Materials technician
Run tests on materials to see how they can be used to improve products people use every day.
About the job
What it's like
You would run tests on materials to see how they can be used to improve products people use every day. Your work would mean a higher standard of goods could be produced quicker, and people could buy them in the shops for cheaper.Â
The materials you work on could be used to make anything from computers and mobile phones to cars, clothes and furniture.Â
A wide range of different types of companies would use your test results to:
make their products better
remove faults from materials
develop new processes
When studying a material, you would:
test its strength and flexibility
study its chemical makeup
find out about any special features it has
research cost, safety and environmental impact
think about new ways to use the material
write a report on your findings
You would work closely with engineers and scientists from other fields. It would be important to understand engineering drawings and principles.
Hours
You would normally work 37 to 40 hours a week, with the possibility of overtime.
Environment
Depending on your job, you may be based in an office, laboratory or manufacturing plant.
Travel
You may have to travel occasionally between sites and to meet clients.
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Like the sound of this career?
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Materials technician'
Select qualification level(s)
Other careers that you might like
Quality control technician Quality assurance officer
Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Engineering and manufacturing Energy Chemical sciences
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Top specialised skills
These are the top specialised skills that have been found in job vacancies across Scotland. From March 2024 to March 2025.
- soil science
- data recording
- materials testing
- masonry
- laboratory equipment
- test data
- test equipment
- health assessment
- sample management
- cycle counting
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- implementing ideas
- researching
- working with numbers
- problem solving
- written communication
- working with technology
- verbal communication
- cooperating
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Chemistry
Design and Manufacture
Engineering Science
Physics
Practical Craft Skills
Skills for Work: Engineering Skills
Foundation Apprenticeship: Engineering
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
You would need a Modern Apprenticeship leading to a relevant Scottish Vocational Qualification in Process Manufacturing or Engineering Operations (SVQ level 3) or a Higher National Diploma (SCQF level 8) in areas like Chemical Process Engineering.
Employers may ask for qualifications at SCQF level 4 to 6, in particular for entry to a Modern Apprenticeship.
You can enter a Chemical Process Higher National Certificate (SCQF level 7) or Higher National Diploma courses (SCQF level 8) with National 4/5 qualifications and tow Highers or equivalent qualifications.
Qualifications that show understanding and experience of the industry such as Skills for Work Engineering Skills (SCQF level 4) or Laboratory Science (SCQF level 5).
Find the right course for you
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Materials technician'
