How to Become a Materials Engineers in Pennsylvania
Materials Engineers in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $89,160/year, which is 18% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a materials engineers takes home approximately $4,286/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a materials engineers can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a materials engineers in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Materials Engineers positions in Pennsylvania typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many materials engineers positions in Pennsylvania require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Pennsylvania licensure or certification
Pennsylvania may require specific licensing or professional certification for materials engineerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Pennsylvania Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania employs 780 materials engineers. The highest concentrations are in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington and Reading.
Materials Engineers salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $112K | $53.99/hr | 330 |
| Reading | $104K | $49.97/hr | 50 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $97K | $46.8/hr | 40 |
| York-Hanover | $87K | $41.6/hr | 50 |
| Pittsburgh | $84K | $40.59/hr | 180 |
Materials Engineers salary range in Pennsylvania
Materials Engineers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a materials engineers make in Pennsylvania?▼
The median materials engineers salary in Pennsylvania is $89,160 per year ($42.86/hr). This is 18% below the national median of $108,310. Salaries range from $51,100 to $149,710.
What are the requirements to become a materials engineers in Pennsylvania?▼
Materials Engineers positions in Pennsylvania typically require Bachelor's degree. Pennsylvania may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Pennsylvania licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a materials engineers afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $89,160, a materials engineers in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $5,698/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 24.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for materials engineers in Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for materials engineers in Pennsylvania are Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($112,290), Reading ($103,930), Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton ($97,340). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for materials engineers?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $89,160 salary, this means roughly $2,737/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.