What does a typical work day look like in the life of a materials engineer?

Materials engineers work about 40 hours per work week, which means that they must fit a significant amount of work into their eight-hour work day. As such, aerospace companies are looking for engineers that not only possess the knowledge of chemical and mechanical processes needed for production but an ability to organize their thoughts quickly. The materials engineering workspace is typically adjacent to production facilities, instead of design facilities, in order to facilitate an easy move from work space to the production line. Materials engineers are usually given individual computer and lab work stations in order to lay out plans, gather colleagues, and other activities requiring significant space.

Materials engineers need to have a first degree in material science or a combination of degrees including chemistry, chemical engineering, and structural engineering. Professionals with advanced degrees or apprenticeships with aerospace corporations are especially prized in materials engineering positions. These positions lend themselves to those who can pick up the nuances of a corporation's work structure quickly, use their academic knowledge in practical situations, and a commitment to excellence in every endeavor. Materials engineers have a great deal of career opportunities, including advancement to materials management positions in aerospace companies. As well, materials engineers can select to work as general engineers or specializing in chemical, manufacturing, or structural engineering.