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Engineering · Kentucky

How to Become a Materials Engineers in Kentucky

Materials Engineers in Kentucky earn a median salary of $105,090/year, which is 3% below the national average. Kentucky has a state income tax of ~4.0%. After taxes and rent, a materials engineers takes home approximately $5,097/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$105K
Median salary in Kentucky
-3%
vs. national average
4.0%
State income tax
340
Employed in Kentucky

What a materials engineers can afford in Kentucky

Gross annual salary$105,090
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.0% state tax)$6,509/mo
Median 2BR rent (Kentucky)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home21.7% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$105,090/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$5,097/mo

Becoming a materials engineers in Kentucky

1

Meet education requirements

Materials Engineers positions in Kentucky typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Kentucky. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many materials engineers positions in Kentucky require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Kentucky licensure or certification

Kentucky may require specific licensing or professional certification for materials engineerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Kentucky Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Kentucky

Kentucky employs 340 materials engineers. The highest concentrations are in Louisville/Jefferson County.

Materials Engineers salary by metro area in Kentucky

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Louisville/Jefferson County$97K$46.72/hr60

Materials Engineers salary range in Kentucky

10th percentile (entry)
$80K
25th percentile
$86K
Median (50th)
$105K
75th percentile
$117K
90th percentile (senior)
$132K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a materials engineers make in Kentucky?

The median materials engineers salary in Kentucky is $105,090 per year ($50.52/hr). This is 3% below the national median of $108,310. Salaries range from $80,330 to $132,130.

What are the requirements to become a materials engineers in Kentucky?

Materials Engineers positions in Kentucky typically require Bachelor's degree. Kentucky may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Kentucky licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a materials engineers afford to live in Kentucky?

At the median salary of $105,090, a materials engineers in Kentucky would take home approximately $6,509/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 21.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for materials engineers in Kentucky?

The highest paying metro areas for materials engineers in Kentucky are Louisville/Jefferson County ($97,170). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Kentucky have state income tax for materials engineers?

Yes, Kentucky has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.0%. On a $105,090 salary, this means roughly $4,204/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.