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Materials Engineer

Do you want to become a Materials Engineer? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:

Job Description - Print Page

Materials engineers design, develop and improve the materials used in building and manufacturing. The materials they work with may be used:

• in buildings, bridges and other structures
• to produce cars and aircraft
• in replacement body parts, such as hips and arteries
• for sports equipment/facilities like tennis racquets and playing surfaces.

Materials engineers work with many different materials and also develop new ones. They choose the best materials for certain applications and check that they are suitable. The work involves a knowledge of physics, some chemistry and some engineering. A materials engineer may spend time:

• performing laboratory tests and experiments on materials
• overseeing the production or processing of materials
• testing materials in the field, on prototypes and in finished structures
• undertaking research and writing reports.

Most engineers work between 35 and 40 hours a week, from Monday to Friday. They may be based in offices, laboratories or manufacturing environments. Some engineers travel as part of their work, possibly overseas.

Salaries range from approximately £18,000 to more than £45,000 a year.

Materials engineers need to know about the qualities of materials and understand manufacturing processes and construction methods. They also need to be computer literate and have strong problem-solving skills.

Materials engineers may work for materials producing companies and manufacturers. They can work in industries including construction, construction engineering, building services, electronics, shipbuilding, aerospace, power generation, railways, electronics, and vehicle and consumer goods manufacture.

It is possible to train with an employer as a technician-level apprentice with GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3) including English, maths and science. Alternatively, applicants may study for a degree which could lead to becoming a recognised professional engineer.

Adult entry is possible.

Entrants should aim to become professional engineers at either the incorporated or chartered engineer level.

Promotion is possible to senior materials engineer or project manager. Opportunities may depend on the size of the company. Many materials engineers undertake further study and specialise in particular materials or applications.

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