MATERIALS ENGINEER SKILLS, EXPERIENCE, AND JOB REQUIREMENTS

Updated: Jun 11, 2025 - The Materials Engineer has experience in material specifications, corrosion prevention standards, and environmental material applications, with expertise in aerospace composite repair and quality control, including NDT techniques. This role requires strong skills in technical support for supply chains, advanced problem-solving, and critical data analysis, ensuring precise and organized work. The engineer also has proficiency in computer software, effective communication, and adaptable to learning, contributing to team success in material engineering projects.

Essential Hard and Soft Skills for a Standout Materials Engineer Resume
  • Polymer Expertise
  • Process Validation
  • Cost Optimization Strategies
  • Data Analysis
  • Material Approvals
  • Material Testing
  • Performance Analysis
  • Material Selection
  • Statistical Analysis
  • Additive Manufacturing
  • Material Application Support
  • Quality Assurance
  • Strategic Planning
  • Technical Communication
  • Vendor Collaboration
  • Troubleshooting Expertise
  • Cross-Functional Communication
  • Problem Solving
  • Report Writing
  • Production Planning

Summary of Materials Engineer Knowledge and Qualifications on Resume

1. BS in Applied Chemistry with 4 years of Experience

  • Extensive Materials Engineering experience at a similar level.
  • A good understanding of Rolling Stock Maintenance and overhaul practices.
  • Strong understanding of materials compliance requirements.
  • Proven strong organizational, collaborative, and innovation experience and capability.
  • Proven ability to work under pressure and tight deadlines.
  • Strong management skills and the ability in terms of written and verbal communication
  • Strong presentation skills, people skills, and customer management
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills and ability to effectively communicate and report at all levels
  • Strong understanding of continuous improvement and belief in the process.
  • Motivated and eager to contribute to continuous improvement
  • Thorough and reliable worker and able to work on their initiative with little supervision
  • Experience in SAP/CMMS data manipulation and analysis of maintenance history information

2. BS in Materials Science and Engineering with 5 years of Experience

  • Mandatory knowledge of polymer science and characterization
  • Working experience in R&D or manufacturing positions.
  • Preferable proven experience in plastic compounding and/or processing (injection molding)
  • Experience in bioplastics, plastics recycling technology, and Circular Economy principles
  • Knowledge of Project management and MS project
  • Problem-solving and root-cause analysis abilities
  • Experience in new product development activities
  • Strong organization and communication skills
  • Good written and verbal communication skills
  • Sound knowledge of SAP/CMMS for delivery solutions and Asset maintenance requirements
  • Ability to teach and mentor co-workers on new methods and practices
  • Direct experience specifying experiment design, testing hypotheses, and interpreting results

3. BS in Chemical Engineering with 6 years of Experience

  • Laboratory experience using potentiostats to perform polarization scans and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.
  • Experience in data processing and presentation through data analysis software or computer programming.
  • Practical corrosion and materials testing skills including metallographic surface preparation, solution preparation, and optical and scanning electron microscopy.
  • Experience using common laboratory and machine shop tools.
  • Ability to learn new skills quickly and apply engineering knowledge in a fast-paced laboratory research environment.
  • Ability to document and relate technical information verbally and in written form to team members and outside customers.
  • Ability to perform and interpret data from chemical characterization techniques (i.e., XRD, ICP, XPS, SEM, EDS)
  • Familiarity with common electrochemical techniques (e.g., CV, EIS, RRDE) and battery testing (constant current, constant voltage, constant power)
  • Comfortable analyzing datasets with scientific programming languages, such as MATLAB, Python, or Mathematica
  • Experience with lean manufacturing concepts and information systems, production operations purchasing, materials, and engineering activities.
  • Knowledge of JDE (ERP system)
  • Hands-on experience with vacuum electronics and/or low-work-function materials
  • Must be highly self-motivated and directed, with keen attention to detail to successfully multi-task.

