Perform metallographic sample preparation, wet-chemistry etching, and analysis of ferrous alloys using optical microscopy, SEM-EDS, hardness testing, XRF, carbon/sulfur analysis, borescopes, and load ...
Perform metallographic sample preparation, wet-chemistry etching, and analysis of ferrous alloys using optical microscopy, SEM-EDS, hardness testing, XRF, carbon/sulfur analysis, borescopes, and load ...
Materials Process Engineer Level 3 or 4-Sunnyvale,California
Boulder Creek, CA · On-site
$103K - $155K/yr
Perform metallographic sample preparation, wet-chemistry etching, and analysis of ferrous alloys using optical microscopy, SEM-EDS, hardness testing, XRF, carbon/sulfur analysis, borescopes, and load ...
Materials Process Engineer Level 3 or 4-Sunnyvale,California
Boulder Creek, CA · On-site
$103K - $155K/yr
Perform metallographic sample preparation, wet-chemistry etching, and analysis of ferrous alloys using optical microscopy, SEM-EDS, hardness testing, XRF, carbon/sulfur analysis, borescopes, and load ...
Perform metallographic sample preparation, wet-chemistry etching, and analysis of ferrous alloys using optical microscopy, SEM-EDS, hardness testing, XRF, carbon/sulfur analysis, borescopes, and load ...
Perform metallographic sample preparation, wet-chemistry etching, and analysis of ferrous alloys using optical microscopy, SEM-EDS, hardness testing, XRF, carbon/sulfur analysis, borescopes, and load ...
Lab Technician- II
$20.25 - $26.75/hr
Perform hands-on laboratory work and data analysis under the direction of staff engineers, including fatigue, optical microscopy, polymer analysis and sample preparation. * Provide input regarding ...
Lab Technician- II
$20.25 - $26.75/hr
Perform hands-on laboratory work and data analysis under the direction of staff engineers, including fatigue, optical microscopy, polymer analysis and sample preparation. * Provide input regarding ...
Experience with optical microscopy techniques. * Experience using computers to collect, analyze, and document scientific results, including proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Experience with optical microscopy techniques. * Experience using computers to collect, analyze, and document scientific results, including proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Experience with optical microscopy techniques. * Experience using computers to collect, analyze, and document scientific results, including proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Experience with optical microscopy techniques. * Experience using computers to collect, analyze, and document scientific results, including proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Metallographer/Fractographer - Staff Scientist
Livermore, CA · On-site
$9.8K/wk
Experience with optical microscopy techniques. * Experience using computers to collect, analyze, and document scientific results, including proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Metallographer/Fractographer - Staff Scientist
Livermore, CA · On-site
$9.8K/wk
Experience with optical microscopy techniques. * Experience using computers to collect, analyze, and document scientific results, including proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Tasks may include, but are not limited to, sample preparation, digital optical microscopy, hardness testing, and other techniques for a variety of metal alloys and other materials. This position is ...
Tasks may include, but are not limited to, sample preparation, digital optical microscopy, hardness testing, and other techniques for a variety of metal alloys and other materials. This position is ...
Metallographer Technologist/Senior Metallographer Technologist
Livermore, CA · On-site
$43.55 - $63.97/hr
Tasks may include, but are not limited to, sample preparation, digital optical microscopy, hardness testing, and other techniques for a variety of metal alloys and other materials. This position is ...
Metallographer Technologist/Senior Metallographer Technologist
Livermore, CA · On-site
$43.55 - $63.97/hr
Tasks may include, but are not limited to, sample preparation, digital optical microscopy, hardness testing, and other techniques for a variety of metal alloys and other materials. This position is ...
Experience with one or more of the following additional microanalysis tools: SEM, FIB, TEM, SIMS, x-ray CT, optical microscopy. * Experience applying image processing and statistical analysis to ...
Experience with one or more of the following additional microanalysis tools: SEM, FIB, TEM, SIMS, x-ray CT, optical microscopy. * Experience applying image processing and statistical analysis to ...
Our research projects combine and elevate state-of-the-art technologies including but not limited to optics, microscopy imaging, systems engineering, and biophotonics. We are committed to providing ...
Our research projects combine and elevate state-of-the-art technologies including but not limited to optics, microscopy imaging, systems engineering, and biophotonics. We are committed to providing ...
Postdoctoral Fellow in Bio-Photonics and optical imaging
Bloomington, IN · On-site
$42K - $58K/yr
Our research projects combine and elevate state-of-the-art technologies including but not limited to optics, microscopy imaging, systems engineering, and biophotonics. We are committed to providing ...
