Materials Engineer Jobs

Engineers who design, develop, and test advanced materials. A critical role in industries from aerospace to healthcare, ensuring materials meet the highest standards of performance and reliability.

Open roles
4
Hiring companies
4

Materials Engineers play a pivotal role in the development and application of advanced materials. They work across a range of industries, from aerospace and automotive to healthcare and electronics, ensuring that materials meet the highest standards of performance, reliability, and sustainability. These engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and testing materials to meet specific requirements, often working in multidisciplinary teams to solve complex problems.

What the role does

Inside the role of a Materials Engineer

A typical week for a Materials Engineer is a mix of laboratory work, data analysis, and collaboration with other engineers and scientists.

  1. 01
    Conduct experiments to test material properties.
  2. 02
    Analyse data and prepare reports.
  3. 03
    Collaborate with cross-functional teams on project goals.
  4. 04
    Attend meetings to discuss project progress and challenges.
  5. 05
    Stay updated with the latest research and industry trends.
  6. 06
    Document findings and contribute to technical publications.
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

A typical UK progression for materials engineers. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.

  1. Level 1

    Junior Materials Engineer

    0–2 yrs

    Assist in material testing and data collection, working under the guidance of senior engineers.

  2. Level 2

    Materials Engineer

    3–5 yrs

    Lead specific projects, manage small teams, and contribute to the development of new materials.

  3. Level 3

    Senior Materials Engineer

    6–10 yrs

    Oversee multiple projects, mentor junior engineers, and drive innovation in material development.

  4. Level 4

    Principal Materials Engineer

    10+ yrs

    Strategise long-term material development plans, lead large teams, and influence company direction.

Pathway

How to become a Materials Engineer

There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.

  1. 1

    Academic Foundation

    Complete a degree in materials science, engineering, or a related field.

  2. 2

    Entry-Level Experience

    Gain practical experience through internships or junior roles in materials engineering.

  3. 3

    Specialisation

    Focus on a specific area of materials science, such as polymers, nanomaterials, or biomaterials.

  4. 4

    Advanced Roles

    Progress to senior roles, leading projects and managing teams.

  5. 5

    Leadership

    Take on leadership positions, driving strategic initiatives and innovation.

  6. 6

    Industry Expert

    Become a recognised expert in the field, contributing to industry standards and research.

Live jobs

4 live roles

Belcan logo

Materials Engineer

Materials EngineerLocation: Filton (Hybrid - approx. 60% onsite, initially 100% for handover)Contract: Maternity cover - until March 2027 (likely extension)Working Pattern: 35 Hours per week, worked over 4.5 days (between 7am-7pm, hoursagreed by the business)Pay Rate: £35.00 per hour (Umbrella)...

Belcan Filton, Gloucestershire, United Kingdom £35 ph

Materials Engineer/ Metallurgist

This role involves providing metallurgical expertise across forging and heat treatment operations, investigating test failures, and supporting quality and production teams. You will work closely with customers and internal departments to ensure technical excellence and contribute to continuous improvement projects. The company offers long-term stability, training, and career progression opportunities.

Rise Technical Recruitment Halesowen, West Midlands (county), B63 4AB, United Kingdom £40,000 – £45,000 pa
On-site Permanent

Materials Engineer (Metallurgy)

Please note, this role is based in Barrow-in-Furness working onsite 4-5 days per weekThis role sits at Consultant/Technologist level and will act as a key technical authority in the manufacture of metallic components, particularly across forging, casting, and rolling processes....

Copello Barrow in Furness, Cumbria, United Kingdom £70,000 pa
On-site Permanent

Junior Materials Engineer

Junior Materials Engineer – Gloucester, GloucestershireAre you looking to kick start your career as a Junior Materials Engineer in Gloucester? This is a fantastic opportunity for someone early in their career to join a forward thinking technical team working across...

Octagon Group Gloucester, United Kingdom
FAQs

Common questions

  • Materials Engineers are hired by a variety of industries, including aerospace, automotive, healthcare, electronics, and manufacturing.

  • Essential skills include a strong foundation in materials science, analytical skills, problem-solving ability, and proficiency in laboratory techniques.

  • Continual learning, specialisation in a specific area, and gaining leadership experience are key to advancing your career in materials engineering.

  • Salaries for Materials Engineers can vary widely based on experience, industry, and location. For more detailed salary information, please refer to the salary section on this page.

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