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Particle Accelerator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Prior experience working with particle accelerators, cyclotrons, or similar high-energy physics equipment * Certification in industrial controls (e.g., ISA Certified Control Systems Technician) or ...

Controls Engineer

Lansing, MI

$76K - $98K/yr

The Controls Engineer is responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of control systems used in linear particle accelerators and related radioisotope production equipment. The ...

Experience with linear accelerators, cyclotrons, or other particle beam systems * Strong working knowledge of high-voltage safety practices and lockout/tagout procedures * Knowledge of high-power ...

Controls Technician

Lansing, MI

$27.25 - $36/hr

Experience with linear accelerators, cyclotrons, or other particle beam systems * Previous work supporting medical isotope production or radiopharmaceutical manufacturing * Experience working in ...

Particle Accelerator information

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$9

$38

$58

How much do particle accelerator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for particle accelerator in Michigan is $38.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.52 and $46.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a particle accelerator?

A Particle Accelerator job typically involves designing, operating, and maintaining machines that accelerate charged particles for scientific research, medical applications, or industrial use. Professionals in this field work on beam dynamics, control systems, and safety protocols while collaborating with physicists and engineers. These roles exist in research institutions, universities, and specialized facilities like CERN or national laboratories.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the particle accelerator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Particle Accelerator Operator, you need a strong background in physics or engineering, typically with a relevant degree or equivalent experience in laboratory settings. Familiarity with control systems, SCADA software, vacuum and cryogenic equipment, and safety certifications such as radiation safety training are commonly required. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork make someone stand out in this position. These competencies ensure the safe, precise, and efficient operation of complex accelerator equipment, which is critical for supporting research and experimental outcomes.

How much do particle accelerator operators make?

Particle accelerator operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, education, and location. They often require technical training and familiarity with complex equipment, and may work irregular hours or shifts in research or industrial settings.

What does a particle accelerator do?

A typical day for a particle accelerator operator involves monitoring equipment, adjusting system parameters, and conducting routine maintenance to ensure stable and safe accelerator operation. Operators frequently collaborate with physicists, engineers, and technicians to troubleshoot issues and support ongoing experiments. The role often includes keeping detailed logs, following strict safety procedures, and occasionally working shifts outside standard business hours. This dynamic environment allows team members to contribute directly to cutting-edge scientific research while developing specialized technical skills.

What job works with a particle accelerator?

Jobs that work with a particle accelerator include accelerator physicists, engineers, and technicians who design, operate, and maintain the equipment. These roles require knowledge of physics, engineering, and often specialized training or degrees in related fields. They work in research laboratories, universities, or industry settings focused on scientific experiments or medical applications.
What are the most commonly searched types of Particle Accelerator jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Particle Accelerator jobs in Michigan are:
What job categories do people searching Particle Accelerator jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Particle Accelerator jobs in Michigan are:
Infographic showing various Particle Accelerator job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $80,136 per year, or $38.5 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Accelerator Operator
Who we are…
We are a team of scientists, engineers, technicians, and innovators dedicated to changing the world by developing medical isotopes to treat and eradicate cancer. We believe in building an environment where collaboration, curiosity, and camaraderie thrive. We also enjoy darts, cornhole, ping-pong, chili cook-offs, and other fun events that makes our company a community where we make a life, not just a living.
Who you are…
You are a naturally curious and detail-oriented problem solver who thrives in technically complex, high-responsibility environments. You enjoy understanding how systems work at a deep level and take pride in monitoring, optimizing, and troubleshooting sophisticated equipment to keep operations running smoothly.
Calm under pressure and methodical in your approach, you’re energized by diagnosing issues, interpreting data, and making thoughtful adjustments that improve performance and reliability. You’re a collaborative teammate who communicates clearly and builds trust across disciplines, while also being a self-starter who takes ownership of your work.
You value precision, safety, and accountability, and you’re motivated by contributing to meaningful outcomes through disciplined operations, continuous improvement, and strong teamwork.
What you can expect to work on…
The Accelerator Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of a linear accelerator to support continuous radioisotope production. This position monitors and optimizes beam performance, troubleshoots system issues, maintains control systems, and ensures compliance with GMP and radiation safety standards.
  • Monitor real-time linear accelerator performance, including beam parameters, radiation levels, and system diagnostics, using advanced control software and instrumentation
  • Operate and adjust control systems to optimize production cycles, troubleshooting anomalies to minimize downtime and ensure product quality
  • Conduct routine system checks, calibrations, and preventive maintenance on electrical controls, PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), and associated hardware
  • Collaborate with physicists, engineers, and technicians to implement operational protocols and respond to production demands
  • Maintain detailed logs of operations, incidents, and maintenance activities in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and radiation safety guidelines
  • Respond to alarms and emergencies, executing shutdown procedures, and coordinating with safety teams to mitigate risks
  • Participate in shift rotations, including potential evenings or weekends, to support 24/7 production needs
  • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, such as updating control algorithms or integrating new monitoring technologies
What you need to succeed…
  • Embraces and models the Niowave Core Values of Teamwork, Courage, Integrity, and Upright Zeal
  • Understands how to integrate into a new team/organization – appreciates the history of current state, know how and when to make suggestions, as well as using just the right pace to reach the improved future state
  • Understands your own communication and learning styles, can assess others’ styles, and is able to find the right path to best connect with colleagues
  • Associate's degree or equivalent in electrical engineering technology, industrial controls, physics, or related discipline
  • 2+ years of hands-on experience in electrical systems, industrial automation, or control room operations
  • Strong foundational knowledge in engineering principles, including circuit theory, control systems, and basic physics
  • Proficiency with control software, SCADA systems, or similar interfaces; familiarity with tools like oscilloscopes, multimeters, and diagnostic equipment
  • Displays excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills
  • Possesses ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously while meeting deadlines
  • Is a resilient self-starter, who learns and acts quickly, and has keen attention to detail
Great to have…
  • Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering technology, industrial controls, physics, or a related discipline
  • Prior experience working with particle accelerators, cyclotrons, or similar high-energy physics equipment
  • Certification in industrial controls (e.g., ISA Certified Control Systems Technician) or radiation safety (e.g., NRRPT)
  • Background in pharmaceutical manufacturing or radiochemistry, with understanding of isotope production processes
  • Experience with data analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB, LabVIEW) for optimizing accelerator performance
Other things to know…
  • Full-time position
  • Niowave’s standard operating hours are Monday – Friday 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. with production related activities requiring 24/7/365 shifts
  • This position will be assigned to a shift rotation
  • Niowave has multiple locations within the Lansing area and travel between locations is expected in the role
Please provide a cover letter specifically describing the nature of your background and experience as it relates to this position.