How much does a Materials Technician make?
A Materials Technician focuses on managing and testing materials used in various industries. People in this role typically earn a competitive salary. The average yearly salary for a Materials Technician stands at around $45,774. This average helps job seekers understand what to expect as they look for opportunities in this field.
The salary range for a Materials Technician varies. Some earn as little as $34,000, while others can make more than $75,000 per year. Most technicians earn between $41,455 and $60,091 annually. This range gives job seekers a broad understanding of potential earnings based on different factors like experience and location. Such information is valuable for those planning their career path in this field.
What are the highest paying cities for a Materials Technician?

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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $55,697
Working in materials testing in Los Angeles offers diverse opportunities across various industries. You might find roles in aerospace, manufacturing, or tech companies. The city's large job market allows for varied career paths.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $54,802
In San Diego, materials specialists often support military and defense projects. The local economy thrives on innovation, providing a dynamic environment for testing and quality control. Major companies like BAE Systems are prominent here.
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Milwaukee, WI
Average Salary: $48,707
Milwaukee's manufacturing sector offers many opportunities for materials technicians. This city is known for its production of machinery and metal products. Companies like Harley-Davidson and Johnson Controls present strong career paths.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $46,253
Phoenix provides a growing market for materials experts. The city’s expanding tech and manufacturing sectors need skilled technicians. Opportunities in quality assurance and product testing are abundant here.
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Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $45,859
Columbus offers a balanced mix of industrial and tech opportunities for materials specialists. Companies like Ohio State University and Battelle bring innovative projects. The city’s diverse economy ensures various roles in testing and analysis.
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Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $45,618
Nashville’s job market for materials technicians includes roles in music equipment and medical device manufacturing. The city’s growth in healthcare and entertainment sectors creates a unique mix of opportunities.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $45,572
Denver’s outdoor lifestyle complements its strong job market for materials testers. Companies like Lockheed Martin and Ball Aerospace rely on skilled professionals. The city’s tech scene is also expanding, offering varied career options.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $45,533
Colorado Springs offers a blend of aerospace and defense opportunities for materials specialists. Major employers like the U.S. Air Force Academy and Northrop Grumman need experts in testing and quality control.
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St. Louis, MO
Average Salary: $45,158
St. Louis’s job market includes diverse roles for materials technicians in automotive and manufacturing. Companies like Boeing and Siemens provide a stable environment for career growth in quality assurance and product testing.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $44,718
Austin's booming tech industry offers many opportunities for materials testers. The city’s diverse economy includes roles in electronics and software. Companies like Dell and Apple create a dynamic work environment for testing and analysis.
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What are the best companies a Materials Technician can work for?

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Ninyo & Moore
Average Salary: $50,000
Ninyo & Moore offers rewarding Materials Technician roles in California, with a focus on quality and innovation. This company provides a collaborative environment for professionals to grow and contribute to various construction projects.
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Select Specialty Hospital
Average Salary: $44,576
Select Specialty Hospital hires Materials Technicians who can work across multiple locations in the Midwest. This company values skilled technicians who ensure material integrity in their healthcare facilities.
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Geo-Technology Associates, Inc.
Average Salary: $44,072
Geo-Technology Associates, Inc. provides diverse opportunities for Materials Technicians in Texas and beyond. This company specializes in geotechnical and environmental services, offering a dynamic workplace.
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CVS Health
Average Salary: $43,677
CVS Health employs Materials Technicians in various states. This company is dedicated to health and wellness, providing materials needed for pharmacies and retail stores nationwide.
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State of Missouri
Average Salary: $43,163
The State of Missouri hires Materials Technicians for roles across the state. This company focuses on public service, ensuring materials are managed effectively for state projects and facilities.
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Colliers Engineering & Design
Average Salary: $42,824
Colliers Engineering & Design offers Materials Technician positions in urban centers. This company specializes in engineering and design, providing a challenging environment for skilled technicians.
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Hillis-Carnes Engineering Associates, Inc.
Average Salary: $39,025
Hillis-Carnes Engineering Associates, Inc. hires Materials Technicians in North Carolina. This company focuses on infrastructure development, ensuring the right materials for construction projects.
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ECS Limited
Average Salary: $38,924
ECS Limited provides opportunities for Materials Technicians in multiple locations. This company offers a chance to work on diverse projects, from environmental to infrastructure.
How to earn more as a Materials Technician?
Becoming a successful Materials Technician can lead to greater earnings. Prioritizing professional growth can open up opportunities for higher pay. Attention to detail and accuracy in work can lead to trust from employers and higher-paying positions. Seeking out certifications and additional training can enhance skills and increase market value. Building a strong network within the industry can lead to more job opportunities and potentially higher salaries.
An effective strategy for earning more as a Materials Technician involves focusing on several key factors. Attention to detail is crucial, as errors in materials handling can lead to costly mistakes. Certifications in specialized areas, such as quality control or safety, can make a candidate more attractive to employers. Continuous learning and skill development can lead to promotions and higher salaries. Networking and maintaining professional relationships can lead to better job opportunities and increased earnings. Finally, demonstrating strong communication skills can lead to better understanding and implementation of materials handling processes, which can be valuable in higher-paying roles.
Here are some important factors to consider:
- Certifications in specialized areas
- Continuous learning and skill development
- Networking and professional relationships
- Attention to detail
- Strong communication skills



