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Laser Plasma Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Plasma-Materials Scientist

Kearny, NJ · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in the research and development of plasma ... laser-based diagnostics, and electrostatic probes. * Experience with surface analysis techniques ...

The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in the research and development of plasma ... laser-based diagnostics, and electrostatic probes. * Experience with surface analysis techniques ...

$52K - $73K/yr

... research spanning laser-plasma science, engineering, and computation. The role will also contribute to the development of new initiatives, partnerships, and program activities that support the ...

Senior Scientist - EUV Research

San Diego, CA · On-site

$104K - $133K/yr

Based on a laser produced plasma (LPP), our light source relies on a wide range of unique and ... Deep understanding of scientific research methods and strong scientific curiosity, with ...

Scientist III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$98K - $171K/yr

... laser technologies. The DIII-D National Fusion Facility is the flagship for fusion research in the ... Performs research and development efforts in development of new plasma diagnostic techniques.

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Laser Plasma Researcher information

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$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do laser plasma researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for laser plasma researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a laser plasma researcher?

Laser Plasma Researchers are scientists who study the interactions between lasers and plasma, which is a state of matter consisting of ionized gas. They investigate how high-intensity laser beams can create and manipulate plasma, leading to advancements in fields such as nuclear fusion, particle acceleration, and materials science. Their work often involves conducting experiments in laboratories, analyzing data, and developing new technologies based on laser-plasma interactions. These researchers contribute to scientific innovation in energy, medicine, and industrial applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a laser plasma researcher?

To thrive as a Laser Plasma Researcher, a solid background in physics or engineering, often at the Ph.D. level, and deep knowledge of plasma physics and laser-matter interaction are essential. Expertise in using high-powered laser systems, diagnostic equipment, and simulation software like MATLAB or COMSOL, along with relevant safety certifications, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication skills help researchers excel in collaborative and innovative environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for advancing experimental research, ensuring safety, and effectively sharing findings in this complex scientific field.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by laser plasma researchers in experimental settings?

Laser Plasma Researchers often encounter challenges related to maintaining precise control over experimental conditions, such as laser alignment, target uniformity, and diagnostic calibration. Working with high-powered lasers and sensitive instrumentation requires meticulous attention to safety protocols and equipment maintenance. Additionally, interpreting complex data and troubleshooting unexpected results are frequent aspects of the role, requiring strong problem-solving skills and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.
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What cities are hiring for Laser Plasma Researcher jobs?

Cities with the most Laser Plasma Researcher job openings:

What states have the most Laser Plasma Researcher jobs?

States with the most job openings for Laser Plasma Researcher jobs include:

Infographic showing various Laser Plasma Researcher job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Research Scientist - Plasma Light Source Development

