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Full Time Pvd Process Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MetOx International, Inc.

Senior Process Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$99.30K - $128.40K/yr

Tunes and optimizes key PVD process parameters including plasma characteristics, ion-assisted ... Partners with engineering, production, and maintenance teams to implement process improvements and ...

Amat

Process Engineer (PVD) IV

Santa Clara, CA · Hybrid

$147K - $202.50K/yr

This role is for PVD process engineer in the PPS organization within HI Role Responsibilities ... Full time Employee Type: Assignee / Regular Travel: Yes, 10% of the Time Relocation Eligible: No ...

Applied Materials

Process Engineer (PVD) IV

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$147K - $202.50K/yr

This role is for PVD process engineer in the PPS organization within HI Role Responsibilities ... Full time Employee Type: Assignee / Regular Travel: Yes, 10% of the Time Relocation Eligible: No ...

Applied Materials

Process Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$124K - $171K/yr

Who We Are Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce ... PVD, CVD, or ALD deposition process Additional Information Time Type: Full time Employee Type:

Amat

Process Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$124K - $171K/yr

Who We Are Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce ... PVD, CVD, or ALD deposition process Additional Information Time Type: Full time Employee Type:

GlobalFoundries

PVD Process Technician

New York, NY · On-site

$43.10K - $70.60K/yr

Process Technicians monitor workstation performance, manage detrimental issues and/or deviated ... Computer - computer sciences, technical, engineering, software knowledge. * Microsoft Suite ...

Globalfoundries

PVD Process Technician

Malta, NY

$43.10K - $70.60K/yr

Process Technicians monitor workstation performance, manage detrimental issues and/or deviated ... Computer - computer sciences, technical, engineering, software knowledge. * Microsoft Suite ...

Applied Materials

Process Engineer II (E2)

Benicia, CA · On-site

$86.50K - $119K/yr

Applied Materials has an immediate need for a full-time process engineer or materials scientist. In ... Running PVD sputtering and e-beam deposition processes * Maintaining PVD sputtering system and ...

Amat

Process Engineer II (E2)

Benicia, CA · On-site

$86.50K - $119K/yr

Applied Materials has an immediate need for a full-time process engineer or materials scientist.In ... Running PVD sputtering and e-beam deposition processes * Maintaining PVD sputtering system and ...

Ionbond

Process Engineer

Beachwood, OH · On-site

Ionbond is seeking a dynamic Process Engineer to join our team. In this role, you'll work closely ... PVD coating operations. * Identify, recommend, and implement improvements in plant performance to ...

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Full Time Pvd Process Engineer information

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How much do full time pvd process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time pvd process engineer in the United States is $92,018.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,500.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time PVD Process Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time PVD Process Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science or engineering, experience with thin film deposition processes, and often a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with PVD equipment, process control software, and statistical analysis tools such as SPC or JMP is typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in troubleshooting and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure efficient process optimization, high-quality product output, and smooth operation within a complex manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Full Time PVD Process Engineers, and how can new hires prepare to overcome them?

Full Time PVD Process Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex equipment issues, maintaining consistent film quality, and adapting to rapidly changing technology in the semiconductor industry. New hires can prepare by developing strong analytical skills, staying updated on the latest PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) advancements, and building effective communication with cross-functional teams like maintenance and quality assurance. Familiarity with data analysis tools and a proactive approach to problem-solving will also help engineers address process variations and optimize production yields.

What is a Full Time PVD Process Engineer?

A Full Time PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) Process Engineer is a professional responsible for developing, optimizing, and maintaining PVD processes used to deposit thin films onto substrates, commonly in semiconductor or manufacturing industries. They work with equipment that uses physical methods, such as sputtering or evaporation, to coat materials with thin layers of metals or other compounds. Their role includes process troubleshooting, quality assurance, equipment calibration, and collaborating with other engineering teams to improve production efficiency and product quality. The position typically requires a background in materials science, chemical engineering, or a related field.

What is the difference between Full Time Pvd Process Engineer vs Full Time Cvd Process Engineer?

AspectFull Time Pvd Process EngineerFull Time Cvd Process Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering or related field, certifications in PVD processesBachelor's in Engineering or related field, certifications in CVD processes
Work EnvironmentCleanroom, vacuum chambers, thin film deposition labsCleanroom, high-temperature reactors, chemical vapor deposition chambers
Industry UsageSemiconductor manufacturing, thin film coatingsSemiconductor fabrication, advanced material deposition

Full Time Pvd Process Engineers focus on physical vapor deposition techniques like sputtering and evaporation, while Full Time Cvd Process Engineers specialize in chemical vapor deposition methods. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments but differ in the specific deposition processes they handle.

