How much does a Materials Engineers make in California?
Last updated: 2024 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
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.
Source: O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor
Salaries for Materials Engineers in California range from $87,070 at the 10th percentile (entry level) to $181,500 at the 90th percentile (experienced). The middle 50% earn between $106,080 and $153,110.
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate | Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $87,070 | $41.86 | $7,255 |
| 25th Percentile | $106,080 | $51.00 | $8,840 |
| Median (50th) | $127,550 | $61.32 | $10,629 |
| 75th Percentile | $153,110 | $73.61 | $12,759 |
| 90th Percentile (Experienced) | $181,500 | $87.26 | $15,125 |
Note: The mean (average) salary of $131,080 differs from the median because salary distributions are typically skewed by high earners.
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Compare Materials Engineers pay across states — sorted by highest median salary.
Salary data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, 2024 estimates. The OEWS survey covers approximately 1.1 million establishments nationwide.
Annual salaries are calculated based on a standard 2,080-hour work year. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, education, employer, and local market conditions. Figures do not include benefits, bonuses, or overtime pay.
Our Methodology · Data Sources · Source: BLS OEWS