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Also known as: Applications Scientist, Material Science Engineer, Materials Research Engineer, Materials Scientist
You arrive at the clean, environmentally controlled research facility, swiping your badge around 8:30 AM. The hum of various instruments is a constant backdrop as you head to your desk. First, you open Outlook, sifting through emails from your project manager and collaborators about the new polymer composite development. You review your agenda for the day, confirming the planned characterization tests for the material samples you prepped yesterday.
Software and technologies flagged by O*NET as Hot or In-Demand for this role.
O*NET flags this career as a Bright Outlook occupation: grows rapidly over the next decade.
+8.3%
US average: +3.5%
600
per year (US)
8,600
in 2025 → 9,300 (2035)
Bachelor's degree
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections; O*NET Bright Outlook. Read the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook
How this work is typically performed, based on O*NET work context data.
Source: O*NET Work Context (v31.0)
This career is growing, with an expected 8.3% increase in jobs by 2035, leading to about 600 openings each year. The median annual wage is $117,790. You can advance from roles like Lab Technician to becoming a Senior Materials Scientist or an R&D Manager as you gain experience.
Career ladder
Often before this role
Where it can lead
$117,790
Median annual wage, BLS 2025
Bachelor's Degree
Minimum educational requirement for this position
Based on job level & field
Materials Chemistry
Bachelor • Natural Sciences & Mathematics • 4 years
Chemical Physics
Bachelor • Natural Sciences & Mathematics • 4 years
Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering
Bachelor • Tech & Engineering • 4 years
Theoretical and Mathematical Physics
Bachelor • Natural Sciences & Mathematics • 4 years
Biophysics
Bachelor • Healthcare & Life Sciences • 4 years
Applied Biology
Bachelor • Healthcare & Life Sciences • 4 years