Median Annual Wage: $87,690
Education: Bachelor's degree (51%); Master's degree (31%); Doctoral degree (8%)
Projected Growth: Little or no change (-2% to 2%)
Related Job Titles: Test Engineer; Research Engineer; Process Engineer; Materials Engineer; Materials Research Engineer; Metallurgist; Materials and Processes Manager; Materials Branch Chief; Materials Development Engineer; Metallurgical Engineer
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Source: O*NET OnLine information for Materials Engineers.
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- Supervise the work of technologists, technicians, and other engineers and scientists.
- Analyze product failure data and laboratory test results to determine causes of problems and develop solutions.
- Conduct or supervise tests on raw materials or finished products to ensure their quality.
- Plan and implement laboratory operations for the purpose of developing material and fabrication procedures that meet cost, product specification, and performance standards.
- Design and direct the testing or control of processing procedures.
- Plan and evaluate new projects, consulting with other engineers and corporate executives as necessary.
- Perform managerial functions, such as preparing proposals and budgets, analyzing labor costs, and writing reports.
- Monitor material performance and evaluate material deterioration.
- Guide technical staff engaged in developing materials for specific uses in projected products or devices.
- Evaluate technical specifications and economic factors relating to process or product design objectives.
- Modify properties of metal alloys, using thermal and mechanical treatments.
- Determine appropriate methods for fabricating and joining materials.
- Solve problems in a number of engineering fields, such as mechanical, chemical, electrical, civil, nuclear, and aerospace.
- Supervise production and testing processes in industrial settings, such as metal refining facilities, smelting or foundry operations, or nonmetallic materials production operations.
- Teach in colleges and universities.
- Replicate the characteristics of materials and their components with computers.
Source: O*NET OnLine information for Materials Engineers.
- Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
- Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
- Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
- Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
- Science - Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
- Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
- Mathematics - Using mathematics to solve problems.
- Active Learning - Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
- Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Source: O*NET OnLine information for Materials Engineers.