SOC 17-2131
Materials Engineers
Risk Score
⚠️34/100
Moderate
US Employment
👥22,770
Total workers
Median Wage
💰$108K
$68K – $172K
Projected Growth
📈+5.7%
2023-2033 (BLS)
GenAI Exposure
🤖76/100
High exposure
💡 Materials Engineers face a risk score of 34/100 — 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 →
💡 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 →
🔍 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 →
⚠️ Top Risk Factors
Large language model automation of analysis tasks
AI-optimized manufacturing process design
Automated data interpretation and insight generation
🛡️ 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
📊 vs National Average
National avg: $46K
National avg: 44/100
National avg: 38/100
National avg: 3.7%
🔄 Career Transition Paths
| Occupation | Risk | Wage | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineers | 20 | $106K | 78% |
| Electronics Engineers, Except Computer | 29 | $128K | 70% |
| Chemical Engineers | 30 | $122K | 83% |