Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for a versatile Materials Science Engineer to join our multi-disciplinary team of engineers and technicians. In this hands-on role, you will bridge the gap between R&D and production, driving the development of advanced materials-driven systems for critical defense programs.

Your time will be split between technical execution (60–70%) and project coordination (30–40%). Whether you are in the lab, on the shop floor, or collaborating with government stakeholders, you’ll ensure our systems meet the highest standards of reliability and performance. We value candidates with expertise in metals, composites, or process development who are eager to dive into defense-specific applications.

Location: Sterling, VA
Schedule: Mon – Fri, 8a-5p
Compensation: $90-140k +
*Relocation package available for the right candidate

Materials Science Engineer Requirements/Competencies:

Essential Requirements: 

• Eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance (U.S. citizenship is a pre-requisite)
• Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Materials Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or closely related field
• 3+ years of hands-on experience in materials engineering, materials/process development, product development, manufacturing engineering, or a related technical role
• Experience with design for manufacturability and materials processing for metal components
• Experience working closely with manufacturing teams (machinists/technicians) to support design implementation and troubleshooting
• Experience with advanced metallic and composite materials development relevant to defense applications
• Strong technical writing and data presentation skills, with the ability to clearly communicate design intent and results
• Demonstrated ability to solve complex engineering problems and drive practical, manufacturable solutions

Preferred:

• Active security clearance
• 7+ years of experience in a closely related position
• Master’s degree in Materials Science Engineering or closely related field
• Experience with reactive or energetic materials (e.g., reactive metal–metal or metal–polymer systems), including safe handling practices, processing, and performance testing
• Experience with rapid prototyping, manufacturing, process scale-up, and quality control in commercial or government programs
• Familiarity with machining processes and how material selection and properties affect manufacturability, tooling, tolerances, and part performance, especially for high-strength alloys and composites
• Experience transitioning designs from R&D to production
• Experience working in a fast-paced prototype or low-volume production environment
• Experience collaborating with CAD/design teams to support material-integrated components and assemblies
• Experience with MRP systems

Materials Science Engineer Responsibilities:

• Project & Resource Management: Oversee the full project lifecycle—from initial proposal and budget development to final delivery—while managing cross-functional teams and coordinating external vendors to ensure high-quality execution.
• Strategic Growth & Relationship Building: Drive business development by identifying new opportunities, managing key client relationships, and leading the end-to-end proposal process to secure new contracts and partnerships.
• Technical Operations & Implementation: Direct the design and deployment of specialized systems, ensuring seamless integration of hardware and software components while maintaining strict compliance with safety and industry standards.
• Process Optimization & Training: Develop comprehensive SOPs and technical documentation to streamline workflows, while designing and facilitating training programs to enhance team performance and operational efficiency.

Company Benefits:
A comprehensive benefits package that includes 70% employer-paid premiums for medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with employer-paid short- and long-term disability and group term life insurance. Financial security is further supported by an employer contribution to the 401(k) plan. Employees also receive paid time off (PTO), paid holidays, and paid parental leave. Additional benefits include an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and access to employer-sponsored supplemental term life insurance. Finally, we ensure competitive pay commensurate with experience and skillset.

NovaSource is an executive search consultancy dedicated to delivering strategic, high-impact results. By anchoring every search in integrity and core competency, we cultivate profound partnerships with both clients and candidates. This rigorous process ensures a synergistic and precise fit, empowering exceptional leadership to drive sustained organizational success.

Company Description

NovaSource is an executive search consultancy dedicated to delivering strategic, high-impact results. By anchoring every search in integrity and core competency, we cultivate profound partnerships with both clients and candidates. This rigorous process ensures a synergistic and precise fit, empowering exceptional leadership to drive sustained organizational success.

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