Postdoctoral Fellow in Bio-Photonics and optical imaging
Bloomington, IN · On-site
$42K - $58K/yr
Our research projects combine and elevate state-of-the-art technologies including but not limited to optics, microscopy imaging, systems engineering, and biophotonics. We are committed to providing ...
Our research projects combine and elevate state-of-the-art technologies including but not limited to optics, microscopy imaging, systems engineering, and biophotonics. We are committed to providing ...
Our research projects combine and elevate state-of-the-art technologies including but not limited to optics, microscopy imaging, systems engineering, and biophotonics. We are committed to providing ...
Our research projects combine and elevate state-of-the-art technologies including but not limited to optics, microscopy imaging, systems engineering, and biophotonics. We are committed to providing ...
Our research projects combine and elevate state-of-the-art technologies including but not limited to optics, microscopy imaging, systems engineering, and biophotonics. We are committed to providing ...
Experience with one or more of the following additional microanalysis tools: SEM, FIB, TEM, SIMS, x-ray CT, optical microscopy. * Experience applying image processing and statistical analysis to ...
Experience with one or more of the following additional microanalysis tools: SEM, FIB, TEM, SIMS, x-ray CT, optical microscopy. * Experience applying image processing and statistical analysis to ...
Failure Analysis
Mountain View, CA · On-site
... optical microscopy, thermography, device/component photography, and functional testing. • Maintain and update the lab receiving tools to include NPI projects by modifying script parameters to ...
Failure Analysis
Mountain View, CA · On-site
... optical microscopy, thermography, device/component photography, and functional testing. • Maintain and update the lab receiving tools to include NPI projects by modifying script parameters to ...
Our research projects combine and elevate state-of-the-art technologies including but not limited to optics, microscopy imaging, systems engineering, and biophotonics. We are committed to providing ...
Our research projects combine and elevate state-of-the-art technologies including but not limited to optics, microscopy imaging, systems engineering, and biophotonics. We are committed to providing ...
Postdoctoral Fellow in Bio-Photonics and optical imaging
Bloomington, IN · On-site
$45K - $61K/yr
Our research projects combine and elevate state-of-the-art technologies including but not limited to optics, microscopy imaging, systems engineering, and biophotonics. We are committed to providing ...
Postdoctoral Fellow in Bio-Photonics and optical imaging
Bloomington, IN · On-site
$45K - $61K/yr
Our research projects combine and elevate state-of-the-art technologies including but not limited to optics, microscopy imaging, systems engineering, and biophotonics. We are committed to providing ...
Experience with one or more of the following additional microanalysis tools: SEM, FIB, TEM, SIMS, x-ray CT, optical microscopy. * Experience applying image processing and statistical analysis to ...
Experience with one or more of the following additional microanalysis tools: SEM, FIB, TEM, SIMS, x-ray CT, optical microscopy. * Experience applying image processing and statistical analysis to ...
Metallographer Technologist/Senior Metallographer Technologist
Livermore, CA · On-site
$43.55 - $63.97/hr
Tasks may include, but are not limited to, sample preparation, digital optical microscopy, hardness testing, and other techniques for a variety of metal alloys and other materials. This position is ...
Metallographer Technologist/Senior Metallographer Technologist
Livermore, CA · On-site
$43.55 - $63.97/hr
Tasks may include, but are not limited to, sample preparation, digital optical microscopy, hardness testing, and other techniques for a variety of metal alloys and other materials. This position is ...
Optical Microscopy information
See salary details
$11.06 - $13.44
3% of jobs
$13.44 - $15.82
16% of jobs
$16.35 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$15.82 - $18.20
27% of jobs
The median wage is $18.60 / hr.
$18.20 - $20.59
22% of jobs
$22.07 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$20.59 - $22.97
11% of jobs
$22.97 - $25.35
5% of jobs
$25.35 - $27.73
3% of jobs
$27.73 - $30.11
3% of jobs
$30.11 - $32.50
3% of jobs
$32.50 - $34.88
3% of jobs
$34.88 - $37.26
3% of jobs
$11
$21
$37
How much do optical microscopy jobs pay per hour?
What is optical microscopy?
How does an Optical Microscopy Specialist typically collaborate with other scientists and team members in a research setting?
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Microscopy Specialist, and why are they important?
What is the difference between Optical Microscopy vs Electron Microscopy?
| Aspect | Optical Microscopy | Electron Microscopy |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Typically requires a degree in biology, chemistry, or related fields; certification not mandatory | Requires specialized training; often a degree in materials science, physics, or related fields; certifications may be needed |
| Work Environment | Laboratories, research facilities, educational institutions | High-vacuum chambers, advanced research labs, industrial settings |
| Industry Usage | Biology, medicine, materials science, education | Materials science, nanotechnology, semiconductor industry, advanced research |
Optical microscopy is commonly used for biological and educational purposes, providing visualization at the cellular level. Electron microscopy offers higher resolution imaging of nanostructures and materials, suitable for advanced scientific research. Both roles require specialized knowledge but differ significantly in complexity, environment, and application.

