Materials Scientists Salary Guide 2025: $117,790 Median Pay & Career Outlook
The median salary for Materials Scientists hit $117,790 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average worker earns $126,180, or about $57 an hour. Most fall between $66,820 (10th percentile) and $197,290 (90th percentile).
How much Materials Scientists earn
The typical Materials Scientist brings home $117,790 at the median. The top 10% pull in over $197,290, while entry-level positions start around $66,820. Those are BLS estimates from May 2024.
Pay varies by industry. Scientists in research and development tend to earn more than those in manufacturing, but the national mean is $126,180.
Pay by state
California tops the list at a mean salary of $177,030, followed by Oregon ($150,550), Wisconsin ($137,700), the District of Columbia ($137,600), and Massachusetts ($132,600). At the other end, Texas pays just $72,700 on average, Montana $71,810, and Tennessee $69,010.
Location matters a lot for this career. A Materials Scientist in San Francisco can earn more than double one in Nashville, even after adjusting for cost of living.
How to become Materials Scientist
You'll need at least a bachelor's degree in materials science, chemistry, or physics. Many jobs demand a master's or PhD, especially in R&D. Lab experience during school is common.
Licensing isn't typical, but some engineers in this field pursue Professional Engineer (PE) certification. Entry-level roles often go by 'Materials Scientist I' with on-the-job training.
- Earn a bachelor's in materials science, chemistry, or a related field
- Gain lab experience through internships or university research
- Consider a master's or PhD for higher-level positions
- Optional: obtain Professional Engineer licensure if you do engineering work
Job outlook
The BLS projects 4.9% growth for Materials Scientists from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 600 new openings each year, most from retirements and industry shifts.
Demand is driven by advances in electronics, energy storage, and medical devices. New materials for batteries and semiconductors keep the field humming.
Frequently asked questions
Do Materials Scientists make good money?
Yes. The median salary is $117,790, well above the U.S. median. Top earners make over $197,000.
What degree do you need to be a Materials Scientist?
A bachelor's in materials science, chemistry, or physics is the minimum. Many research roles require a master's or PhD.
Is Materials Scientist a growing career?
Yes. The BLS expects 4.9% growth from 2024 to 2034, faster than average, with about 600 job openings per year.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Materials Scientists data.