How much does a Materials Technician make?
Materials Technicians have an important role in various industries, ensuring that materials meet certain specifications and quality standards. Their expertise in handling and testing materials makes them valuable to many companies. The average yearly salary for a Materials Technician is around $45,708. This figure offers a good baseline for those considering this career path.
Materials Technicians can expect their salaries to vary based on experience, location, and specific industry. For instance, those with more experience and working in larger cities often earn more. Entry-level technicians can start at around $33,000 a year. As experience grows, salaries can reach up to $76,686 annually. This range provides an optimistic outlook for those who plan to grow within this profession. The highest-paid 10% of Materials Technicians earn over $64,771 a year, highlighting the potential for growth and advancement.
What are the highest paying cities for a Materials Technician?

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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $56,814
In San Diego, professionals in materials science contribute to the tech and biotech industries. Companies like Qualcomm and Illumina offer opportunities. The coastal location provides a pleasant work environment.
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Wichita, KS
Average Salary: $55,972
Wichita's materials experts support the aircraft manufacturing sector. Companies such as Boeing and Spirit AeroSystems provide diverse roles. The city's growing tech scene adds to the appeal.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $55,494
Los Angeles offers a vibrant job market for materials specialists. The entertainment industry and aerospace companies like Northrop Grumman create unique opportunities. The city's diverse culture enhances the work experience.
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Milwaukee, WI
Average Salary: $48,744
Milwaukee boasts a strong manufacturing base, ideal for materials professionals. Companies such as Miller Electric and Johnson Controls offer solid career paths. The city's rich history adds to its charm.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $46,456
Phoenix provides a growing market for materials scientists. Companies like Honeywell and Raytheon offer innovative roles. The warm climate makes outdoor activities a popular pastime.
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Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $45,781
Columbus's job market for materials experts benefits from its diverse industries. Companies such as Huntington Ingalls and Nationwide Insurance offer good prospects. The city's affordable living costs are a plus.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $45,571
Colorado Springs offers a mix of aerospace and outdoor recreation opportunities. Companies like Lockheed Martin and United States Air Force Academy provide exciting roles. The scenic surroundings make it a desirable place to work.
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St. Louis, MO
Average Salary: $45,045
St. Louis's materials science professionals find opportunities in manufacturing and healthcare. Companies such as Boeing and SSM Health offer stable positions. The city's rich history and culture add to the experience.
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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $44,320
Dallas has a dynamic job market for materials experts. Companies such as Texas Instruments and ExxonMobil provide diverse roles. The city's vibrant cultural scene enhances the quality of life.
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Tuscaloosa, AL
Average Salary: $43,695
Tuscaloosa offers a welcoming environment for materials scientists. The University of Alabama and local manufacturing firms provide good opportunities. The city's friendly atmosphere makes it an appealing place to live and work.
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What are the best companies a Materials Technician can work for?

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Select Specialty Hospital
Average Salary: $45,179
Select Specialty Hospital offers Materials Technician jobs with opportunities to work across various locations in the United States. Technicians here support operations with materials management and quality control. Locations include Ohio, Texas, and Pennsylvania, providing diverse experiences and career growth.
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State of Missouri
Average Salary: $43,901
The State of Missouri provides Materials Technician jobs with a focus on public sector work. Technicians here handle materials testing, inventory management, and compliance with state regulations. Opportunities exist in cities like Jefferson City, St. Louis, and Kansas City, offering stability and public service.
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CVS Health
Average Salary: $43,788
CVS Health offers Materials Technician jobs with a focus on pharmacy and healthcare materials. Technicians play a key role in ensuring the quality and safety of pharmaceutical supplies. Locations include major cities across the U.S., providing a dynamic work environment with great benefits.
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Geo-Technology Associates, Inc.
Average Salary: $43,089
Geo-Technology Associates, Inc. provides Materials Technician jobs in the geotechnical and environmental sectors. Technicians support field and laboratory work, focusing on soil and material analysis. Locations include California, Texas, and New York, offering diverse environmental projects.
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Colliers Engineering & Design
Average Salary: $42,824
Colliers Engineering & Design offers Materials Technician jobs in the engineering and construction fields. Technicians here focus on materials testing and quality assurance for construction projects. Opportunities span across major cities in the U.S., providing robust professional development.
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Hillis-Carnes Engineering Associates, Inc.
Average Salary: $39,441
Hillis-Carnes Engineering Associates, Inc. provides Materials Technician jobs with a focus on civil and environmental engineering. Technicians support projects in areas like water resources and infrastructure. Locations include Texas and California, offering a mix of urban and rural projects.
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ECS Limited
Average Salary: $38,746
ECS Limited offers Materials Technician jobs in the engineering consulting sector. Technicians here assist with materials testing, analysis, and project support. Locations include Virginia and Maryland, providing opportunities in both government and private sector projects.
How to earn more as a Materials Technician?
A Materials Technician can increase their earning potential by focusing on certain key areas. First, gaining specialized certifications can lead to higher salaries. Certifications in areas like quality control or materials management can make a candidate more valuable. Companies often pay more for these skills because they are in high demand.
Another way to earn more is by gaining experience in various industries. A Materials Technician with experience in different sectors can command higher pay. This is because they bring a diverse skill set to the table. An employer benefits from this wide-ranging knowledge, and the technician can negotiate a better salary. Seek opportunities in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and technology to broaden skill sets.
Further, taking on leadership roles can increase earnings. Technicians who move into supervisory or management positions often see a significant pay raise. These roles involve overseeing teams, managing projects, and making important decisions. They require a higher level of responsibility, which employers are willing to pay for. Candidates should aim for roles that offer growth and the chance to lead others.
Consider these steps to boost income:
- Get specialized certifications.
- Work in different industries.
- Seek leadership opportunities.
- Pursue continuous education.
- Network within the industry.