$103K - $155K/yr
Full-time
Medical, Life, PTO
Posted 11 days ago
Northrop Grumman rating
8.1
Based on 353 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
108th of 528 rated manufacturers
Job description
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time
Description
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is a trusted provider of mission-enabling solutions for global security. Our Engineering and Sciences (E&S) organization pushes the boundaries of innovation, redefines engineering capabilities, and drives advances in various sciences. Our team is chartered with providing the skills, innovative technologies to develop, design, produce and sustain optimized product lines across the sector while providing a decisive advantage to the warfighter. Come be a part of our mission!
Northrop Grumman's Marine Systems Materials Engineering and Test Laboratory (METL) department is looking to hire a Materials Process Engineer Level 3 or 4. This is a fast-paced environment where the team provides materials engineering support to design engineering and on-site production activities. This team supports all programs within Marine Systems. These include missile launch systems and Propulsion and Power Generation (PPG) across Virginia, Columbia, Ford, Zumwalt, and upcoming platforms. This role will require an onsite presence in Sunnyvale, CA.
We are seeking a Materials Process Engineer Level 3 or 4 with advanced knowledge of metallographic sample preparation for ferrous alloys, wet-chemistry etching, light-optical microscopy, SEM-EDS, hardness testing, XRF, carbon/sulfur analysis, borescopes and load frames, as well as familiarity with commercial testing standards, material specifications and weld codes (NavSea preferred). Experience with non-metallic processes such as FTIR, thermal analysis, rheology, KF titration and paints/coatings testing is a plus, as is knowledge of DoW lifecycle-management procedures.
Key Responsibilities:
- Perform metallographic sample preparation, wet-chemistry etching, and analysis of ferrous alloys using optical microscopy, SEM-EDS, hardness testing, XRF, carbon/sulfur analysis, borescopes, and load frames.
- Conduct non-metallic laboratory tests (FTIR, thermal analysis, rheology, KF titration, paints/coatings) as needed.
- Develop, analyze, and specify material properties, processing methods, fabrication procedures, and design allowables for metallic, non-metallic, and composite materials.
- Execute failure analyses, life-prediction studies, and define material requirement specifications.
- Review/approve subcontractor material-processing procedures and ensure compliance with commercial testing standards, material specs, weld codes (NavSea preferred), and DoD lifecycle-management processes.
- Provide technical leadership for designated laboratory areas.
This position may filled at a Material Process Engineer Level 3 or a Materials Process Engineer Level 4 based on the qualifications listed below:
Basic Qualifications for Level 3:
- Bachelor's Degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math) discipline with 5 years relevant work experience; or Master's Degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math) discipline with 3 years relevant work experience.
- Laboratory Environment experience required.
- Subject matter expertise with metallographic inspection and analysis of ferrous materials, e.g., sectioning parts, mount, prep & etch, light optical microscopy, SEM, hardness evaluations.
- Experience with metallographic inspection and analysis of ferrous materials.
- Knowledge of common commercial testing standards, material specs, and NavSea weld codes.
- Ability to lift 25 pounds.
- US Citizenship required.
- Ability to obtain and maintain Secret Security Clearance.
Basic Qualifications for Level 4:
- Bachelor's Degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math) discipline with 8 years relevant work experience; or Master's Degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math) discipline with 6 years relevant work experience.
- Laboratory Environment experience required.
- Subject matter expertise with metallographic inspection and analysis of ferrous materials, e.g., sectioning parts, mount, prep & etch, light optical microscopy, SEM, hardness evaluations.
- Experience with metallographic inspection and analysis of ferrous materials.
- Knowledge of common commercial testing standards, material specs, and NavSea weld codes.
- Ability to lift 25 pounds.
- US Citizenship required.
- Ability to obtain and maintain Secret Security Clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
- Skills with non-metallics laboratory processes, such as FTIR, thermal analysis, rheology, KF titration, and paints and coatings tests are a plus.
- Experience with DoD processes and lifecycle management processes are also beneficial.
Primary Level Salary Range: $103,600.00 - $155,400.00
Secondary Level Salary Range: $129,300.00 - $193,900.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.
What Northrop Grumman employees say
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About Northrop Grumman
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.
Industry
Space research administration
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Falls Church, VA, US
Year founded
1939