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Physics Startup Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

... startup, and benchmarking. Identifies and implements processes to drive efficiency, cost ... PhD in Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field, and 4+ years of ...

Develop and maintain detailed micro schedules for new factory startup activities, including key ... Physics, or a related technical field. Experience listed above should be a combination of the ...

What you'll be working on * Support ASM tools through installation, startup, qualification ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Physics ...

Senior Thin Films Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$54.75 - $70.75/hr

Comprehensive knowledge of process development, materials science, and device physics * Ability to ... Comprehensive fab startup experience across manufacturing, quality, RandD, and supply chain ...

What you'll be working on * Support ASM tools through installation, startup, qualification ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Physics ...

... Physics or related STEM field of study with 4+ years of experience, or Master's degree with 3+ ... Programing Experience in JMP/JSL, Python, R and SQL * 2+ yrs of New Technology startup experience ...

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Physics Startup information

See Arizona salary details

$4

$18

$23

How much do physics startup jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics startup in Arizona is $18.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.63 and $23.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a physics startup?

A physics startup is a company that leverages advancements in physics to develop new technologies, products, or services. These startups often focus on innovative solutions in areas like quantum computing, advanced materials, medical devices, or energy. Physics startups typically emerge from academic research or collaborations and aim to commercialize scientific breakthroughs. They play a crucial role in bringing cutting-edge physics research to market, driving technological progress and economic growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive at a physics startup, and why are they important?

To thrive at a physics startup, you need a strong background in physics or engineering, problem-solving abilities, and preferably an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with simulation software, lab instrumentation, and data analysis tools—as well as experience with prototyping and product development—are often essential. Initiative, adaptability, and strong collaboration skills help individuals excel in the dynamic and fast-paced environment of a startup. These skills enable innovative solutions, efficient progress, and effective teamwork, which are crucial for the success and growth of a physics-focused startup.

What are some typical challenges faced when working at a physics startup, and how can I prepare for them?

Working at a physics startup often involves navigating rapid changes, limited resources, and a need for creative problem-solving. You'll likely be required to wear multiple hats, adapt quickly, and contribute outside your core area of expertise. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as teams are typically small and highly collaborative. Preparing by developing flexibility, strong project management skills, and a proactive attitude will help you thrive in this dynamic environment.

What is the difference between Physics Startup vs Physics Research Scientist?

AspectPhysics StartupPhysics Research Scientist
Required CredentialsTypically requires a Bachelor's or Master's in Physics or related field; some roles may prefer PhDUsually requires a PhD in Physics or a closely related discipline
Work EnvironmentFast-paced, entrepreneurial, often in office or lab settings, with a focus on product development or innovationAcademic or institutional labs, research centers, with focus on experiments and theoretical work
Employer & Industry UsageStartups, tech companies, R&D firms focusing on new technologies or applicationsUniversities, government labs, research institutions

Physics startups focus on applying physics principles to develop new products or technologies in a dynamic environment, often requiring entrepreneurial skills. Physics research scientists primarily conduct experiments and theoretical research in academic or institutional settings. Both roles require strong physics backgrounds but differ in work environment and objectives.

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Physics Startup jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Physics Startup job openings:

Infographic showing various Physics Startup job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,888 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Junior Coatings Scientist PECVD / DLC

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$63K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description


Position Overview
We are seeking a motivated, detail-oriented Junior Coatings Scientist to join our advanced materials development team. In this role, you will work directly alongside a Senior Scientist to develop, optimize, and scale cutting-edge Plasma-Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (PECVD) processes, with a primary focus on Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coatings.
 
This is an exceptional opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career professional to gain hands-on, expert mentorship in thin-film deposition, advanced plasma physics, and industrial surface engineering. You will play a vital role in taking new deposition systems from initial power-on through comprehensive process validation, directly contributing to the growth of our production capabilities.
 
Key Responsibilities
  • Equipment Commissioning & Turn-on: Assist senior engineering staff in the physical installation, initial powering, and sub-system testing of new PECVD and vacuum deposition hardware.
  • System Validation (IQ/OQ/PQ): Participate in structured equipment validation protocols, including vacuum leak testing, gas flow calibration, power supply tuning, and plasma stability testing.
  • Process Development & Scaling: Assist the Senior Scientist in designing, running, and optimizing PECVD coating recipes and surface preparation to achieve targeted mechanical, tribological, and structural properties.
  • Analytical Characterization: Perform routine thin-film characterization to evaluate coating quality, including thickness, hardness, adhesion (scratch testing), friction coefficients, and microstructure.
  • Data Analysis & Documentation: Meticulously log validation metrics, process parameters, and analytical test results to build a robust baseline for new machinery.
  • Troubleshooting & Maintenance: Assist in diagnosing hardware anomalies during the commissioning phase, monitoring plasma stability, and establishing baseline preventive maintenance routines.
 
Qualifications & Skills
Required:
  • Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related STEM discipline.
  • Core Knowledge: Strong foundational understanding of materials characterization, surface science, and thin-film concepts.
  • Hands-on Aptitude: Comfort working around mechanical hardware, vacuum systems, gas delivery lines, or high-power electronics.
  • Methodical Execution: High attention to detail required for following strict equipment startup sequences, validation checklists, and safety protocols.
  • Analytical Mindset: Excellent data collection and documentation habits; proficiency with technical writing and data analysis. 
Preferred (Nice-to-Have):
  • Direct undergraduate or internship experience with vacuum technology, plasma processing, or physical/chemical vapor deposition (PVD/CVD).
  • Familiarity with equipment validation procedures, sensor calibration, or mass flow controller (MFC) verification.
  • Basic understanding of plasma diagnostics, power matching, or hollow cathode technology.

What We Offer
  • Direct mentorship from industry-leading experts in DLC and advanced plasma technology.
  • A fast-paced, collaborative R&D environment using state-of-the-art industrial coating systems.
  • High-impact experience involved in the ground-up deployment and qualification of new industrial technology.