KLA Corporation

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

$105K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Company Overview
KLA is a global leader in diversified electronics for the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. Virtually every electronic device in the world is produced using our technologies. No laptop, smartphone, wearable device, voice-controlled gadget, flexible screen, VR device or smart car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits, packaging, printed circuit boards and flat panel displays. The innovative ideas and devices that are advancing humanity all begin with inspiration, research and development. KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem-solvers work together with the world's leading technology providers to accelerate the delivery of tomorrow's electronic devices. Life here is exciting and our teams thrive on tackling really hard problems. There is never a dull moment with us.
Group/Division
With over 40 years of semiconductor process control experience, chipmakers around the globe rely on KLA to ensure that their fabs ramp next-generation devices to volume production quickly and cost-effectively. Enabling the movement towards advanced chip design, KLA's Global Products Group (GPG), which is responsible for creating all of KLA's metrology and inspection products, is looking for the best and the brightest research scientist, software engineers, application development engineers, and senior product technology process engineers. Central Engineering is KLA's largest engineering organization comprised of 9 Centers-of-Excellence (CoE) in various disciplines applied across all product groups in the company. These CoE include Handling & Automation, Precision Motion Control, Sensors & Image Acquisition, Platform Design, and Packaging Engineering, among others. Talent includes over 500 engineers across global centers in Israel, China, India, and the US. Each CoE contributes not just talent and deliverables per discipline toward product programs, but also subject matter expertise, best practices, roadmaps, specialized facilities, apparatus, models, and analytics. These differentiate KLA not only in WHAT we do, but also in HOW we do it.
Job Description/Preferred Qualifications
KLA is looking for a Research Scientist in our Central Engineering Group in Ann Arbor! The Scientist will work on experimental development of next generation laser sustained plasma light sources in sub-UV wavelength region for new light source concepts. The candidate will work in a team that develops the technical foundation of KLA's next generation wafer inspection tools!
  • Lead design and setup photometric tooling including spectrometers, imagers, and photometers
  • Process and analyze spectral data from plasma light sources
  • Design, build, test, and operation of complex laser, optical, vacuum, high pressure test setups.
  • Data collection and processing using tools like Python, LabVIEW, Matlab and similar.
  • Design experiments to retire risks and validate critical subsystems.
  • Evaluate feasibility of new concepts design solutions.
  • Develop specifications of future tools.
  • Find and engage new suppliers and help coordinate technology development with external partners.
  • Collaborate with internal customers and key collaborators in technical projects and present results to a wider audience.
  • Hands-on problem solving and maintenance of engineering prototype systems.

Qualifications/Desired Skills:
  • Experience in plasma spectroscopy and spectral analysis of plasma light sources
  • Experience in designing and constructing optical metrology setups for photometry and spectroscopy
  • Expertise in operation of high-power lasers and knowledge of laser-safety protocols, experience with laser alignment and diagnostics
  • Hands-on experience in optics and mechatronics, including opto-mechanical systems applications, expertise in design of optical systems
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving
  • Knowledge of data acquisition and control approaches
  • Proficiency in data analysis and root-cause analysis
  • Experience in optical system modeling and performance analysis using one or more optics modeling packages (e.g. Zemax, Code V, etc.)
  • Solid understanding of a design, tolerancing and testing of optical systems and modules
  • Ability to travel internationally for training and supplier engagements

Minimum Qualifications
Doctorate (Academic) Degree and 0 years related work experience; Master's Level Degree and related work experience of 3 years; Bachelor's Level Degree and related work experience of 5 years
Base Pay Range: $105,900.00 - $180,000.00 Annually
Primary Location: USA-MI-Ann Arbor-KLA
KLA's total rewards package for employees may also include participation in performance incentive programs and eligibility for additional benefits including but not limited to: medical, dental, vision, life, and other voluntary benefits, 401(K) including company matching, employee stock purchase program (ESPP), student debt assistance, tuition reimbursement program, development and career growth opportunities and programs, financial planning benefits, wellness benefits including an employee assistance program (EAP), paid time off and paid company holidays, and family care and bonding leave.
Interns are eligible for some of the benefits listed. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed reflects the pay for this position in the primary location identified in this posting. Actual pay depends on several factors, including state minimum pay wage rates, location, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education level or training. We are committed to complying with all applicable federal and state minimum wage requirements where applicable. If applicable, your recruiter can share more about the specific pay range for your preferred location during the hiring process.
KLA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will ensure that qualified individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us at talent.acquisition@kla.com or at +1-408-352-2808 to request accommodation.
Be aware of potentially fraudulent job postings or suspicious recruiting activity by persons that are currently posing as KLA employees. KLA never asks for any financial compensation to be considered for an interview, to become an employee, or for equipment. Further, KLA does not work with any recruiters or third parties who charge such fees either directly or on behalf of KLA. Please ensure that you have searched KLA's Careers website for legitimate job postings. KLA follows a recruiting process that involves multiple interviews in person or on video conferencing with our hiring managers. If you are concerned that a communication, an interview, an offer of employment, or that an employee is not legitimate, please send an email to talent.acquisition@kla.com to confirm the person you are communicating with is an employee. We take your privacy very seriously and confidentially handle your information.