4. BS in Mechanical Engineering with 3 years of Experience

  • Experience in aircraft or automotive wheel or structural design 
  • Understanding of CFRP manufacturing processes and testing
  • Experience with Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA) and Risk Analysis
  • Registration as a Chartered Engineer (UK) or Professional Engineer (US)
  • Continuous Improvement (CI) training/experience 
  • Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Project and Visual Basic Programming
  • Experience in a role dealing with high-performance materials
  • Fundamentals in material engineering and process design, preferably in the field of Printed Circuit Board and or flexible printed circuits
  • Deep understanding of materials analysis methodologies e.g. strain rate dependent testing, high frequency dielectric property measurement
  • Experience with relevant materials database and simulation tools
  • Superior written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills to effectively communicate with internal and external customers.

5. BS in Polymer Science and Engineering with 5 years of Experience

  • High attention to detail, flexible and adaptable approach
  • Problem assessment and problem-solving
  • Considered and organized approach to tasks, methodical and diligent
  • Capability to quickly grasp new concepts and technologies
  • Exceptional team player with strong interpersonal skills
  • Ability to handle several ongoing projects, and prioritize and organize own workload
  • Capability to work autonomously and make considered decisions
  • Ability to communicate at all levels with both internal and external contacts
  • Ability to present information clearly and appropriately for the audience
  • Experience in photopolymers, Stereolithography, DLP, or other photopolymer 3D Printing technologies
  • Must have demonstrable skills and knowledge in using and understanding contract technical requirements.
  • Prior experience with NOG-L Quality Systems, EtQ, docQnet, Solumina, and SmartForms
  • Knowledge of composites, cure cycles, hot and cold bonding, and the use of adhesives

6. BS in Chemical Engineering with 3 years of Experience

  • Hands-on experience with test equipment set-up and systematic experimentation.
  • Experience with surface technologies and modification.
  • Project Leadership and formal technical report writing and presentation.
  • Experience with metal material microstructure, mechanical properties, and its processing process.
  • Exceptional root cause analysis, problem-solving, and analytical skills in preferably both manufacturing and R&D environments.
  • Familiarity with nanomaterials technology.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Proficient in Word Processing, Spreadsheet, and Portable Document Formats (PDF)
  • Understanding of CAD programs related to reviewing engineering plans
  • Ability to travel domestically and overseas for short periods to material fabrication facilities from California Offices
  • Experience in mounting and polishing plastic materials
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Office and able to draft technical reports.

7. BS in Ceramic Engineering with 7 years of Experience

  • Experience in manufacturing or supply chain operations
  • Knowledge of Industry Standards
  • Understanding of lean concepts along with a proven track record of driving continuous improvement via lean tools
  • Grow individual and organizational competency through proactive coaching and mentoring.
  • Outstanding communication, interpersonal, and facilitation skills
  • Demonstrated success in a “teaming” environment.
  • management, contracting, commercial negotiation, and other core Procurement skill sets
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to gather/leverage facts to generate confidence across the enterprise
  • Proficiency in general business applications (Google, Microsoft Office, SAP, Autocad, Value stream mapping, Ergonomic assessments, etc.)
  • Must have experience with metals, especially aluminum and stainless steel.
  • Experience in both optical and SEM metallography and fractography for failure analysis.
  • Experience in OES and SEM-EDS for chemical analysis.
  • Experience in root cause analysis for metal failure due to wear and corrosion and also provide problem-solving solutions to manufacturing.

8. BS in Industrial Engineering with 6 years of Experience

  • Experience working closely and building relationships with off-shore fabric and trim manufacturers
  • Be the expert textile engineer, preferably in apparel fabric manufacturing, who clearly understands raw materials processes and standards
  • Be a multi-task master and can handle multiple projects working with a variety of cross-functional partners
  • Be confident in your strengths, always open to challenges, and prefer discussing face-to-face
  • MS Excel and PowerPoint are your best friend, and you love to have fun and sweat!
  • Acknowledges the presence of choice in every moment and takes personal responsibility for their life.
  • Possesses an entrepreneurial spirit and continuously innovates to achieve great results.
  • Communicates with honesty and kindness, and creates the space for others to do the same.
  • Leads with courage, knowing the possibility of greatness is bigger than the fear of failure.
  • Fosters connection by putting people first and building trusting relationships.
  • Integrates fun and joy as a way of being and working, aka doesn’t take themselves too seriously.
  • Experience with PCB fabrication and anodization of aluminum.

