Materials Engineer
SOC 17-2131.00 · ESCO 2146 · OSCA 243133
Role snapshot
Overview
Develops and tests metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites to meet specific performance requirements for products and structures. Analyses how materials behave under stress, heat, and corrosion to recommend the best options for manufacturing or construction. Materials Engineers innovate and apply knowledge of material properties to design, process, and characterise materials for a wide range of applications, from aerospace to biomedical devices.
Contributes to the development of safer, more efficient, and more sustainable products and infrastructure by selecting and designing materials with optimal properties. Drives innovation in various industries by enabling new technologies and improving existing ones.
On the job
- Conduct experiments to test material properties such as strength, durability, and conductivity.
- Analyse material failures and provide recommendations for improvement or alternative materials.
- Design and develop new materials or modify existing ones to meet specific performance criteria.
- Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and R&D teams to integrate materials into product development.
- Monitor and control manufacturing processes to ensure material quality and consistency.
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
GrowingJob growth is expected to be above average over the next five years.
Education & training
A bachelor's degree in materials science and engineering, metallurgical engineering, ceramic engineering, or a related engineering field is typically required.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Materials Engineer
Chemical & Process Engineering
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
realistic · RIC
Individuals who enjoy hands-on problem-solving, scientific investigation, and working with data and precise methods often thrive as Materials Engineers.
Personality characteristics
Analytical Thinker
Possesses a strong desire to understand complex material phenomena and explore innovative solutions.
Detail-oriented
Applies meticulous attention to detail in experimental design, data collection, and analysis to ensure accuracy.
Methodical
Favours a systematic and structured approach to problem-solving, experimentation, and process optimisation.
Collaborative
Works effectively with interdisciplinary teams, sharing knowledge and integrating feedback.
Resilient
Remains calm and focused when faced with experimental failures or challenging material problems.
Practical
Enjoys applying scientific principles and research findings to tangible engineering challenges and product development.
Best for
- Individuals who enjoy understanding how things work at a fundamental level and improving them.
- Engineers who are passionate about materials science and its application in diverse industries.
- Problem-solvers who thrive on scientific investigation and experimental validation.
Watch out for
- Requires meticulous attention to detail and patience for iterative testing and analysis.
- Can involve long hours in a lab environment and adherence to strict safety protocols.
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Materials Engineer — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
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