Materials Engineers

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 3 (14%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 14 (67%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 4 (19%)

• Perform managerial functions, such as preparing proposals and budgets, analyzing labor costs, and writing reports.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Replicate the characteristics of materials and their components, using computers.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Write for technical magazines, journals, and trade association publications.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Analyze product failure data and laboratory test results to determine causes of problems and develop solutions.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Design and direct the testing or control of processing procedures.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Monitor material performance, and evaluate its deterioration.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Conduct or supervise tests on raw materials or finished products to ensure their quality.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Evaluate technical specifications and economic factors relating to process or product design objectives.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Determine appropriate methods for fabricating and joining materials.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Guide technical staff in developing materials for specific uses in projected products or devices.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Review new product plans, and make recommendations for material selection, based on design objectives such as strength, weight, heat resistance, electrical conductivity, and cost.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Supervise the work of technologists, technicians, and other engineers and scientists.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Plan and implement laboratory operations to develop material and fabrication procedures that meet cost, product specification, and performance standards.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Plan and evaluate new projects, consulting with other engineers and corporate executives, as necessary.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Solve problems in a number of engineering fields, such as mechanical, chemical, electrical, civil, nuclear, and aerospace.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Present technical information at conferences.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Design processing plants and equipment.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Modify properties of metal alloys, using thermal and mechanical treatments.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Supervise production and testing processes in industrial settings, such as metal refining facilities, smelting or foundry operations, or nonmetallic materials production operations.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Conduct training sessions on new material products, applications, or manufacturing methods for customers and their employees.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Teach in colleges and universities.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task · Seen in real AI use