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Plasma Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RF/Plasma Engineer 3

Fremont, CA · On-site

$119K - $220K/yr

The impact you'll make As a RF/Plasma Engineer at Lam, you play a crucial role in designing, building, and troubleshooting cutting-edge radio frequency (RF) solutions for power delivery and plasma ...

CNC Plasma Operator

Fontana, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Plasma Programmer Skills and Abilities: *Good verbal and written communication. *Read and understand diagrams and other work-related materials. *Possess solid mathematical and time management skills.

Thea Energy is seeking a Sr. Plasma Control Engineer to develop and deploy novel plasma control algorithms for the Eos stellarator, with a strong emphasis on AI and ML assisted control, real-time ...

Senior Process Engineer - Plasma

Phoenix, AZ

$103K - $133K/yr

We are seeking R&D-oriented Engineers to join our team in the development and improvement of semiconductor manufacturing equipment, specifically focusing on plasma-based chambers. Key ...

Senior Plasma Control Engineer

Kearny, NJ · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Thea Energy is seeking a Sr. Plasma Control Engineer to develop and deploy novel plasma control algorithms for the Eos stellarator, with a strong emphasis on AI and ML assisted control, real-time ...

Senior Process Engineer - Plasma

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$103K - $133K/yr

We are seeking R&D-oriented Engineers to join our team in the development and improvement of semiconductor manufacturing equipment, specifically focusing on plasma-based chambers. Key ...

Plasma Technologist

San Jose, CA · On-site

$88K - $118K/yr

Plasma Technologist Reports To: CTO Position Type: Regular, Full-Time, Exempt, On-Site/In-Person ... D. in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or ...

As the Plasma Table Programmer/Operator , your primary responsibility is to accurately program and operate the laser and plasma machines. Some of your daily responsibilities as the Plasma Table ...

Plasma Technologist

San Jose, CA · On-site

$88K - $118K/yr

Plasma Technologist Reports To: CTO Position Type: Regular, Full-Time, Exempt, On-Site/In-Person ... D. in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or ...

Sr. Process Engineer

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site

$96K - $124K/yr

Responsible for advanced process development of plasma based etch and deposition processes for a ... Projects will be both individual and as a senior engineer on project teams. Effective communication ...

Plasma-Materials Scientist

Kearny, NJ · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

Thea Energy is leveraging recent breakthroughs in stellarator physics and engineering to create a ... We are seeking a highly motivated Plasma-Materials Scientist to join our team, focusing on plasma ...

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Plasma Engineer information

See salary details

$37K

$87.2K

$136.5K

How much do plasma engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for plasma engineer in the United States is $87,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,500.00 and $97,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes leadership roles or working in high-demand industries.

How much do plasma engineers make?

Plasma engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can be higher for those with specialized skills, certifications, or working in research or industrial settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Plasma Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Plasma Engineer, you need a strong background in physics or engineering, with expertise in plasma science, electromagnetics, and materials science, often supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with simulation tools like COMSOL Multiphysics, vacuum systems, and diagnostic instrumentation is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies enable Plasma Engineers to design, troubleshoot, and optimize plasma systems for applications in industries such as semiconductor manufacturing and energy.

What are some common challenges faced by Plasma Engineers when working on industrial plasma systems?

Plasma Engineers often encounter challenges related to maintaining the stability and uniformity of plasma in industrial systems, as even small fluctuations can affect process outcomes. Troubleshooting complex equipment and ensuring safety protocols due to high voltages and reactive gases are also critical aspects of the role. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—such as process engineers, equipment technicians, and quality assurance staff—is essential for optimizing system performance and resolving technical issues efficiently.

What do plasma engineers do?

Plasma engineers design, develop, and maintain systems that generate and control plasma for applications such as manufacturing, medical devices, and research. They work with high-voltage equipment, vacuum systems, and diagnostic tools, often requiring knowledge of physics, engineering principles, and safety protocols. Their role involves troubleshooting, optimizing plasma processes, and ensuring equipment operates efficiently and safely.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and relevant certifications. Roles in management or with significant technical expertise and responsibility can also reach or exceed this salary level.

What is the difference between Plasma Engineer vs RF Engineer?

AspectPlasma EngineerRF Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field; certifications in plasma technologyBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering or related; certifications in RF systems
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, semiconductor manufacturing, plasma processing facilitiesTelecommunications, wireless, aerospace, and defense industries
Industry UsageSemiconductor fabrication, plasma physics research, materials processingWireless communication, radar, satellite systems

Plasma Engineers and RF Engineers share overlapping skills in electrical and physics principles, often working in high-tech manufacturing and research environments. While Plasma Engineers focus on plasma generation and applications, RF Engineers specialize in radio frequency systems. Both roles require strong technical knowledge and certifications, but they serve different industry sectors and technical functions.

What is a Plasma Engineer?

