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Fluorescence Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Project Scientist

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Perform flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy, and related analyses. * Analyze and interpret experimental data using appropriate statistical methods. * Prepare reports, presentations, manuscripts ...

Project Scientist

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Perform flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy, and related analyses. * Analyze and interpret experimental data using appropriate statistical methods. * Prepare reports, presentations, manuscripts ...

Spring/Summer Research Assistant

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$21.75 - $30/hr

Responsibilities Embryology, Molecular Biology (plasmid preparation), Microinjection, Microdissection, Imaging, Fluorescence Microscopy, Quantitative Data Analysis. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES (if ...

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Showing results 1-20

Fluorescence information

See California salary details

$8

$25

$60

How much do fluorescence jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for fluorescence in California is $25.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.83 and $30.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are fluorescence jobs?

Fluorescence jobs typically involve using fluorescence techniques in scientific research or industry settings, such as in biology, chemistry, or medical diagnostics. Professionals in these roles may operate fluorescence microscopes, perform assays, analyze data, and develop new methods for detecting and studying fluorescent signals. These jobs are often found in laboratories, universities, hospitals, and biotech companies, and may require specialized training or education in the relevant scientific field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fluorescence microscopist?

To thrive as a Fluorescence Microscopist, you need a strong background in biology, chemistry, or physics, typically with a relevant bachelor's or advanced degree and experience in microscopy techniques. Familiarity with fluorescence microscopes, image analysis software (such as ImageJ or Fiji), and possibly certifications in laboratory safety are essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting data and collaborating with research teams. These skills ensure accurate imaging, reliable data collection, and meaningful scientific discoveries in biological and medical research.

What are some common challenges faced by fluorescence microscopy specialists in a research laboratory setting?

Fluorescence microscopy specialists often navigate challenges such as minimizing photobleaching and phototoxicity during imaging, optimizing sample preparation for clear signal detection, and troubleshooting issues related to instrument calibration and spectral overlap. Collaboration with researchers is key, as specialists may need to tailor protocols for specific experimental needs. Staying updated on evolving imaging technologies and software also helps specialists provide high-quality data and support to their teams.

What is the difference between Fluorescence vs Spectroscopy?

AspectFluorescenceSpectroscopy
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or physics; often involves specialized training in fluorescence techniquesRequires similar degrees; often involves training in various spectroscopic methods
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, biotech companiesLaboratories, research institutions, industrial settings
Industry UsageUsed for imaging, biomolecular analysis, and chemical detectionUsed for material analysis, chemical composition, and molecular interactions

Fluorescence focuses on measuring emitted light from excited molecules, often for imaging and detection purposes. Spectroscopy encompasses a broader range of techniques analyzing how matter interacts with electromagnetic radiation, including absorption, emission, and scattering. While both require similar educational backgrounds and are used in laboratory settings, fluorescence is more specialized for specific applications like biological imaging, whereas spectroscopy covers a wider array of analytical methods.

What job categories do people searching Fluorescence jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Fluorescence jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Fluorescence job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 74% In-person, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,653 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Physicist/Scientist-X-Ray Fluorescence III (E3)

Applied Materials

Benicia, CA • On-site, Remote

$120K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Applied Materials rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 545 rated manufacturers


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: $120,000.00 - $165,000.00 Location: Benicia,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. Key Responsibilities Job Description - Physicist / Inspection Systems Development-X-Ray Fluorescence We are seeking a highly motivated physicist to join our advanced inspection and metrology systems development team. In this role, you will contribute to the definition, design, and validation of next-generation technologies that support innovative products.

Key Responsibilities Define and develop novel inspection system concepts, architectures, and configurations. Design and execute statistically sound experiments; collect, analyze, and interpret data to support development decisions. Engineer, design, and qualify modules and sub-modules for advanced inspection systems.

Develop new or enhanced inspection and metrology solutions for emerging substrate technologies and applications. Conduct research and analysis in physics or related disciplines to support product innovation. Define system requirements and specifications, and troubleshoot complex system-level issues.

Provide expert support for physics-related application and system challenges both in the lab and in the field. Lead or contribute to project planning, including the evaluation and integration of new concepts and approaches into product development. Support product risk management processes by delivering data-driven insights and recommendations.

Participate in vendor selection and collaborate with external partners. Engage with customers on technological topics and provide subject-matter expertise in your domain. Mentor and guide junior physicists and scientists.

Evaluate emerging technologies, market trends, and competitor capabilities to identify new opportunities. Plan and conduct feasibility studies for new technologies, systems, and sub-systems, delivering clear analysis to guide decision-making. Demonstrate new capabilities and perform performance analysis to validate solutions.

Qualifications Advanced degree (PhD or MSc) in Physics or a related field. Strong analytical and experimental skills, including statistical data analysis. Experience in system design, metrology, or inspection technologies is an advantage.

Ability to solve complex technical problems and work across multidisciplinary teams. Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate with internal teams, customers, and external partners. Functional Knowledge Demonstrates conceptual and practical expertise in own discipline and basic knowledge of related disciplines Business Expertise Has knowledge of best practices and how own area integrates with others; is aware of the competition and the factors that differentiate them in the market Leadership Acts as a resource for colleagues with less experience; may lead small projects with manageable risks and resource requirements Problem Solving Solves complex problems; takes a new perspective on existing solutions; exercises judgment based on the analysis of multiple sources of information Impact Impacts a range of customer, operational, project or service activities within own team and other related teams; works within broad guidelines and policies Interpersonal Skills Explains difficult or sensitive information; works to build consensus Additional Information Time Type: Full time Employee Type: Assignee / Regular Travel: Not Specified Relocation Eligible: Yes 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.


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About Applied Materials

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Applied Materials is the global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We're the brain (and the brawn) behind every new technology development--whether it's building semiconductor chips for smartphones and computers, or the underpinnings for robotics, AI and even smart TV display screens. With 27,000 employees in 19 countries, we offer an exciting place to grow and learn alongside some of the best people you'll ever meet. We take deep pride in our Culture of Inclusion, and we celebrate the diverse backgrounds, perspectives and experiences that help us build stronger, more resilient teams. Join us as we innovate to Make Possible a Better Future!

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1967