9. BS in Mechanical Engineering with 8 years of Experience

  • Familiar with operations of a metallurgical laboratory and equipment conducting a broad range of tasks
  • Optical fractography experience, ability to identify fracture origins and failure modes in various materials
  • Ability to organize and direct multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Experience in providing concise reports with audience-appropriate conclusions and recommendations.
  • Integrating with design and testing engineers while conducting failure analysis to understand the conditions of failure and apply cross-functional knowledge to conclusions.
  • Knowledgeable about process controls and procedures used in materials manufacturing environments.
  • Understanding and application of heat treatment principles for ferrous and nonferrous materials
  • Knowledge of steel and aluminum forging processes including die design, processing limitation, and quality control practices
  • Design and manufacturing experience with tube fabrication and welding processes including HSLA steels
  • Understanding of ductile and gray iron processing and characterization
  • Non-ferrous metal high pressure and gravity casting knowledge and specification
  • Nondestructive testing knowledge and process development including radiography, ultrasound, eddy current, and penetrant inspection
  • Processing and characterization knowledge of corrosion-inhibiting coatings for aesthetic and functional purposes, including but not limited to Chrome, Zinc, anodizing
  • Work experience especially manufacturing and new product development experience.

10. BS in Applied Chemistry with 5 years of Experience

  • Demonstrated success in utilizing lean tools such as PDCA, value stream mapping, Kaizen, 5S, etc.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and mechanical aptitude.
  • Machining skills, tool/fixture design, CAD modeling, or machine programming experience
  • Familiarity with aerospace products and standards and/or FAA regulations.
  • Attention to detail and adherence to approved manufacturing data.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills.
  • Advanced organizational skills with the ability to prioritize, and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Previous work with airfoil fabrication.
  • Detailed knowledge of specialized metallurgical laboratory test equipment
  • Knowledge of heat treatment, steel production, and metal forming processes.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Project management for large multi-discipline projects
  • Demonstrated proficiency with metallurgical laboratory equipment
  • Good listener and ability to work on a team
  • Experience in industrial production areas and or laboratory evaluation of material properties

11. BS in Polymer Science and Engineering with 6 years of Experience

  • Experience commissioning equipment
  • Demonstrated track record of success in a fast-paced and highly competitive environment
  • Experience with applying materials processing techniques in support of materials development in addition to regular production testing support
  • Personality and drive to execute in a scrappy entrepreneurial environment that operates under tight timelines and aggressive schedules
  • Effective written and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Must be capable of interacting with and conveying concepts within all levels of our organization
  • Strong academic foundation with an understanding of physical metallurgy
  • Ability to work in outdoor environments
  • Ability and willingness to work with chemicals utilizing proper personal protection equipment
  • Experience with electrochemistry, plating, and printing thin film metals.
  • Experience with characterization of thin film metals.
  • Experience working in large cross-functional project teams.
  • Experience thriving in a fast-paced environment and managing ambiguity.
  • Knowledge about different types of surface treatment such as painting and corrosion protection treatment.
  • Knowledge and experience within the field of electronics

