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Magnetron Sputtering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vital Chemicals

Senior PVD Equipment Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$128K - $177K/yr

Design and develop PVD equipment and subsystems with emphasis on magnetic sputtering and magnetron configurations. * Lead equipment architecture decisions including vacuum systems, gas and power ...

Infinia Search Inc

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Optical Manufacturing Engineer

Rochester, NY · On-site

$90K - $109K/yr

Conduct development and continuous improvement projects on several coating deposition platforms, including ion beam sputtering, magnetron sputtering, and ion-assisted evaporation. Data mining and ...

Infinia Search Inc

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Manufacturing Engineer (Coating Process)

West Henrietta, NY · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Conduct development and continuous improvement projects on several coating deposition platforms, including ion beam sputtering, magnetron sputtering, and ion-assisted evaporation. Data mining and ...

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Coherent

Staff Optical Coating Process Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$141K - $182K/yr

Have in-depth knowledge of reactive magnetron sputtering processes and their relationship to thin-film growth processes sufficient to understand their effects on optical, structural and mechanical ...

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Magnetron Sputtering information

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How much do magnetron sputtering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for magnetron sputtering in the United States is $19.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is magnetron sputtering PVD or CVD?

Magnetron sputtering is a Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) technique used in thin film manufacturing, including in roles like magnetron sputtering technicians. It involves ejecting material from a target using plasma to deposit coatings onto substrates, and it is distinct from Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD), which relies on chemical reactions in the gas phase. Knowledge of vacuum systems, plasma physics, and cleanroom protocols is essential for jobs in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Magnetron Sputtering Technician, and why are they important?

To excel as a Magnetron Sputtering Technician, you need a solid background in materials science or engineering, experience with thin film deposition, and often a relevant technical degree or certification. Familiarity with vacuum systems, sputtering equipment, process control software, and troubleshooting techniques is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure precise thin film production, minimize equipment downtime, and uphold quality standards in advanced manufacturing environments.

What is a magnetron sputtering system?

A magnetron sputtering system is a type of physical vapor deposition equipment used in thin film manufacturing, including roles like Magnetron Sputtering technicians. It uses a magnetic field to enhance plasma density, increasing deposition efficiency and film quality. Operating such systems requires knowledge of vacuum technology, plasma physics, and safety protocols.

What is the difference between Magnetron Sputtering vs Thin Film Coating Technician?

AspectMagnetron SputteringThin Film Coating Technician
CredentialsTechnical certifications, knowledge of vacuum systemsSimilar certifications, focus on coating processes
Work EnvironmentCleanrooms, vacuum chambers, manufacturing facilitiesCoating labs, production lines
Industry UsageSemiconductors, optics, electronicsOptics, decorative coatings, electronics

Magnetron Sputtering involves specialized vacuum equipment to deposit thin films, often requiring technical certifications. Thin Film Coating Technicians operate coating equipment in similar environments, focusing on applying coatings. Both roles share overlapping skills and work settings, but Magnetron Sputtering specialists typically handle more advanced vacuum systems and process controls.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals operating magnetron sputtering equipment, and how can they be addressed?

One common challenge in magnetron sputtering roles is maintaining the stability and uniformity of thin film deposition, as variations can affect product quality. Professionals often need to troubleshoot issues like target poisoning, arcing, or fluctuations in plasma, which require a strong understanding of vacuum systems and process parameters. Regular equipment maintenance and close collaboration with quality control and engineering teams help in identifying root causes and implementing solutions. Ongoing training and hands-on experience are vital for staying updated with evolving technologies and best practices in the field.

What is the process of DC magnetron sputtering?

DC magnetron sputtering is a thin film deposition process where a direct current (DC) power supply energizes a target material, causing ions from a plasma to bombard the target and eject atoms that deposit onto a substrate. The process occurs in a vacuum chamber with a magnetic field that enhances plasma density and sputtering efficiency, making it suitable for coating conductive materials. Skilled technicians often operate and maintain the equipment to ensure uniform coatings and process stability.

What is the most futuristic job?

A futuristic job related to magnetron sputtering could involve advanced materials research, nanotechnology, or developing new thin-film coatings using automated and AI-driven sputtering systems. These roles often require expertise in vacuum technology, cleanroom environments, and specialized certifications. Such jobs are at the forefront of innovation in electronics, aerospace, and renewable energy industries.

What is magnetron sputtering?

Magnetron sputtering is a physical vapor deposition (PVD) technique used to deposit thin films onto a substrate. In this process, a target material is bombarded with energetic ions in a vacuum chamber, causing atoms from the target to be ejected and deposited onto another surface. The use of a magnetic field helps to confine the plasma, increasing the efficiency and uniformity of the coating. Magnetron sputtering is widely used in the manufacturing of semiconductors, solar cells, and optical coatings because it provides precise control over film thickness and composition.
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Magnetron Sputtering jobs near you

Senior PVD Equipment Engineer

Vital Chemicals

Cupertino, CA • On-site

$128K - $177K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Senior PVD Equipment Engineer
Company Overview
Vital Materials is a global technology organization with operations in over 20 countries, providing advanced materials, products, and solutions across markets including semiconductors, optics, consumer electronics, aerospace, automotive, and energy-related applications. The company is committed to enabling next-generation technologies through materials science and process innovation.
Job Summary
The Senior PVD Equipment Engineer is a senior technical role responsible for the design, development, build, and troubleshooting of physical vapor deposition (PVD) equipment, with a strong emphasis on magnetron sputtering systems. This position supports R&D, pilot-scale, and manufacturing operations, particularly for thin-film deposition of magnetic materials.
Responsibilities
  • Design and develop PVD equipment and subsystems with emphasis on magnetic sputtering and magnetron configurations.
  • Lead equipment architecture decisions including vacuum systems, gas and power delivery, magnetron design, and target assemblies.
  • Oversee build, installation, commissioning, and qualification of sputtering tools.
  • Diagnose and resolve equipment issues related to plasma stability, film uniformity, arcing, target wear, and magnetic field non-uniformity.
  • Support sputtering processes for magnetic and non-magnetic materials in R&D and manufacturing environments.
  • Collaborate with process, materials, and operations teams to optimize tool performance and reliability.
  • Develop and maintain equipment documentation and preventative maintenance procedures.
  • Identify and implement continuous improvement opportunities and equipment upgrades.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or related field (advanced degree preferred).
  • Extensive hands-on experience designing, building, and troubleshooting magnetron sputtering tools.
  • Strong practical knowledge of PVD sputtering processes.
  • Direct experience with sputtering of magnetic materials strongly preferred.
  • Solid understanding of vacuum systems, plasma physics, RF/DC power supplies, and magnetic field design.
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
  • Ability to work independently and lead complex technical projects.

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