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Magnetron Sputtering Jobs in California (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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

All JobsMagnetron Sputtering JobsMagnetron Sputtering Jobs in California

Magnetron Sputtering information

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a magnetron sputtering technician?

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Magnetron Sputtering jobs in California?

For Magnetron Sputtering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

The top searched job categories for Magnetron Sputtering jobs in California are:

Magnetron Sputtering jobs near you

Senior PVD Equipment Engineer

Vital Chemicals

Cupertino, CA • On-site

$128K - $177K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 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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