1

Electron Microscopist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operate scanning electron microscope for cross-section and top-view, critical dimension (CD), or energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis and imaging * Identify all patterns of interest in ...

Operate scanning electron microscope for cross-section and top-view, critical dimension (CD), or energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis and imaging * Identify all patterns of interest in ...

Process Technician IV

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$33 - $45.70/hr

Operate scanning electron microscope for cross-section and top-view, critical dimension (CD), or energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis and imaging * Identify all patterns of interest in ...

Recommends performance of process system and troubleshooting. - Prepare cross section samples for scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis and help / guide requestor to optimize sample prep ...

Process Technician IV

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$33 - $45.70/hr

Operate scanning electron microscope for cross-section and top-view, critical dimension (CD), or energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis and imaging * Identify all patterns of interest in ...

Qualifications: · Understand basic scanning electron microscope (SEM) principle. · Other Requirements: This is a physically demanding position that often requires extensive walking, standing for ...

Prepare Scanning Transmission Electron Microscope (STEM) and Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) samples. Submit TEM requests for full analytic work. Save images and write detailed reports.

Process Technician III

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$29 - $39.60/hr

Operate scanning electron microscope for cross-section and top-view, critical dimension (CD), or energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis and imaging * Identify all patterns of interest in ...

Operate scanning electron microscope for cross-section and top-view, critical dimension (CD), or energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis and imaging * Identify all patterns of interest in ...

Operate scanning electron microscope for cross-section and top-view, critical dimension (CD), or energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis and imaging * Identify all patterns of interest in ...

Operate scanning electron microscope for cross-section and top-view, critical dimension (CD), or energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis and imaging * Identify most patterns of interest in ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Electron Microscopist information

See salary details

$11K

$71K

How much do electron microscopist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for electron microscopist in the United States is $70,000.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $70,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges an Electron Microscopist faces when preparing samples for analysis?

Sample preparation is a critical and often challenging aspect of an Electron Microscopist's role. Achieving the right thickness, cleanliness, and structural integrity without introducing artifacts requires precision and patience, especially for delicate or complex materials. The process can be time-consuming and may involve troubleshooting issues like contamination, charging, or beam damage. Collaborating closely with researchers or engineers is also essential to ensure the sample preparation aligns with the specific analytical goals of each project.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Electron Microscopist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Electron Microscopist, you need a solid background in materials science, biology, or physics, typically supported by a relevant degree and hands-on laboratory experience. Proficiency with transmission and scanning electron microscopes (TEM and SEM), image analysis software, and sample preparation techniques is essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are key soft skills that enhance data interpretation and collaboration. These competencies ensure precise imaging, reliable scientific results, and the ability to contribute meaningful insights in research or industrial settings.

What is an Electron Microscopist?

An Electron Microscopist is a scientist or technician who operates electron microscopes to analyze the structure and composition of materials at extremely high magnifications. They prepare samples, capture images, and interpret data to help researchers understand microscopic structures in fields like biology, materials science, and nanotechnology. Electron Microscopists often work in research labs, universities, and industry settings, supporting projects ranging from disease research to the development of new materials.

What is the difference between Electron Microscopist vs Microbiologist?

AspectElectron MicroscopistMicrobiologist
Required CredentialsDegree in biology, chemistry, or related field; training in electron microscopyDegree in microbiology, biology, or related field; laboratory certifications
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, industrial labs, universities using electron microscopesLaboratories, healthcare settings, research institutions
Industry UsageMaterial science, nanotechnology, biological researchHealthcare, environmental, food safety, disease research

The main difference is that Electron Microscopists specialize in using electron microscopes to analyze samples at a microscopic level, often in material or biological research, while Microbiologists focus on studying microorganisms, often in healthcare or environmental contexts. Both roles require a strong scientific background, but their tools and focus areas differ significantly.

