1

Plasma Engineering Jobs in California (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

$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 ...

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 ...

Senior Plasma and Laser Physics Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $152K/yr

Applies knowledge and experience in engineering (electrical engineering or mechanical engineering) or physics (electromagnetics, flow dynamics, plasma physics or acoustics) to improve the performance ...

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 ...

We are applying science and engineering to design transformational technologies. Whether it ... The Scientist (Experimental Plasma Physicist) will develop, implement, and oversee advanced ...

Who We Are Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce ... RF/DC Plasma Systems; Plasma Sensing; Algorithm Development * 3-5 years of experience in ...

$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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Plasma Engineering information

See California salary details

$12

$31

$56

How much do plasma engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for plasma engineering in California is $31.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $37.50 per hour, 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 working in high-demand industries or leadership roles.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

In the field of plasma engineering, senior engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in plasma physics or related areas can reach salaries around $300,000 annually, especially in leadership roles or high-demand industries like aerospace or energy. Such positions often require advanced certifications, management responsibilities, and working in high-cost regions or companies with competitive compensation packages.

What is a Plasma Engineering job?

A Plasma Engineering job involves the study, design, and application of plasma—ionized gases with unique electrical properties. Plasma engineers work in industries such as aerospace, semiconductors, energy, and materials processing, developing technologies like plasma cutting, propulsion systems, and fusion energy. They apply principles of physics, electromagnetism, and fluid dynamics to create and optimize plasma-based systems. The role often requires expertise in simulations, diagnostics, and experimental techniques.

What are the typical daily tasks and work environments for Plasma Engineering professionals?

Plasma Engineering professionals often split their time between laboratory settings, where they conduct experiments and operate plasma-generating equipment, and office environments, where they analyze data and develop designs or process improvements. Daily tasks can include calibrating and maintaining equipment, running simulations, interpreting results, and preparing technical reports. Collaboration is frequent, especially with material scientists, mechanical engineers, and production teams, to optimize plasma processes for applications like semiconductor manufacturing or materials coating. The work environment is typically fast-paced and innovative, providing opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge technologies and cross-functional projects.

What do plasma engineers do?

Plasma engineers design, develop, and maintain systems that generate and control plasma for applications such as semiconductor manufacturing, materials processing, and fusion research. They work with specialized equipment, analyze plasma behavior, and ensure safety protocols are followed, often requiring knowledge of physics, engineering principles, and laboratory techniques.

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

To thrive as a Plasma Engineer, you should have a strong background in physics or engineering, with expertise in plasma physics, materials science, and advanced mathematics, typically supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Familiarity with plasma simulation software, laboratory diagnostic tools, and certifications in safety protocols for working with high-voltage or vacuum systems are often required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork and communication skills will help you excel in diverse research or manufacturing environments. These competencies are vital for designing safe and efficient plasma processes, troubleshooting technical challenges, and collaborating on multidisciplinary projects.

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, engineering tools, and certifications can lead to higher compensation, especially in research or industrial settings.
What are the most commonly searched types of Plasma Engineering jobs in California? The most popular types of Plasma Engineering jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Plasma Engineering jobs in California? For Plasma Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Plasma Engineering jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Plasma Engineering jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Plasma Engineering job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,765 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

$119K - $220K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Lam Research rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

54th of 487 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.
#LI-JK1
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.

What Lam Research employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Lam Research logo

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

Social media