O*NET Career Intelligence

Materials Engineers

SOC 17-2131.00

Evaluate materials and develop machinery and processes to manufacture materials for use in products that must meet specialized design and performance specifications. Develop new uses for known materials. Includes those engineers working with composite materials or specializing in one type of material, such as graphite, metal and metal alloys, ceramics and glass, plastics and polymers, and naturally occurring materials. Includes metallurgists and metallurgical engineers, ceramic engineers, and welding engineers.

Zone 4 Architecture and Engineering

Skills

Knowledge

Job Zone

Green

Top Skills 8

Reading Comprehension

4.0

Critical Thinking

4.0

Active Listening

3.9

Writing

3.8

Speaking

3.6

Science

3.6

Complex Problem Solving

3.6

Mathematics

3.5

Knowledge Areas 8

Engineering and Technology

4.6

Chemistry

4.5

Mathematics

4.3

Physics

4.3

Production and Processing

4.0

English Language

3.9

Computers and Electronics

3.6

Mechanical

3.5

Key Tasks

1Review new product plans and make recommendations for material selection, based on design objectives such as strength, weight, heat resistance, electrical conductivity, and cost.

2Supervise the work of technologists, technicians, and other engineers and scientists.

3Analyze product failure data and laboratory test results to determine causes of problems and develop solutions.

4Conduct or supervise tests on raw materials or finished products to ensure their quality.

5Plan and implement laboratory operations to develop material and fabrication procedures that meet cost, product specification, and performance standards.

Also Known As

Automation Engineer Ceramic Design Engineer Ceramic Research Engineer Ceramics Test Engineer Corrosion Engineer Design Engineer Extractive Metallurgist Failure Analysis Technician Forensic Materials Engineer Foundry Metallurgist