SOC 17-2131
Materials Engineers
Risk Score
โ ๏ธ34/100
Moderate
US Employment
๐ฅ22,770
Total workers
Median Wage
๐ฐ$108K
$68K โ $172K
Projected Growth
๐+5.7%
2023-2033 (BLS)
GenAI Exposure
๐ค76/100
High exposure
๐ก Materials Engineers face a risk score of 34/100 โ 10 points below the national average of 44. With 76/100 GenAI exposure, this occupation faces significant pressure from AI tools despite strong projected growth. See our methodology โ
๐ก Workers in this field earn $108K ($62K above the national median). The 3 recommended career transitions all maintain competitive wages while reducing automation exposure. Explore transition paths โ
๐ AI Impact Analysis
With a risk score of 34/100, Materials Engineers faces moderate automation pressure. While tasks like large language model automation of analysis tasks are increasingly handled by AI, the role retains significant human elements. The 22,770 workers in this occupation should focus on strengthening skills in safety-critical judgment in design review and cross-disciplinary collaboration on complex projects to stay ahead. The role will likely evolve rather than disappear.
Will AI Replace Materials Engineers?
Read our full analysis with verdict, risk factors, safe tasks, and career transition paths โ
โ ๏ธ Top Risk Factors
Large language model automation of analysis tasks
AI-optimized manufacturing process design
Automated data interpretation and insight generation
๐ก๏ธ Tasks Safe from Automation
Safety-critical judgment in design review
Cross-disciplinary collaboration on complex projects
Client communication and technical consultation
On-site problem-solving in variable physical conditions
๐ Task Automation Breakdown
Based on O*NET task analysis and GenAI exposure scoring. Shows the estimated proportion of this occupation's core tasks that are automatable by current AI, augmented by AI tools, or require essential human skills.
๐ O*NET Task Profile
Analyze product failure data and laboratory test results to determine causes of problems and develop solutions.
Design and direct the testing or control of processing procedures.
Monitor material performance, and evaluate its deterioration.
Conduct or supervise tests on raw materials or finished products to ensure their quality.
Evaluate technical specifications and economic factors relating to process or product design objectives.
๐ป Technology Skills
Analytical or scientific software
Computer aided design CAD software
Object or component oriented development software
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
Development environment software
๐ Key Knowledge Areas
Engineering and Technology
Chemistry
Physics
Production and Processing
Mathematics
๐ vs National Average
National avg: $46K
National avg: 44/100
National avg: 38/100
National avg: 3.7%
๐ Career Transition Paths
| Occupation | Risk | Wage | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineers | 20 | $106K | 78% |
| Electronics Engineers, Except Computer | 29 | $128K | 70% |
| Chemical Engineers | 30 | $122K | 83% |