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Plasma Physicist Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Fundamental knowledge of plasma physics, surface reactions, thin film processes, and semiconductor materials * Experience with experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis * Ability ...

Module Development Engineer

Lafayette, OR · On-site

$201K - $284K/yr

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

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

Module Development Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$201K - $284K/yr

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

Module Development Engineer

Vernonia, OR · On-site

$201K - $284K/yr

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

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Showing results 1-20

Plasma Physicist information

See Oregon salary details

$41.8K

$100.2K

$239.5K

How much do plasma physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for plasma physicist in Oregon is $100,236.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,400.00 and $118,400.00 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 Oregon?

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

What job categories do people searching Plasma Physicist jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Plasma Physicist jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Plasma Physicist jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Plasma Physicist job openings:

Infographic showing various Plasma Physicist job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,236 per year, or $48.2 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Lam Research rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 495 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 Process Engineer at Lam, you will operate on cutting-edge technology, harnessing atomic precision, material science, and surface engineering to push technical boundaries. Your role involves developing new and advanced process formulations, defining equipment hardware to meet processing requirements, evaluating test data, and coordinating design requirements to ensure compatibility of processing methods. Your expertise and knowledge play a crucial role our customers success, making an impact on the next generation of semiconductor breakthroughs.
What you'll do
  • Conduct process engineering research, development, and evaluation in support of Lam's cutting-edge semiconductor equipment and systems.
  • Review and enhance processing techniques and methods applied in the manufacture and fabrication of products.
  • Develop and sustain new processes and process improvements to reduce production costs and increase yields.
  • Compile and analyze test data to establish next steps in process development and determine appropriate limits and variables for process specifications.
  • Collaborate internally to plan, collect data, analyze results, and report on customer demos for existing process applications.

Who we're looking for
  • Bachelor's degree and a minimum of 2 years of related experience; or a Master's degree or PhD in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or Physics or related field with no previous professional experience; or equivalent experience.
  • This is a graduate eligible role.

Preferred qualifications
  • Familiarity with working in a laboratory and on semiconductor equipment with experience in surface preparation and analytical techniques.
  • In-depth understanding of Statistical Process Control (SPC) and/or Design of Experiments (DOE).
  • Proficient in MATLAB, Python, or other similar scientific computing languages.
  • Working knowledge of statistical analysis and problem-solving methodologies.
  • Experience with statistical tools (JMP, Minitab, etc.)
  • Background in Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD), Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD), Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (PECVD), or Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD).
  • Background in Plasma Physics, Reactive Ion Etching (RIE), Atomic Layer Etching (ALE), Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP), Capacitively Coupled Plasma (CCP).
  • Knowledge of material synthesis and material characterization.

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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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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