How to Become a Materials Engineers in Illinois
Materials Engineers in Illinois earn a median salary of $105,980/year, which is 2% below the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a materials engineers takes home approximately $5,063/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a materials engineers can afford in Illinois
Becoming a materials engineers in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Materials Engineers positions in Illinois typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many materials engineers positions in Illinois require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Illinois licensure or certification
Illinois may require specific licensing or professional certification for materials engineerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Illinois Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Illinois
Illinois employs 180 materials engineers. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin.
Materials Engineers salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $98K | $47/hr | 180 |
Materials Engineers salary range in Illinois
Materials Engineers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a materials engineers make in Illinois?▼
The median materials engineers salary in Illinois is $105,980 per year ($50.95/hr). This is 2% below the national median of $108,310. Salaries range from $67,040 to $173,990.
What are the requirements to become a materials engineers in Illinois?▼
Materials Engineers positions in Illinois typically require Bachelor's degree. Illinois may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Illinois licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a materials engineers afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $105,980, a materials engineers in Illinois would take home approximately $6,475/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 21.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for materials engineers in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for materials engineers in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($97,760). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for materials engineers?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $105,980 salary, this means roughly $5,246/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.