverse culture and affordable living make it a great place to work.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $113,614
Austin is known for its tech and startup culture. Working here means collaborating with companies like Dell and Tesla. The city's vibrant music scene and outdoor activities enhance the work experience.
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Huntsville, AL
Average Salary: $109,206
Huntsville is a key player in aerospace and defense. Engineers here work with companies like NASA and Airbus. The city's strong community and lower cost of living add to its appeal.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $106,706
San Diego offers a mix of biotech and defense industries. Professionals can find jobs with companies like Qualcomm and General Atomics. The city's beautiful beaches and mild climate make it a desirable place to live.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $99,336
Phoenix is a growing tech hub. Engineers here work with companies like Intel and Honeywell. The city's warm climate and expanding job market make it an attractive place to work.
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Greensboro, NC
Average Salary: $95,669
Greensboro offers a mix of manufacturing and tech industries. Professionals can find jobs with companies like IBM and Volvo. The city's rich history and affordable living make it a great 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: $208,127
Apple offers exciting opportunities for Materials Engineers. They work on innovative projects in locations like Cupertino, California, and Austin, Texas. Apple focuses on creating cutting-edge technology.
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Kleinfelder
Average Salary: $172,790
Kleinfelder provides Materials Engineer jobs with a focus on infrastructure and environmental projects. They operate in various locations across the United States, including Denver, Colorado, and San Francisco, California.
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Raytheon
Average Salary: $135,185
Raytheon is a leading defense and technology company. They offer Materials Engineer positions in locations like Waltham, Massachusetts, and Tucson, Arizona. Raytheon works on advanced defense systems.
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Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $124,661
Northrop Grumman provides Materials Engineer jobs in aerospace and defense. They operate in locations like Falls Church, Virginia, and Redondo Beach, California. They focus on innovative defense technologies.
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Amentum
Average Salary: $123,607
Amentum offers Materials Engineer jobs with a focus on government and defense contracts. They operate in locations like Chantilly, Virginia, and San Antonio, Texas. They support critical national projects.
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Tesla
Average Salary: $123,497
Tesla provides exciting opportunities for Materials Engineers. They work on sustainable energy projects in locations like Fremont, California, and Austin, Texas. Tesla focuses on electric vehicles and renewable energy.
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Boeing
Average Salary: $105,431
Boeing offers Materials Engineer jobs in the aerospace industry. They operate in locations like Seattle, Washington, and St. Louis, Missouri. Boeing focuses on aircraft and defense systems.
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BWX Technologies
Average Salary: $98,520
BWX Technologies provides Materials Engineer jobs in the nuclear and defense sectors. They operate in locations like Lynchburg, Virginia, and Charleston, South Carolina. They focus on nuclear technology.
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Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Average Salary: $96,505
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory offers Materials Engineer jobs in research and development. They operate in Livermore, California. They focus on national security and scientific research.
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Naval Nuclear Laboratory
Average Salary: $94,544
Naval Nuclear Laboratory provides Materials Engineer jobs in the nuclear sector. They operate in Washington, D.C. They focus on naval nuclear propulsion and research.
How to earn more as a Materials Engineer?
Materials Engineers have many ways to increase their earnings. They can focus on gaining more experience and skills. They can also look for opportunities in high-paying industries. Networking and staying updated with industry trends can open up new job opportunities. Seeking promotions and considering advanced degrees can also lead to higher salaries. Each of these steps can help a Materials Engineer earn more.
Here are some key factors to consider:
- Gain More Experience: Working in the field for several years can lead to higher pay. Experience makes an engineer more valuable to employers.
- Specialize in High-Demand Areas: Focusing on areas like nanotechnology or renewable materials can lead to higher-paying jobs. These areas often have more demand and better pay.
- Network and Build Connections: Connecting with other professionals can lead to job opportunities that pay more. Networking can also help find mentors who provide career advice.
- Stay Updated with Industry Trends: Keeping up with the latest developments can make an engineer more competitive. This knowledge can lead to higher-paying jobs and promotions.
- Pursue Advanced Degrees: Getting a master’s or Ph.D. can lead to higher salaries. Advanced degrees can open up more job opportunities and higher-paying positions.