A Plasma Engineer is a professional who specializes in the study and application of plasma, which is often referred to as the fourth state of matter. They work on the development, operation, and maintenance of plasma systems used in various industries, such as semiconductor manufacturing, materials processing, and energy generation. Plasma Engineers design and optimize equipment and processes that use plasma for tasks like etching, deposition, or surface modification. Their work is crucial in advancing technology in fields such as electronics, aerospace, and energy. They often collaborate with scientists and engineers from other disciplines to solve complex technical challenges.
More about Plasma Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Plasma Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Plasma Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Plasma Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Plasma Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Plasma Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Plasma Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Plasma Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,220 per year, or $41.9 per hour.
RF/Plasma Engineer 3

$119K - $220K/yr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Lam Research rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 421 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

The group you'll be a part of
In the Global Products Group, we are dedicated to excellence in the design and engineering of Lam's etch and deposition products. We drive innovation to ensure our cutting-edge solutions are helping to solve the biggest challenges in the semiconductor industry.
The impact you'll make
As a RF/Plasma Engineer at Lam, you play a crucial role in designing, building, and troubleshooting cutting-edge radio frequency (RF) solutions for power delivery and plasma generation in our Etch and Deposition products. You specialize in utilizing RF as a power source and creating innovative generator designs. Your work paves the way for new power sources to be used Lam's wafer fabrication equipment.
What you'll do
The RF EE designs, develops, modifies, and evaluates electronic parts, components or integrated circuitry for electronic equipment, or other hardware systems and/or electrical engineering applications. Determines design approaches and parameters. Analyzes equipment to establish operating data, conducts experimental tests and evaluates results. Selects components and equipment based on analysis of specifications and reliability. May also review vendor capability to support product development.
  • You will be responsible for performing professional electrical engineering research, design, development, modification, and evaluation in support of electrical and electro-mechanical systems/subsystems.
  • You will work with a multidisciplinary engineering design team: electrical, mechanical, software, process, technical support, and suppliers, on the design, modification, of custom and OEM embedded systems components.
  • You will need to prepare and analyze test plans and procedures to assure that technical and operational requirements are met and properly demonstrated.
  • You will be responsible for the collection and analysis of pertinent material and data in preparation of your presentation at design, project, and program reviews

Who we're looking for
  • Typically requires a minimum of 5 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree; or 3 years and a Master's degree; or a PhD without experience; or equivalent work experience.
  • Primarily responsible for design/selection, testing and documentation of RF delivery systems (100kHz to 100MHz; Watt to Kilowatt ranges).
  • Must have experience with complex RF measurement equipment (Power Meters, Network-, Impedance- and Spectrum Analyzers, etc.).
  • Familiarity with high voltage (>1kV) design rules/practices DC - 100MHz is also desired.
  • SPICE, LabView, MathCAD or MatLab, and analysis tools (i.e. - HFSS, Comsol, Microwave Studio) experience preferred.
  • Experience in or fundamental knowledge of plasma processing, plasma sources and plasma loads is a plus.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills
  • Outstanding analysis and trouble-shooting skills
  • Ability to drive functional requirements and execute in a dynamic-teams environment

Our commitment
We believe it is important for every person to feel valued, included, and empowered to achieve their full potential. By bringing unique individuals and viewpoints together, we achieve extraordinary results.
Lam Research ("Lam" or the "Company") is an equal opportunity employer. Lam is committed to and reaffirms support of equal opportunity in employment and non-discrimination in employment policies, practices and procedures on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, or military and veteran status or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. It is the Company's intention to comply with all applicable laws and regulations. Company policy prohibits unlawful discrimination against applicants or employees.
Lam offers a variety of work location models based on the needs of each role. Our hybrid roles combine the benefits of on-site collaboration with colleagues and the flexibility to work remotely and fall into two categories - On-site Flex and Virtual Flex. 'On-site Flex' you'll work 3+ days per week on-site at a Lam or customer/supplier location, with the opportunity to work remotely for the balance of the week. 'Virtual Flex' you'll work 1-2 days per week on-site at a Lam or customer/supplier location, and remotely the rest of the time.
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Salary
CA San Francisco Bay Area Salary Range for this position: $119,000.00 - $220,000.00.
The above salary range for this position is relevant to applicants that reside or work onsite in the California, San Francisco Bay Area only. Salary offers will depend on factors that include the location you work from, your level, education, training, specific skills, years of experience and comparison to other employees already in this role. Actual salary may vary from salary offered due to numerous factors including but not limited to unpaid time off, unpaid leave, company mandated shutdown, and other relevant factors.
Our Perks and Benefits
At Lam, our people make amazing things possible. That's why we invest in you throughout the phases of your life with a comprehensive set of outstanding benefits.

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About Lam Research

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Lam Research designs and builds products for semiconductor manufacturing, including equipment for thin film deposition, plasma etch, photoresist strip, and wafer cleaning processes.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Fremont, CA, US

Year founded

1980

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