ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Plasma Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mattson Technology

RF Engineer 1

Fremont, CA · On-site

... plasma and rapid thermal processing equipment to fabricate integrated circuits for the global ... Job Summary The RF Engineer I is an entry-level engineering professional responsible for supporting ...

Mattson Technology, Inc.

RF Engineer 1

Fremont, CA

... plasma and rapid thermal processing equipment to fabricate integrated circuits for the global ... Job Summary The RF Engineer I is an entry-level engineering professional responsible for supporting ...

All JobsPlasma Physicist JobsEntry Level Plasma Physicist Jobs

Entry Level Plasma Physicist information

See salary details

$39.5K

$94.8K

$226.5K

How much do entry level plasma physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level plasma physicist in the United States is $94,805.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level plasma physicist?

To thrive as an Entry Level Plasma Physicist, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and plasma theory, usually supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in physics or a related field. Familiarity with simulation software (such as MATLAB or COMSOL), laboratory equipment, and data analysis tools is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and present complex findings. These skills and qualities are essential for advancing research, troubleshooting experiments, and contributing to innovations in plasma science.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level plasma physicists when transitioning from academic studies to industry or research labs?

Entry-level plasma physicists often find the transition from academic coursework to hands-on research or industry positions challenging due to the complexity of experimental setups and the need for proficiency with specialized diagnostic equipment and simulation tools. Adapting to collaborative, multidisciplinary teams and managing large datasets can also be demanding. However, most organizations provide mentorship and training programs to bridge these gaps, helping new hires gain practical experience and develop effective communication skills for cross-functional projects.

What is the difference between Entry Level Plasma Physicist vs Entry Level Nuclear Physicist?

AspectEntry Level Plasma PhysicistEntry Level Nuclear Physicist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Physics or related field; some roles may prefer internshipsBachelor's or Master's in Physics, Nuclear Engineering, or related; often requires familiarity with nuclear regulations
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, fusion facilities, universities, or government agenciesNuclear power plants, research labs, regulatory agencies, or defense industry
Industry UsageFusion energy research, plasma diagnostics, space physicsNuclear energy production, safety analysis, radiation physics

Both roles typically require a strong physics background and laboratory experience. While plasma physicists focus on plasma behavior and fusion research, nuclear physicists work with nuclear reactions and radiation. The work environments overlap in research settings, but nuclear physicists often deal with safety and regulatory aspects specific to nuclear energy. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target their skills and career goals effectively.

More about Entry Level Plasma Physicist jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Plasma Physicist jobs?

The most popular types of Plasma Physicist jobs are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Plasma Physicist jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Plasma Physicist jobs are:

Entry Level Plasma Physicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Plasma Physicist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $94,805 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

RF Engineer 1

Fremont, CA • On-site

Mattson Technology
Semiconductor and Electronic Component Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Mattson Technologyexternal

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description


About Mattson
Company: Mattson Technology, Inc., a 38-year Silicon Valley company, designs, manufactures, markets, and globally supports plasma and rapid thermal processing equipment to fabricate integrated circuits for the global semiconductor industry.
Mattson Technology, Inc. offers processing equipment that utilizes innovative technologies to deliver advanced processing capabilities and high productivity for the fabrication of current and next-generation integrated circuits. Our equipment and technologies are used by leading memory and logic, analog /power device manufacturers worldwide. Innovations from Mattson Technology in Atomic Surface Engineering address the most critical logic and memory manufacturing challenges.
In May 2016, Mattson Technology was acquired by Beijing's E-Town Capital. Our new investor's vision is that Mattson Technology, with its Silicon Valley DNA, will continue to operate as a global, market-driven technology provider serving worldwide semiconductor manufacturing customers. In July, 2025, the company successfully listed in Shanghai's STAR Exchange. As the external trade compliance environment evolves, Mattson Technology now operates independently from the parent company in product, business, and operations, serving customers outside of China.
Job Summary
The RF Engineer I is an entry-level engineering professional responsible for supporting the design, development, testing, integration, and validation of radio frequency (RF), microwave, and wireless communication systems. This role assists with the development of RF subsystems, signal transmission solutions, matching networks, amplifiers, antennas, and high-frequency electronic circuits used in commercial, industrial, semiconductor, telecommunications, aerospace, defense, and advanced technology applications.
The RF Engineer I works closely with Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Software Engineering, and Quality teams to support new product development, system integration, laboratory testing, and product qualification activities. This position provides hands-on experience in RF design, measurement, troubleshooting, and product development within a multidisciplinary engineering environment.
Key Responsibilities RF System Development
  • Assist in the design and development of RF and microwave circuits and subsystems.
  • Support development of transmitters, receivers, amplifiers, matching networks, filters, and antenna systems.
  • Participate in RF architecture and design reviews.
  • Assist with component selection and circuit implementation.
  • Support system integration and qualification activities
Manufacturing Support
  • Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering and Operations teams.
  • Support RF production testing and process development.
  • Assist with development of manufacturing test procedures.
  • Resolve RF-related production issues.
  • Improve yield and product consistency
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Physics, or a related technical discipline.
  • 0-2 years of engineering experience, including internships, co-ops, or academic projects.
  • Basic understanding of RF and microwave engineering principles.
  • Familiarity with electronic circuits and signal processing fundamentals.
  • Knowledge of RF measurement techniques and instrumentation.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Effective communication and teamwork abilities.

Apply