12. BS in Polymer Science and Engineering with 4 years of Experience

  • Deep technical background in polymer materials processing and evaluation
  • Experience with polymer component manufacturing or adhesives, resins, high-temperature lubrication, etc.
  • Understanding of polymer structure-property relationships and knowledge of polymer analytical techniques
  • Strong hands-on laboratory experience
  • Ability to assimilate quickly and produce valuable results
  • Be a strong supporter and user of existing literature to facilitate learning - journals, conferences, etc
  • Demonstrated strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with customers, suppliers, and co-workers
  • Problem-solving skills all the noise out and rapidly hone in on the root cause
  • Ability to effectively communicate and document project updates through presentations and technical report writing
  • Ability to effectively manage several ongoing projects
  • Polymer manufacturing process engineering basics
  • Understanding of polymer injection molding and extrusion processes
  • Able to work independently, flexible, and adaptable

13. BS in Nanotechnology with 6 years of Experience

  • Recognized contributor to the field of polymer physics or mechanics demonstrated through an active track record of publications, patents, participation in trade associations, conferences, and the like.
  • Experience in polymer mechanics-focused RandD or product development
  • Significant experience in the medical device or pharmaceutical industry.
  • Experience in leading project teams independently
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively in global, cross-functional teams
  • Ability to learn quickly and dig into multiple problems simultaneously
  • Drive to build new systems, and processes, be involved in building something new
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to drive for solutions to complex problems.
  • Strong oral and written technical communication skills.
  • Experience communicating technical information to audiences with different backgrounds.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead teams and to manage and mentor junior scientists.
  • Knowledgeable and experienced in polymer characterization techniques - DSC, TGA, DMA, FTIR, GPC, SEM, AFM, WCA, and rheometer.
  • Knowledgeable in mechanical testing of elastomers such as tensile strength
  • Understanding of reliability testing and needs for products in general

14. BS in Materials Science with 7 years of Experience

  • Experience in nylon and related plastics manufacturing or compounding.
  • Experience with nylon materials analysis and testing.
  • Experience in plastics compounding and engineering.
  • Strong interpersonal, computer, written, and oral communication skills.
  • Proactive self-starter with the ability to work independently, attack new challenges, and prioritize needs to meet project goals.
  • Experience with analytical methods in plastics, testing plastics, polymers, nylons, and/or TPUs.
  • Single and twin-screw extrusion experience
  • Modifying nylon using different additive packages based on performance needs and customer demand.
  • Troubleshooting and problem-solving in product development and quality issue resolution.
  • Compounding and extrusion process improvement.
  • DOE (design of experiment) development and execution experience.
  • End-use application and field experience
  • Experience with certification under various regulatory standards (RoHS, REACH, FDA, etc.).
  • Comfortable working in a chemical/manufacturing environment.

15. BS in Aerospace Engineering with 5 years of Experience

  • Familiar with material specifications and standards governing corrosion prevention and environmental material applications.
  • A strong understanding of qualification requirements for corrosion protection as applies to aircraft and knowledge of the impact of the environment on structural properties.
  • Experience with quality control and NDT of hardware and structures.
  • Experience with the development of field repair for aerospace composite structure
  • Experience as a concrete engineer on a construction project
  • Able to work accurately and appreciate its importance to the team.
  • Competent user of computer software packages particularly Microsoft Office
  • A willingness to learn with appropriate instruction
  • Good standards of written and verbal communication
  • Organized and able to prioritize workload
  • Previous experience with technical support to supply chain and production
  • Critical thinking skills and advanced data analysis.
  • Proficient in advanced problem-solving.

16. BS in Chemical Engineering with 4 years of Experience

  • Demonstrated experience with experimental physics or chemistry using vacuum systems and statistical experimentation
  • Prior commercial/industrial experience
  • Experience in a startup company
  • Experience with mechanical 3D part design/CAD (e.g. Solidworks)
  • Strong team player with impeccable communication skills
  • Experience within the aerospace or DOD industry, or equivalent
  • Experience with high-pressure oxygen systems.
  • Work experience within different fields of material analysis methods
  • Good collaboration and communication skills in English
  • Experience with a lab-based materials research project or product development effort (e.g., full-time industrial position, internships, undergraduate research experiences)
  • Initiative in proposing project activities within assigned area of responsibility.
  • Statistics, data analysis, and design of experiments
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