π‘ Materials Engineers have a composite risk score of 34/100 (Frey-Osborne probability: 2%, GenAI exposure: 76/100). With 22,770 workers in the US, this occupation faces moderate but manageable AI pressure. Full occupation profile β
π― The Verdict
Partially. Some tasks will be automated, but the core role will likely adapt and evolve.
With 22,770 workers and a median wage of $108K,materials engineers represent a significant portion of the US workforce. Their GenAI exposure index is 76%, meaning a majority of their core tasks overlap with current generative AI capabilities.
Risk Score
34/100
Employment
22,770
Median Wage
$108K
GenAI Exposure
76%
β οΈ Top Risk Factors
Large language model automation of analysis tasks
AI-optimized manufacturing process design
Automated data interpretation and insight generation
π‘οΈ Tasks AI Can't Easily Replace
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
π Career Transition Paths
Related occupations with lower AI risk and high skills overlap:
Engineers
78% skills overlap Β· $106K median wage
Electronics Engineers, Except Computer
70% skills overlap Β· $128K median wage
Chemical Engineers
83% skills overlap Β· $122K median wage
β Frequently Asked Questions
Will AI completely replace materials engineers?
Partially. Some tasks will be automated, but the core role will likely adapt and evolve.
What is the AI risk score for materials engineers?
Materials Engineers have a composite AI automation risk score of 34 out of 100, classified as "Moderate".
How many materials engineers are there in the US?
There are approximately 22,770 materials engineers employed in the United States.
What do materials engineers earn?
The median annual wage for materials engineers is $108K.
What skills should materials engineers develop?
Focus on tasks AI can't easily replicate: 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. These human-centric skills will become more valuable as routine tasks are automated.