How to become a materials engineer

Evaluate materials and develop machinery and processes to manufacture materials for use in products that must meet specialized design and performance specifications. Develop new uses for known materials. Includes those engineers working with composite materials or specializing in one type of material, such as graphite, metal and metal alloys, ceramics and glass, plastics and polymers, and naturally occurring materials. Includes metallurgists and metallurgical engineers, ceramic engineers, and welding engineers.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not..A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.

What materials engineers do

• Conduct or supervise tests on raw materials or finished products to ensure their quality.
• Review new product plans, and make recommendations for material selection, based on design objectives such as strength, weight, heat resistance, electrical conductivity, and cost.
• Evaluate technical specifications and economic factors relating to process or product design objectives.
• Solve problems in a number of engineering fields, such as mechanical, chemical, electrical, civil, nuclear, and aerospace.
• Plan and implement laboratory operations to develop material and fabrication procedures that meet cost, product specification, and performance standards.
• Analyze product failure data and laboratory test results to determine causes of problems and develop solutions.

Skills that matter most

• Reading Comprehension
• Active Listening
• Writing
• Speaking
• Mathematics
• Science
• Critical Thinking
• Active Learning

Is materials engineer a good career?

On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 121% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• New Mexico $165,600
• Maryland $140,640
• Washington $139,840
• Delaware $131,320
• Louisiana $128,670

Materials Engineers salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.