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Plasma Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

VPE Thermal LLC

$24 - $28/hr

Interpret Engineering Drawings * Forklift and rig parts into correct orientation for Plasma Cut * Ability to work long hours on feet wearing breathing respirators and earing protection while machine ...

Mycronic USA

Chemical Engineer

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Chemical Engineer Do you want to be part of an organization on the cutting edge of technology? W ... Our automated plasma systems provide highly effective surface cleaning, activation, and metal oxide ...

Mycronic USA

Chemical Engineer

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Chemical Engineer Do you want to be part of an organization on the cutting edge of technology? W ... Our automated plasma systems provide highly effective surface cleaning, activation, and metal oxide ...

Mycronic USA

Chemical Engineer

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

Chemical Engineer Do you want to be part of an organization on the cutting edge of technology? W ... Our automated plasma systems provide highly effective surface cleaning, activation, and metal oxide ...

Amat

Senior RF Systems Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$161K - $221K/yr

Plasma-RF Performance Optimization * Partner closely with plasma and process engineers to understand RF-plasma interactions. * Analyze and improve: * Plasma ignition characteristics * RF coupling ...

Paradigminfotech

RF Design Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

Minimum 5 years experience with RF plasma power provision systems including RF and VHF generators ... RF or radio engineer training either in military services or technical school electrical ...

Nokia

Equipment Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$120K - $171K/yr

Strong hands on experience with AMAT P5000 and other plasma tools * Familiarity with safety ... MS or BS degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials ...

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All JobsPlasma Engineer JobsPlasma Engineer Jobs in California

Plasma Engineer information

See California salary details

$36.5K

$86.1K

$134.7K

How much do plasma engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for plasma engineer in California is $86,077.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $96,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a plasma engineer?

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 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.

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. Advanced skills in plasma physics, laboratory equipment, and certifications can influence earning potential, especially in research or industrial settings.

What are popular job titles related to Plasma Engineer jobs in California?

For Plasma Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Plasma Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Plasma Engineer jobs in California are:

Plasma Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plasma Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,077 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Applications Development Engineer (Broadband Plasma Division)

Kla

Milpitas, CA

$97K - $166K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Company Overview

KLA is a global leader in diversified electronics for the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. Virtually every electronic device in the world is produced using our technologies. No laptop, smartphone, wearable device, voice-controlled gadget, flexible screen, VR device or smart car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits, packaging, printed circuit boards and flat panel displays. The innovative ideas and devices that are advancing humanity all begin with inspiration, research and development. KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem-solvers work together with the world's leading technology providers to accelerate the delivery of tomorrow's electronic devices. Life here is exciting and our teams thrive on tackling really hard problems. There is never a dull moment with us.

Group/Division

With over 40 years of semiconductor process control experience, chipmakers around the globe rely on KLA to ensure that their fabs ramp next-generation devices to volume production quickly and cost-effectively. Enabling the movement towards advanced chip design, KLA's Global Products Group (GPG), which is responsible for creating all of KLA's metrology and inspection products, is looking for the best and the brightest research scientist, software engineers, application development engineers, and senior product technology process engineers. The Broadband Plasma Division (BBP) provides market-leading patterned wafer optical inspection systems for leading-edge IC manufacturing. Logic, foundry, and memory customers depend on BBP products to detect yield-critical defects for process debug and excursion monitoring at advanced process nodes. BBP flagship products include the 29xx and 39xx series which leverage Broadband Plasma technology to capture a wide range of defects with ultimate sensitivity at the optical inspection speeds needed for inline defect monitoring.

Job Description/Preferred Qualifications

The Applications Development Engineer will be responsible for developing and implementing product applications for existing and pre-release products to provide maximum value to the customers.
The candidate is expected to support the following:

  • Focus on projects related to new product introduction such as characterization, alpha testing, beta testing and pilot tools in the ramp phase.
  • Potentially support the development of a system at the customer site.
  • Perform product diagnosis, problem resolution, interface with software and systems engineering to verify that hardware and software problems have been resolved.
  • Conduct customer product demonstrations and technical training including on-site training of Field Applications Engineers and end users.
  • Document all test results and lessons learned in BKMs (Best Known Methods), training documents, Demo reports, or, Alpha/Beta test reports and transfer product knowledge to Field Applications teams.
  • Generate demo and test reports for internal and customer review.

Requirements

  • We are looking for high energy, self-driven and motivated engineers who are interested in working in High Tech. The semiconductor space is a fast paced, high stress environment that gives applications engineers a lot of autonomy to work and drive projects on their own. Ideal candidates appreciate the opportunity to have high levels of accountability, working well with limited supervision and thrive in a work environment where they can drive projects on their own.
  • Candidate must have master's or bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physics, Material Science, or related fields.
  • Must have excellent oral and written communication, organizational, analytical, and interpersonal skills.
  • Candidate must be a strong team player.
  • 70% travel will be required

Minimum Qualifications

Master's Level Degree and 0 years related work experience; Bachelor's Level Degree and related work experience of 0-2 years

Base Pay Range: $97,800.00 - $166,300.00 AnnuallyPrimary Location: USA-CA-Milpitas-KLAKLA's total rewards package for employees may also include participation in performance incentive programs and eligibility for additional benefits including but not limited to: medical, dental, vision, life, and other voluntary benefits, 401(K) including company matching, employee stock purchase program (ESPP), student debt assistance, tuition reimbursement program, development and career growth opportunities and programs, financial planning benefits, wellness benefits including an employee assistance program (EAP), paid time off and paid company holidays, and family care and bonding leave.

Interns are eligible for some of the benefits listed. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed reflects the pay for this position in the primary location identified in this posting. Actual pay depends on several factors, including state minimum pay wage rates, location, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education level or training. We are committed to complying with all applicable federal and state minimum wage requirements where applicable. If applicable, your recruiter can share more about the specific pay range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

KLA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will ensure that qualified individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us attalent.acquisition@kla.com or at +1-408-352-2808 to request accommodation.

Be aware of potentially fraudulent job postings or suspicious recruiting activity by persons that are currently posing as KLA employees. KLA never asks for any financial compensation to be considered for an interview, to become an employee, or for equipment. Further, KLA does not work with any recruiters or third parties who charge such fees either directly or on behalf of KLA. Please ensure that you have searched KLA's Careers website for legitimate job postings. KLA follows a recruiting process that involves multiple interviews in person or on video conferencing with our hiring managers. If you are concerned that a communication, an interview, an offer of employment, or that an employee is not legitimate, please send an email to talent.acquisition@kla.com to confirm the person you are communicating with is an employee. We take your privacy very seriously and confidentially handle your information.

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