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Material Science Engineering Careers
Where do materials engineers work?
Because materials are the starting point for new products, materials engineers work on the leading edge in many industries.
In microelectronics, materials engineers focus on making microelectronic units smaller, less expensive and faster. They work to increase the capacity of magnetic memory devices such as hard drives and the storage capacity of permanent magnetic devices.
Materials engineers have enhanced monitor resolution, decreased weight and increased battery life for computers.
Advances in materials have made telecommunications and cellular phones more affordable.
Safety, fuel efficiency and reduced pollution are just a Few of the assignments for materials engineers in the automotive industry where composites and polymers are replacing steel body panels and aluminum and ceramics are finding new uses.
Materials engineers are leading the development of strong, lightweight composites in high-tech industries such as aeronautical and aerospace.
By developing artificial skin for bum victims and chromium alloy hip implants, materials engineers are improving quality of life for many people. Other contributions to health care include new diagnostic equipment like ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging.
Energy production is becoming a cleaner process due to pollution controls. New power sources, like solar cells which convert sunlight to electricity, are becoming more cost-effective thanks to research by materials scientists. New developments in permanent magnetic material have revolutionized their application. New ceramic engines will be able to operate at higher temperatures, increasing engine efficiency.
In sports, materials engineers have delivered stiffer golf clubs to increase distance, low-friction bearings for roller blades, lighter-weight bicycles and more reliable and controllable parachutes.
What shape can my career take?
Materials engineering is a hands-on career that often begins in manufacturing or technical support and moves on into management, research, development, sales or consulting.
In manufacturing, beginning materials technicians and engineers might ensure that incoming material specifications are met, that production lines run smoothly, and that products meet appropriate quality standards. They are involved in troubleshooting and competitive analysis. These activities can serve as a foundation for strategic planning and management positions, particularly with the addition of a Masters degree in Business Administration.
Leading-edge research and the invention of new materials from superconductors to radar-absorbing coatings to infrared sensors is carried out by engineers with an MS or Ph.D. degree.
Development of new production methods and new products is critical for businesses to become and remain competitive. Engineers with all levels of education (BS, MS, Ph.D.) can pursue this path
Consulting positions reward materials engineers with a variety of short-term assignments, an array of technical experience and significant financial compensation. This is a good training ground for new graduates who are seeking a challenging and varied career.
Materials engineers may even enter the law, a career that benefits from training in logic and the ability to handle complex technical issues. A BS in engineering, along with biology and chemistry courses, can also provide excellent preparation for medical school, particularly for individuals interested in developing and testing new devices.
Materials engineering is a financially rewarding field
The need for capable, well-educated materials specialists translates into starring salaries that are competitive with those in other engineering fields and higher than those in many other disciplines.
For current information on starting salaries in materials engineering, contact the ASM International Foundation Office.
Where do I start?
If you're interested in a career in materials engineering, you should develop a strong background in chemistry, physics and math, along with social studies, languages, the humanities and the arts. You should also be interested in applying your knowledge to developing materials, products and production processes.
The ASM International Foundation, ASM's Chapter and Student Relations Department, your local ASM chapter and school guidance office can help you explore scholarship opportunities, find schools with materials and related programs, and network with students and professionals.