Materials engineer jobs

Materials engineers employ their knowledge to efficiently create specifications, develop, process, and apply materials.

What is the role of a materials engineer? Typical employers | Training and qualifications | Key skills

Materials engineers are experts in materials science and engineering.

The size and kind of employer influence job obligations. However, typical responsibilities include:

materials development, modification, testing, and evaluation

offering technical guidance on material suitability

identifying flaws

Inspections, maintenance, and repairs: consulting, planning, and organizing

monitoring quality control processes in the field

coordinating with vendors, customers, and manufacturing/development personnel

directing engineering and technical personnel

conducting pertinent research

Read our materials and metals industry overview, authored by an experienced materials engineer, to learn more about materials engineering.

Materials engineers' typical employers

Companies that manufacture and treat metals and materials

organizations engaged in research and development

utilities businesses

companies that produce oil and gas

government service

Check out our engineering CV and cover letter guidelines, as well as our advise on filling out online applications, for help with applying for engineering jobs and internships.

Go to our engineering pay round-up to see how much money you may make as an engineer.

Required qualifications and training

Both high school graduates and university graduates can work in this field. Materials engineering, mining engineering, mechanical engineering, materials science, or metallurgy are examples of related engineering or science-based subjects. Some employers will require a 2.1 degree, while others will accept a 2.2 degree. Take a look at our list of engineering companies that hire people with a 2.2 degree.

Postgraduate qualifications can be advantageous (especially for graduates with suitable backgrounds) and are sometimes required for certain positions. The Engineering Council's website has a list of certified courses, and you may read our page on engineering postgraduate education to learn more about your options.

A higher national diploma (HND) may allow you to enter the field as a school leaver, although career advancement may be limited. If you want to work as a technician, you'll need an advanced or higher apprenticeship in a relevant field like materials, manufacturing, or mechanical engineering. Visit the engineering section of TARGETcareers, our website for school leavers, to learn more about getting into engineering as a school leaver.

Many firms offer final year project work, degree sponsorship, vacation work, and industrial placements, all of which can provide valuable insight into the sector. Check out our list of engineering firms that provide industrial placements and summer internships.

The Engineering Council's chartered (CEng) designation can help you demonstrate your professionalism and dedication to your subject. You'll need an authorized bachelor's degree in engineering or technology, as well as an applicable master's degree (MEng) or doctorate (EngD) from a professional engineering institution like the Institute of Materials, Minerals, and Mining (IOM3). With an integrated MSc, you will also be eligible. Take a look at our chartership handbook for additional information.

Materials engineers must have certain abilities.

knowledge of science and technology

talents in analysis

confidence

abilities to lead

talents in effective organization

interpersonal and communication abilities

commercial understanding

careful observation

teamwork abilities