Materials Scientists
Research and study the structures and chemical properties of various natural and synthetic or composite materials, including metals, alloys, rubber, ceramics, semiconductors, polymers, and glass. Determine ways to strengthen or combine materials or develop new materials with new or specific properties for use in a variety of products and applications. Includes glass scientists, ceramic scientists, metallurgical scientists, and polymer scientists.
Education & Training
Percentage of workers at each education and training level
Education Level
Prior Experience Needed
Work experience required to enter this job
Training Provided After Hiring
How long it typically takes to learn on the job
How AI Impacts Each Task
16 tasks analyzed
Conduct research on the structures and properties of materials, such as metals, alloys, polymers, and ceramics, to obtain information that could be used to develop new products or enhance existing ones.
Prepare reports, manuscripts, proposals, and technical manuals for use by other scientists and requestors, such as sponsors and customers.
Perform experiments and computer modeling to study the nature, structure, and physical and chemical properties of metals and their alloys, and their responses to applied forces.
Plan laboratory experiments to confirm feasibility of processes and techniques used in the production of materials with special characteristics.
Determine ways to strengthen or combine materials or develop new materials with new or specific properties for use in a variety of products and applications.
| Task | AI Capability | Risk | Time % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conduct research on the structures and properties of materials, such as metals, alloys, polymers, and ceramics, to obtain information that could be used to develop new products or enhance existing ones. | - | - | 15% |
| Prepare reports, manuscripts, proposals, and technical manuals for use by other scientists and requestors, such as sponsors and customers. | - | - | 10% |
| Perform experiments and computer modeling to study the nature, structure, and physical and chemical properties of metals and their alloys, and their responses to applied forces. | - | - | 15% |
| Plan laboratory experiments to confirm feasibility of processes and techniques used in the production of materials with special characteristics. | - | - | 8% |
| Determine ways to strengthen or combine materials or develop new materials with new or specific properties for use in a variety of products and applications. | - | - | 8% |
Essential Soft Skills
Traits that are hard for AI to replicate
Wage & Employment (2024)
Median Wage
$104,160
per year
Mean Wage
$111,410
per year
Employment
8K
workers
Wage Range
$61,460 - $168,500
10th - 90th pct
Wage Distribution
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