Materials engineer
Test and research the materials of the future to use them in new technology and better products.
About the job
Salary
Source: National Careers Service
Weekly
£519
Entry level
£1,000
Experienced
Monthly
£2,250
Entry level
£4,333
Experienced
Yearly
£27,000
Entry level
£52,000
Experienced
16,100
people are currently employed
High growth
300 more jobs in 5 years
These figures refer to this job and similar ones with comparable skills and qualifications. They only apply to Scotland. Source: Oxford Economics
What it's like
You would test and research the materials of the future to use them in new technology and better products.
You could work with new nanomaterials like graphene and phosphorene. You could find out how to use their properties for computer electronics or biological sensors.
Or you might find new ways to use older materials. For example, you might test carbon fibre reinforced plastics to make stronger, lighter sports equipment. You could develop the special polymers, ceramics and alloys used in medical implants.
You would normally work in a particular area, like metals, coatings or chemicals.
You would:
Research the properties of materials
Research new ways to combine properties
Test materials under different conditions
Analyse test data, using computer modelling software
Develop prototypes for new products
Help to design product manufacturing processes that use new materials
Investigate the reasons behind component or structural failures
Supervise a team of technicians
Write reports for project managers and clients
You would often investigate materials with non-destructive methods, like testing for tolerance to heat or corrosion, electrical conductivity or durability and strength.
Hours
Environment
Travel
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Engineering and manufacturing Energy Chemical sciences
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Here are some of the skills you'll need to do this job:
- managing resources
- developing a plan
- researching
- working with numbers
- problem solving
- designing
- written communication
- working with technology
- verbal communication
- cooperating
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore the sections shown for more information about getting into this career.
You might have qualifications which are not shown here but will allow you access to a course. You can compare your qualifications by looking at their SCQF Level. For more information about this, check out the SCQF website.
Always contact the college, university or training provider to check exactly what you'll need.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Foundation Apprenticeship: Automotive
Chemistry
Design and Manufacture
Design and Technology
Engineering Science
Practical Craft Skills
Practical Metalwork
Skills for Work: Engineering Skills
Foundation Apprenticeship: Engineering
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
You would need a degree (SCQF level 9/10) in:
Materials engineering
Polymer engineering
Metallurgy
Applied chemistry
Applied physics
Alternatively a degree specialising in materials or their commercial use such as
Polymer science
Biomaterials
Sports and materials science
Ideally accredited by the Engineering Council or other relevant industry bodies.
Entry to a Materials Engineering degree (SCFQ level 9/10) requires National 5 qualifications and Highers at BBBC or above, or a relevant HNC. To enter a Postgraduate course (SCQF level 11) you will usually require an Honours Degree in a relevant subject. It may also be possible to start as a materials technician apprentice and complete more qualifications after your apprenticeship to become an engineer.
Qualifications that show understanding and experience of the industry such as Skills for Work Engineering Skills (SCQF level 4).
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