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Plasma Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

We are applying science and engineering to design transformational technologies. Whether it ... We are seeking a Scientist (Experimental Plasma Physicist) who will develop in-situ boundary plasma ...

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 ...

Sr. Process Engineer

Saint Petersburg, FL

$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 ...

Scientist - Plasma Diagnostics

Kearny, NJ · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Thea Energy is leveraging recent breakthroughs in stellarator physics and engineering to create a ... Thea Energy is looking for a driven scientist in fusion plasma diagnostics to join our core team.

Sr Scientist, Plasma Control

Irvine, CA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

We are applying science and engineering to design transformational technologies. Whether it ... The primary task of the Plasma Control Team is to maintain and advance the development of the Real ...

Scientist - Plasma Diagnostics

Kearny, NJ · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Thea Energy is leveraging recent breakthroughs in stellarator physics and engineering to create a ... Thea Energy is looking for a driven scientist in fusion plasma diagnostics to join our core team.

Plasma Operator

Monroe, WI · On-site

$21/hr

Rework and refurbish used stator plates and related components according to engineering drawings, specifications, and written work instructions. * Safely operate plasma cutting equipment to remove ...

Relocation Assistance Available We are seeking a Lead CNC Plasma/Laser Programmer to join our team in Ruston, LA. This role is responsible for programming and operating burn table equipment, ensuring ...

Showing results 21-40

Plasma Engineer information

See salary details

$37K

$87.2K

$136.5K

How much do plasma engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 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 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.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,220 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer, Plasma Diagnostics

Helion Energy

Everett, WA • On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

About Helion
We are a fusion power company based in Everett, WA, with the mission to build the world's first fusion power plant, enabling a future with unlimited clean electricity. Our vision is a world with clean, reliable, and affordable energy for everyone.
Since Helion's founding in 2013, we have raised $1.5 billion from long-time investors such as Sam Altman, Mithril, and Capricorn Investment Group as well as new investors including Thrive Capital, LightSpeed Venture Capital, SoftBank, and others to propel us forward. Our current prototype, Polaris, has reached record-breaking plasma temperatures of 150 million degrees Celsius (13 keV). Helion is continuing to iterate and on the path to the world's first fusion power plant, Orion.
This is a pivotal time to join Helion. You will tackle real-world challenges with a team that prizes urgency, rigor, ownership, and a commitment to delivering hard truths - values essential to achieving what no one has before. Together, we will change the future of energy, because the world can't wait.
What You Will Be Doing:
As a Diagnostics Engineer on Helion's Science team, you will own the mechanical development of next-generation diagnostic instrumentation that enables plasma research and advances our mission to achieve fusion energy. You will transform early-stage concepts into reliable mechanical systems through design, prototyping, testing, and integration. This is an onsite role that reports to the Director of Plasma and Nuclear Science at our Everett, WA office.
You Will:
  • Collaborate with scientists and engineers to translate experimental needs into novel mechanical solutions for diagnostic devices
  • Own the mechanical design of diagnostic systems by defining requirements, resolving hardware issues, and driving continuous improvements
  • Design, prototype, and iterate mechanical components and assemblies using CAD tools such as NX or SolidWorks; perform structural and thermal analyses using tools such as ANSYS; and lead design reviews
  • Conduct experimental testing, collect and analyze performance data, and lead root-cause analyses of mechanical failures or performance deviations
  • Apply engineering first principles and lessons from previous designs to develop innovative hardware and integrate solutions into ongoing fusion research experiments
  • Expand your technical capabilities and domain knowledge by collaborating with Helion's experts and engaging with cutting-edge science and engineering

Required Skills:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical field and 2+ years of relevant professional experience
  • Hands-on experience developing diagnostic equipment, laboratory instrumentation, precision sensing systems, experimental hardware, or similar technologies
  • Experience using CAD software such as NX or SolidWorks to design mechanical components and assemblies, with exposure to FEA tools such as ANSYS or FEMAP
  • Experience applying engineering first principles and structured problem-solving methods to technically challenging or first-of-a-kind designs
  • Hands-on exposure to multiple engineering disciplines, such as mechanical, electrical, thermal, vacuum, or fluid systems

Benefits
Our total compensation package includes benefits, including but not limited to:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision plans for employees and their families
  • 31 Days of PTO (21 vacation days and 10 sick days)
  • 10 Paid holidays, plus company-wide winter break
  • Up to 5% employer 401(k) match
  • Short term disability, long term disability, and life insurance
  • Paid parental leave and support (up to 16 weeks)
  • Annual wellness stipend

Helion is an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the interview process, please let us know.