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Film Developing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Thin Film Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$100 - $140/hr

Develop, design and optimize optical thin film deposition processes to meet requirements and specifications, for ion beam sputtering, ion assist and electron beam coating processes for our thin film ...

In the late 1990's under Neil Cohen's leadership, DPI acquired a photo business in the UK and has transitioned from a mid-Atlantic film developing lab to multiple state-of-the-art digital labs ...

Thin Film Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Developing, designing and optimizing optical surface treatments and processes to meet requirements ... our Thin Film Coatings group * Characterizing equipment and processes to reduce downtime

Developing, designing and optimizing optical surface treatments and processes to meet requirements ... our Thin Film Coatings group * Characterizing equipment and processes to reduce downtime

Senior Thin Film Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Developing, designing and optimizing optical thin film deposition processes to meet requirements and specifications, for ion beam sputtering, ion assist and electron beam coating processes for our ...

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Film Developing information

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$48

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How much do film developing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for film developing in the United States is $58.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54.33 and $61.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is film developing?

Film developing is the process of converting exposed photographic film into visible images. This involves a series of chemical baths that make the latent image on the film visible and permanent. The process can be done for both black-and-white and color film, each requiring different chemicals and steps. Once developed, the negatives can be printed onto photographic paper or scanned for digital use. Many professional labs and hobbyists perform film developing to preserve and share their analog photographs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a film developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Film Developer, you need a solid understanding of photographic chemistry, film types, and darkroom procedures, often supported by experience or coursework in photography. Familiarity with film processing equipment, enlargers, scanners, and industry-standard chemicals is crucial. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and problem-solving skills help ensure consistent, high-quality results and address any processing issues. These skills and qualities are essential for preserving image integrity, meeting client expectations, and maintaining safety in the darkroom environment.

What are some common challenges faced by film developers, and how can they be managed on the job?

Film developers often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent chemical temperatures, preventing contamination, and managing varying film types with specific processing needs. Attention to detail is crucial, as even small errors can impact image quality. To manage these challenges, film developers use precise timing, regularly calibrate equipment, and follow strict cleanliness protocols. Working collaboratively with lab technicians and photographers also helps ensure high standards and efficient workflow.

What is the difference between Film Developing vs Film Processing?

AspectFilm DevelopingFilm Processing
DefinitionThe chemical process to convert exposed film into a visible imageThe entire process of preparing, developing, fixing, and washing film
CredentialsKnowledge of chemical handling, photography skillsSimilar credentials, including chemical safety and photography understanding
Work EnvironmentDarkroom or specialized labDarkroom, lab, or processing facility
Industry UsagePart of film photography workflowEncompasses the full film development process

Film Developing specifically refers to the chemical process that reveals the image on exposed film. Film Processing includes the entire workflow, from loading film to final washing. While related, developing is a key step within processing. Both roles require chemical handling knowledge and are performed in darkroom or lab settings, making them closely connected but distinct in scope.

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What states have the most Film Developing jobs? States with the most job openings for Film Developing jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Film Developing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Film Developing jobs are:
Infographic showing various Film Developing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $120,633 per year, or $58 per hour.

Senior Thin Film Engineer

MKS Instruments, Inc.

Irvine, CA โ€ข On-site

$100 - $140/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Overview

A Day in Your Life at MKS: As a Senior Thin Film Engineer at MKS Newport, you will partner with Thin Film Engineering to develop, support, execute and maintain coating designs and processes. In this role, you will report to the Director of Thin Film Engineering.


Responsibilities

  • Develop, design and optimize optical thin film deposition processes to meet requirements and specifications, for ion beam sputtering, ion assist and electron beam coating processes for our thin film coatings group.

  • Work closely with design engineers and technicians to resolve technical issues, troubleshoot and characterize coating chamber processes.

  • Characterize the equipment and coating process, and work with the team to reduce downtime.

  • Manage defect issues, implement root cause solutions, and continuously promote improvement, quality and cost.

  • Support the team with process documentation, training and formalize work instruction documents.

  • Support the coating process and training of technicians and machine maintenance personnel.


Qualifications

  • Bachelorโ€™s Degree in Materials Science, Physics or Engineering with 3-5 years of in-depth experience in a thin film manufacturing environment.

  • Correlate thin film performance with deposition chamber hardware and processes.

  • Experience troubleshooting and problem solving thin film processes.

  • Strong communication skills.

  • Proficiency using Microsoft Excel & PowerPoint.


Physical Demands and Working Conditions

Must be able to remain in a stationary position for extended periods and climb stairs. Constantly operate a computer and other office productivity machinery. Occasionally move/position up to 10 pounds. This job operates in a professional office and laboratory environment.


Compensation and Benefits

Salary Pay Range: $100,000 to $140,000 per year. Bonus: This position is eligible for a discretionary annual bonus, amount to be determined by MKS. Benefits: health insurance coverage (medical, dental and vision), 401(k) with company match, life and disability insurance, 12 paid holidays, sick time, 15 paid vacation days, 6 weeks fully paid parental leave, adoption assistance and tuition reimbursement.


EEO & Equal Employment Opportunity

MKS is an equal opportunity employer, including disability, veteran status and all categories protected by law. MKS will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act and the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers. MKS is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer: diverse candidates are encouraged to apply. Hiring decisions are based on merit, qualifications and business needs. We conduct background checks and drug screens in accordance with applicable law and company policies. MKS is generally only hiring candidates who reside in states where we are registered to do business. MKS is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process due to a disability, contact us at accommodationsatMKS@mksinst.com.

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