More about Electron Microscopist jobs
What states have the most Electron Microscopist jobs? States with the most job openings for Electron Microscopist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Electron Microscopist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Electron Microscopist jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Electron Microscopist jobs? For Electron Microscopist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Electron Microscopist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 1% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 96% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,000 per year, or $33.7 per hour.

Process Technician IV

Amat

Santa Clara, CA

$33 - $45.70/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Who We Are

Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips - the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that literally connect our world - like AI and IoT. If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world.

What We Offer

Salary:

$33.00 - $45.70

Location:

Santa Clara,CA

You'll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible-while learning every day in a supportive leading global company. Visit our Careers website to learn more.

At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We're committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go. Learn more about our benefits.

As a Process Technician, you'll be responsible for preparing wafers for experimentation, operating reactors to perform thin film processes, and using scanning electron microscopes for analyses and imaging. You'll record process conditions and experimental observations, perform routine maintenance procedures, and evaluate wafers and thin films. Process Technicians are tasked with preparing cross-section samples for analysis, identifying patterns of interest in imaging, and operating laboratory process equipment and instrumentation. Your expertise in troubleshooting, equipment maintenance, and process optimization drives higher levels of productivity, quality, and efficiency in our manufacturing processes.

Role Responsibilities:

  • Prepare wafers for experimentation to include cleaning and preparation of reactors

  • Operate reactors to perform thin film processes and evaluates performance of process systems; recommends troubleshooting procedures

  • Prepare cross-section samples for scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis; optimize sample prep procedure and conditions and identify cut location based on pattern instructions

  • Record process conditions and experimental observations; evaluate wafers and thin films to include modifications of process recipes. Prepare graphs and tables summarizing results

  • Operate scanning electron microscope for cross-section and top-view, critical dimension (CD), or energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis and imaging

  • Identify all patterns of interest in imaging and understand image quality requirements and sample/beam interaction to determine optimized condition

  • Understand basic scanning electron microscope (SEM) principles

  • Responsible for all technology products

  • Perform scanning electron microscope (SEM) system software alignment functions and routine maintenance procedures including flash and plasma clean

  • Interface with requestors, understand detail requirements, and communicate on results; monitor Wafer In Process and maintain throughput

  • Check performance of process system; order equipment and supplies, and coordinate with vendors and purchasing. Coordinate wafer evaluations and instrument repair and maintenance

  • Perform routine shut down procedure and set up equipment for experiments

  • Use quantitative wafer evaluation and process instrumentation knowledge to draw conclusions from data. Assists in training junior technicians.

  • Develop and publish best known method (BKM) procedures including sample prep, scanning electron microscope (SEM) conditions, and special sample handling


Minimum Qualifications:

  • Technical Diploma

  • 4-7 years of experience


Physical Requirements:

This position often requires extensive walking, standing for extended periods of time, working in tight spaces, bending, squatting, twisting, kneeling, reaching, climbing stairs and ladders, working at height, lifting up to 35 lbs., the ability to distinguish between colors and working with electricity, the ability to work in an environment with noise that may be difficult for some individuals with sensitivity to noise, and the use of hand and power tools. Additionally, because this position generally involves working in a clean room, it requires the use of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment such as coveralls, hoods, booties, safety glasses, gloves, respirators, chemical aprons, and face shields.

Additional Information

Time Type:

Full time

Employee Type:

Assignee / Regular

Travel:

Relocation Eligible:

No

The salary offered to a selected candidate will be based on multiple factors including location, hire grade, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and with consideration of internal equity of our current team members. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable.

For all sales roles, the posted salary range is the Target Total Cash (TTC) range for the role, which is the sum of base salary and target bonus amount at 100% goal achievement.

Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.

In addition, Applied endeavors to make our careers site accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact us via e-mail at Accommodations_Program@amat.com, or by calling our HR Direct Help Line at 877-612-7547, option 1, and following the prompts to speak to an HR Advisor. This contact is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.