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Plasma Physicist Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Junior Coatings Scientist (PECVD/DLC)

Tucson, AZ ยท On-site

$63K - $82K/yr

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 ...

Junior Coatings Scientist (PECVD/DLC)

Tucson, AZ ยท On-site

$63K - $82K/yr

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 ...

Junior Coatings Scientist PECVD / DLC

Tucson, AZ ยท On-site

$63K - $82K/yr

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 ...

Expert level understanding of plasma physics, plasma-surface interactions, pattern fidelity, selectivity, defectivity, and profile control for advanced device structures. * Demonstrated ability to ...

Field Process Engineer I

Phoenix, AZ ยท Hybrid

$66K - $91K/yr

... Physics, semiconductor related field, or equivalent experience. EXPERIENCE AND TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS * 0-2 years Plasma Etch Process Experience or semiconductor processing preferred. {NE} * Data ...

Field Process Engineer I

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$66K - $91K/yr

... Physics, semiconductor related field, or equivalent experience. EXPERIENCE AND TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS * 0-2 years Plasma Etch Process Experience or semiconductor processing preferred. {NE} * Data ...

... plasma etch, ion beam etch), deposition (electron beam evaporation, sputtering), lithography ... D. in Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related field. * 5+ years of ...

... plasma etch, ion beam etch), deposition (electron beam evaporation, sputtering), lithography ... D. in Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related field. * 5+ years of ...

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Plasma Physicist information

See Arizona salary details

$36.8K

$88.3K

$211.1K

How much do plasma physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for plasma physicist in Arizona is $88,347.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $104,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a plasma physicist?

A Plasma Physicist studies ionized gases, known as plasmas, which are found in stars, fusion reactors, and various industrial applications. They conduct experiments, develop simulations, and apply theoretical models to understand plasma behavior. Their work is essential in advancing fusion energy, space physics, and technologies like plasma thrusters and semiconductor manufacturing. Plasma Physicists often work in research institutions, government labs, or private industry.

What kinds of research projects or experiments do plasma physicists typically work on?

Plasma Physicists commonly engage in experimental and theoretical research related to controlled fusion, space plasma phenomena, or plasma applications in material processing and medicine. Their work often involves designing and conducting experiments using advanced equipment such as magnetic confinement devices, lasers, or high-voltage systems. Collaboration with engineers, computational scientists, and other physicists is typical to analyze data and optimize experimental setups. Plasma Physicists also frequently present findings at conferences and publish in scientific journals, contributing to ongoing advancements in the field.

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

To thrive as a Plasma Physicist, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and computational modeling, typically supported by a PhD in plasma physics or a related field. Familiarity with specialized simulation software, diagnostic instrumentation, and laboratory equipment such as tokamaks or plasma reactors is common. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective scientific communication are essential soft skills for success. Together, these skills enable Plasma Physicists to conduct complex experiments, collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, and contribute to advancements in research and technology.

How much do plasma physicists make?

Plasma physicists typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $70,000 to over $150,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Those working in research, government labs, or private industry with advanced skills and certifications tend to earn higher salaries.

What does a plasma physicist do?

A plasma physicist studies the properties and behavior of plasma, the fourth state of matter, often using advanced laboratory equipment and computer models. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and develop theories related to plasma phenomena, which are important in fields like fusion energy, space science, and industrial applications.

What are popular job titles related to Plasma Physicist jobs in Arizona?

For Plasma Physicist jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Plasma Physicist jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Plasma Physicist job openings:

Infographic showing various Plasma Physicist job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $88,347 per year, or $42.5 per hour.

Sr. Principal Engineer, Systems (Plasma & Multi-Scale Simulation Scientist)

ASM

Phoenix, AZ โ€ข Hybrid

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Sr. Principal Engineer, Systems (Plasma & Multi-Scale Simulation Scientist)

Simulationย and Modeling Hubย 

Role Summaryย 

We are seeking a Senior Plasma & Multi-Scale Simulation Scientist to strengthen and expand plasma modeling capabilities within the Simulationย and Modeling Hub (S&M-Hub). This role focuses on bridging plasma physics, surface chemistry, and feature-scale behavior to enable predictive, physics-based simulation workflows supporting advanced semiconductor process development (PEALD, PECVD, ALE, RIE).ย 

Key Responsibilitiesย 

  • Develop and apply plasma simulation models (fluid and hybrid CCP/ICP)ย 
  • Bridge multiple scales including plasma-surface interactions, molecular/first-principles insights, and feature-scale behaviorย 
  • Integrate plasma modeling with CFD, thermal, and multi-physics simulationsย 
  • Collaborate with experimental teams toย validateย models using in-situ and ex-situ diagnosticsย 
  • Translate modeling insights into actionable process and equipment guidanceย 
  • Contribute toย S&M-Hubย roadmap development, best practices, and advanced modeling workflowsย 

Required Qualificationsย 

  • Ph.D. in Applied Physics, Plasma Physics, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related fieldย 
  • Strong background in plasma-assisted semiconductor processes (PEALD, PECVD, ALE, RIE)ย 
  • Demonstrated experience in computational plasma modelingย 
  • Ability to connect fundamental modeling with experimental validation and manufacturing relevanceย 

Preferred Qualificationsย 

  • Experience with first-principles, molecular dynamics, or surface reaction modelingย 
  • Exposure to feature-scale or device-relevant plasma simulationsย 
  • Familiarity with multi-physics coupling andย reduced-orderย (ROM)ย or hybrid modeling approachesย 
  • Experience in industrial R&D or advanced technology development environmentsย