Careers · Materials Scientists · Illinois
Materials Scientists in Illinois
Materials scientists research and develop natural and synthetic materials—metals, alloys, ceramics, polymers, semiconductors, and glass—by studying their structures and chemical properties. They work to strengthen existing materials, combine them in new ways, or create entirely new materials with specific performance characteristics In Illinois the median pay is $125,850 a year, 7% above the national median of $117,790.
$125,850median pay in Illinois, per year
$104,350–$145,620middle half earn
380employed in Illinois
$117,790U.S. median, for comparison
Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against materials scientists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against materials scientists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Who is hiring in Illinois
2open roles like this on employer career sites, 0 in Illinois or remote
2employers hiring
0posted in the last 7 days
OH · CTwhere most openings are
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Reading ComprehensionActive ListeningScienceCritical ThinkingComplex Problem SolvingWritingSpeakingActive Learning
Knowledge areas
Engineering and TechnologyChemistryPhysicsMathematics (knowledge)Computers and ElectronicsProduction and Processing
Full profile, interests that fit, certifications and training: Materials Scientists.
Licenses and training in Illinois
Materials Scientists pay in other states
California · $177,030Oregon · $150,550Wisconsin · $137,700District of Columbia · $137,600Massachusetts · $132,600Minnesota · $132,160New York · $131,740Indiana · $130,540Connecticut · $130,320Washington · $127,250
Related occupations
ChemistsAstronomersPhysicistsAtmospheric and Space ScientistsEnvironmental Scientists and Specialists, Including HealthClimate Change Policy AnalystsEnvironmental Restoration PlannersIndustrial Ecologists
Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against materials scientists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against materials scientists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-2032.00. Pay: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, Illinois, annual.