Materials engineers are natural scientists and engineers combined in one person. They develop, explore and test materials and thus lay the foundation for new technologies. Besides, their area of responsibility includes tasks such as the development of environmentally friendly recycling procedures and energy-saving production methods.
Materials engineers have essential know-how and are therefore in demand in many industries. Although their job opportunities are subject to economic fluctuations, they have good prospects on the job market. As they explore and develop innovative materials for many industries, they can work in a great variety of fields. Their entry opportunities and job prospects are particularly good in the development of resource-saving methods, in the automotive industry, in medical engineering, test laboratories, the computer industry or in energy technology.
Materials engineers have extensive scientific knowledge and are eager to explore new materials. They act as chemists, physicists and engineers at the same time and are in charge of the development and optimisation of materials that constitute the basis of plants, devices or machines. Materials engineers are essential in today’s world, as they do research on new materials that improve products and their characteristics and make them more efficient.
A bachelor’s or master’s degree in materials science – sometimes also called materials engineering or materials management – is required to work as a materials engineer. Students of mechanical or electrical engineering can specialise in materials engineering during their studies. In addition to professional qualifications, soft skills such as an analytical way of thinking and a responsible way of working are essential to be successful in this profession.
The average annual salary of materials engineers amounts to between EUR 46,000 and EUR 73,000, depending on industry and employer.
As a materials engineer, you have a versatile and future-oriented profession and contribute to making our world more modern and sustainable. We will be happy to assist you in your job search and will help you find your dream job. Learn more about the benefits of finding a job with Hays
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