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Magnetron Sputtering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CUBRC Inc.

Aerospace Instrumentation Technician

Dayton, OH · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Operate vacuum deposition systems (magnetron sputtering) to apply controlled thin-film layers to sensor assemblies * Instrument and build up wind tunnel test articles by installing, aligning, potting ...

First Solar

Development Engineer IV

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Sputtering & Vacuum Expert: Technical expert and innovator in physical vapor deposition (PVD), target selection, magnetron/plasma dynamics, and vacuum systems engineering. * Characterization Mastery:

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How much do magnetron sputtering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 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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PVD Process Engineer, Solar Cells (Starlink)

PVD Process Engineer, Solar Cells (Starlink)

SpaceX

Bastrop, TX • On-site

Other

Re-posted 8 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 61 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:
    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

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