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Atomic Force Microscopy Afm Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Semtech

Technician 3, Production

Alhambra, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $22.75/hr

Characterize grating pitch, depth, and uniformity using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). * Analyze grating profile data and ensure process consistency and repeatability. * Maintain and calibrate ...

Semtech

Technician 3, Production

Alhambra, CA · On-site

$27 - $39/hr

Characterize grating pitch, depth, and uniformity using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). * Analyze grating profile data and ensure process consistency and repeatability. * Maintain and calibrate ...

Semtech

Technician 3, Production

Alhambra, CA · On-site

$39/hr

Characterize grating pitch, depth, and uniformity using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). * Analyze grating profile data and ensure process consistency and repeatability. * Maintain and calibrate ...

Verde Bioresins, Inc

Polymer Chemist

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

... Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and polymer rheology · Knowledge of modern plastic manufacturing processes, including injection molding, blow molding, thermoforming, film extrusion/lamination, and ...

Verde Bioresins, Inc

Senior Polymer Chemist

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

... Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and polymer rheology · Knowledge of modern plastic manufacturing processes, including injection molding, blow molding, thermoforming, film extrusion/lamination, and ...

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Atomic Force Microscopy Afm information

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How much do atomic force microscopy afm jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for atomic force microscopy afm in the United States is $111,632.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is atomic force microscopy (AFM)?

Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) is a high-resolution imaging technique used to study the surface topography of materials at the nanometer scale. It works by scanning a sharp probe over the surface of a sample to detect forces between the probe and the sample, creating detailed 3D images of the surface. AFM is widely used in fields such as materials science, biology, and nanotechnology to analyze surface structures, measure mechanical properties, and manipulate nanoscale objects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an atomic force microscopy (AFM) specialist?

To thrive as an Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) Specialist, you need a strong background in physics, materials science, or engineering, often supported by a relevant degree or advanced training. Proficiency in operating AFM instruments, analyzing nanoscale data, and using specialized imaging and analysis software is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, meticulous attention to detail, and clear communication set top performers apart. These competencies are critical for producing reliable, high-quality research results and supporting innovation in nanotechnology and materials analysis.

What are some common challenges faced by atomic force microscopy (AFM) specialists, and how can they be addressed in daily work?

AFM specialists often encounter challenges such as sample preparation difficulties, tip contamination, and achieving high-resolution imaging on various materials. Addressing these issues typically involves careful sample handling, regular calibration and maintenance of the AFM instrument, and troubleshooting scanning artifacts. Collaborating with colleagues in materials science, engineering, or biology can also help in developing customized solutions to complex imaging problems and lead to more reliable results.

What is the difference between Atomic Force Microscopy Afm vs Scanning Electron Microscope Sem?

AspectAtomic Force Microscopy (AFM)Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)
Primary FunctionMeasures surface topography at nanoscale using a cantilever and probeProduces high-resolution images of sample surfaces using electron beams
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, often in materials science, biology, and nanotechnologyLaboratories in materials, electronics, and biological research
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in physics, materials science, or engineeringSimilar educational background, often with additional training in electron microscopy

While both AFM and SEM are used for surface imaging at the nanoscale, AFM provides topographical data through physical contact or proximity, whereas SEM uses electron beams to generate detailed images. The choice depends on the specific application, sample type, and desired data.

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What job categories do people searching Atomic Force Microscopy Afm jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Atomic Force Microscopy Afm jobs are:

Infographic showing various Atomic Force Microscopy Afm job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,632 per year, or $53.7 per hour.

Technician 3, Production

Semtech

Alhambra, CA • On-site

$18.25 - $22.75/hr

Other

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Senior InP Wafer Fab Technician

Location: Alhambra, CA (Onsite)

Position Summary: The Senior InP Wafer Fab Technician is responsible for executing and maintaining wafer fabrication processes for InP-based photonic devices, including DFB lasers and gain chips. This role requires extensive hands-on experience in III-V semiconductor processing, particularly holographic grating fabrication, metallization, and etching processes for InP materials. The technician will support multiple fabrication modules within the wafer fabrication line and play a key role in maintaining stable process operation, repeatability, and manufacturing yield. This position requires strong technical expertise, problem-solving capability, and the ability to work independently in a compound semiconductor cleanroom environment.

Responsibilities:
  • DFB Grating Fabrication and Characterization (35%):
    • Perform grating fabrication for DFB laser structures using holographic lithography methods.
    • Set up and align holographic exposure systems to generate precise grating patterns.
    • Characterize grating pitch, depth, and uniformity using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM).
    • Analyze grating profile data and ensure process consistency and repeatability.
    • Maintain and calibrate holographic exposure and AFM metrology systems.
    • Troubleshoot grating-related defects and process variations.
  • Metallization Process (20%):
    • Operate metal deposition tools including e-beam evaporation systems.
    • Execute metal stack deposition for p-contacts, n-contacts, and device interconnects.
    • Perform metal lift-off processes and inspect pattern quality.
    • Monitor film thickness and deposition uniformity.
    • Maintain process documentation and support troubleshooting of metallization-related issues.
  • Wet and Dry Etch Processing (20%):
    • Perform wet chemical etching for InP and related III-V semiconductor materials.
    • Operate dry etch systems such as RIE or ICP tools for pattern transfer and device definition.
    • Monitor etch rates, profiles, and uniformity.
    • Maintain chemical safety procedures and proper handling of process gases and chemicals.
    • Support optimization and troubleshooting of etch processes.
  • Photolithography Process and SEM Support (15%):
    • Support photolithography processes including resist coating, exposure, and development.
    • Assist in mask alignment and lithography process setup for device fabrication.
    • Operate Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for pattern inspection, feature verification, and process qualification.
    • Perform basic inspection and process monitoring to ensure pattern quality.
    • Work closely with process engineers to maintain stable lithography operations.
  • Process Module Ownership and Fab Support (10%):
    • Own and manage assigned process modules within the wafer fabrication line.
    • Monitor tool performance, uptime, and process stability.
    • Assist with preventive maintenance and troubleshooting equipment.
    • Maintain process documentation and support continuous improvement initiatives.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Associate's degree preferred.
  • Minimum 10 years of hands-on experience in InP wafer fabrication processing.
  • Direct experience with DFB laser and gain chip wafer fabrication in a compound semiconductor manufacturing environment.
  • Strong expertise in InP-based III-V semiconductor fabrication processes.
  • Hands-on experience with DFB grating fabrication using holographic lithography techniques.
  • Proficiency in Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) for grating and surface characterization.
  • Experience with e-beam evaporation and metallization lift-off processes.
  • Strong knowledge of wet chemical etching and plasma dry etching of InP materials.
  • Ability to manage and operate multiple wafer fab process modules.
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in a cleanroom environment.
  • Familiarity with semiconductor manufacturing documentation, safety practices, and process control.

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