What cities are hiring for Full Time Pvd Process Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Full Time Pvd Process Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Pvd Process Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Pvd Process Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Full Time Pvd Process Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Full Time Pvd Process Engineer jobs include:
Full Time Pvd Process Engineer jobs near you
PVD Process Engineer, Solar Cells (Starlink)

PVD Process Engineer, Solar Cells (Starlink)

SpaceX

Bastrop, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 142 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 59 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
PVD PROCESS ENGINEER, SOLAR CELLS (STARLINK)
Starlink believes in providing fast, reliable internet to those that need it most. We design, build, and launch the world's largest and most advanced satellite constellation that is capable of delivering high-speed internet to even the most remote locations.
As a PVD Process Engineer for our solar cell factory, you will spearhead state of the art production processes for an internal solar cell production line, providing high efficiency and high-quality solar cells for both our latest generation Starlink satellites and for Starship missions to the Moon and Mars. You will work through the life cycle of setting up a greenfield solar cell production plant, including equipment procurement, plant design/layout, equipment commissioning and ramp-up, recipe and process development, and working to develop a world-class production team and environment.
As a PVD Process Engineer, you will own the development, optimization, and scaling of Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) processes critical for depositing transparent conductive oxide (TCO) layers, such as ITO, and other thin films essential to high-efficiency SHJ cell performance. You will develop and iterate on the manufacturing processes and recipes to achieve a state-of-the-art silicon cell efficiency, low defect rate and cost, and high reliability cell for space-based applications. Your work will form the backbone of the Starlink network (photons of sunlight in is directly proportional to photons of data out to customers!) and help provide internet to tens of millions of customers all around the world.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Design, qualify, and optimize PVD sputtering processes (e.g., DC/RF magnetron sputtering) for SHJ front and back contacts, ensuring uniformity, adhesion, resistivity, and optical transmission at GW-scale volumes
  • Lead process development for new toolsets and materials, including target management, deposition rate optimization, and defect reduction to support state-of-the-art efficiency cells
  • Responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining new and/or improved manufacturing processes, equipment, technologies, and facilities
  • Analyze production processes and machinery from a first principles, physics-based approach
  • Develop experiments to diagnose and correct manufacturing problems, utilizing robust DOE and statistical methodologies
  • Optimize process conditions and materials to improve the optical and electrical quality of solar cells
  • Perform defect characterization and analysis to determine root cause and develop action plans to improve yields
  • Develop project plans, budgets, and cost/benefit analysis for implementation of new processes or machines
  • Own and perform machine activation and testing with a small team of engineers and technicians
  • Prepare detailed content for technical design reviews, and demonstrate extreme ownership of the production outcome of the Starlink solar factory across yield, uptime, and cost

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline
  • 1+ years of experience in chemical engineering design, analysis, and/or system implementation (internship and extracurricular experience is applicable)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Master's degree or Ph.D. in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, environmental, or other STEM discipline
  • 5+ years of hands-on experience in PVD process engineering, preferably in thin-film solar (SHJ, PERC, or CIGS), semiconductor, or display manufacturing
  • Proven track record of scaling PVD processes to high-volume production (>1GW/year equivalent)
  • Strong understanding of vacuum systems, plasma physics, sputtering dynamics, and thin-film characterization techniques (e.g., XRD, SEM, Hall effect)
  • Experience with SPC, DoE, and lean manufacturing principles
  • Ability to work in a cleanroom environment.
  • Hands-on experience working with complex fluid or mechanical based production systems in a professional setting
  • Experience transitioning products from design to manufacturing and scaling to high volume as part of a cross-functional team
  • Self-motivated with strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills
  • Experience with solar cell manufacturing equipment, such as wet chemical processing equipment, PE-CVD equipment, PVD machines, metallization and final test equipment, and wafer inspection equipment (experience in evaporation tools and ALD tools are a plus)
  • Experience or expertise with perovskite solar cells or perovskite tandem solar cells
  • Experience with micro-structure analysis tools (SEM, TEM, EDX, SIMS, etc.) and optical/electrical characterization tools (UV-VIS, I-V, Resistance, etc.)
  • Expertise in SHJ-specific PVD processes, including low-temperature ITO deposition for bifacial cells
  • Familiarity with advanced PVD tools and automation/integration for inline production
  • Proficiency in data analysis/scripting (Python, R, SQL) and simulation tools (e.g., SIMTRA for sputtering).
  • Experience in cost-of-ownership modeling, CapEx justification, and fab ramp-ups to multi-GW scales
  • Passion for sustainable energy and space technology; prior work in photovoltaics at GW-scale a plus

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Ability to travel frequently for work, potentially for extended periods of time during machine buyoffs and startup
  • Ability to lift 25 lbs. unassisted
  • Lifting, standing, climbing, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, and carrying are generally required to perform the functions of this position
  • Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

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