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Plasmonic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Photonics Scientist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$150 - $210/hr

Conduct applied research in nanophotonics, including metasurfaces, plasmonic and refractory optical materials, and thin-film structures, identifying paths from lab results to manufacturable products

$150 - $210/hr

Conduct applied research in nanophotonics, including metasurfaces, plasmonic and refractory optical materials, and thin-film structures, identifying paths from lab results to manufacturable products

Showing results 21-23

Plasmonic information

What is plasmonic?

Plasmonics is a field of science and engineering that studies the interaction between electromagnetic field and free electrons in a metal. This interaction gives rise to phenomena called surface plasmons, which are collective oscillations of electrons at the interface between a metal and a dielectric (like air or glass). Plasmonics is used to manipulate light at the nanoscale, leading to advances in sensors, imaging, photonic circuits, and even cancer treatment. Researchers and engineers in plasmonics often work on developing new materials, devices, and applications that exploit these unique optical properties.

What are the typical collaborative projects a plasmonics researcher might work on within a multidisciplinary team?

Plasmonics researchers often collaborate with physicists, chemists, materials scientists, and engineers on projects such as developing advanced sensors, enhancing solar cell efficiency, or creating new biomedical imaging techniques. These projects usually involve sharing expertise in nanofabrication, optical characterization, and computational modeling. Effective teamwork and regular communication are essential, as the integration of different scientific perspectives drives innovation and successful outcomes in plasmonics research.

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

To thrive as a Plasmonics Engineer, you need a solid background in physics, nanotechnology, and materials science, often supported by an advanced degree in a related field. Familiarity with simulation software (such as COMSOL Multiphysics), spectroscopic analysis tools, and nanofabrication techniques is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective collaboration are vital soft skills in this field. These skills ensure the successful design and implementation of plasmonic devices, enabling innovation and precision in research and product development.

What is the difference between Plasmonic vs Photonics Engineer?

AspectPlasmonicPhotonics Engineer
Required credentialsBachelor's or higher in physics, materials science, or electrical engineeringBachelor's or higher in optical engineering, physics, or related fields
Work environmentResearch labs, nanotechnology firms, advanced manufacturingOptical systems design, telecommunications, laser development
Industry usageNanophotonics, sensing, biosensing, nanotechnologyOptical communication, laser systems, imaging

Plasmonic and Photonics Engineers both work in optics-related fields, but Plasmonic focuses on nanoscale light-matter interactions, while Photonics Engineers work on broader optical systems. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often collaborate in advanced technology sectors.

More about Plasmonic jobs
Infographic showing various Plasmonic job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution.

$7.9K/mo

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory rating

9.5

Company rating: 9.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

The Accelerator Technology & Applied Physics (ATAP) Division at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) has multiple openings for Postdoctoral Scholars to join the Fusion Science & Ion Beam Technology Program as part of our projects on measuring low-energy deuterium-deuterium cross sections, the successful candidate(s) will contribute to the development and execution of experiments that explore deuterium fusion inside metal hydrides and ways to increase the fusion rate.
Working closely with scientists and engineers within our Program, the Postdoc(s) will assist in the design, implementation, and utilize novel instrumentation and custom instruments to measure fusion products (neutrons, helium, and protons). The postdoc will explore different material combinations, plasmonic structures and/or other external triggers that can enhance the fusion rate.
The position involves collaborations with researchers at the University of California, Davis, where partner experiments will be conducted. Additionally, the Postdoc(s) will interact with a theory group to advance our understanding of the relevant processes involved in metal hydrides and how to relate the theory findings back to new experiments at UC Davis and LBNL.
We're here for the same mission, to bring science solutions to the world. Join our team and YOU will play a supporting role in our goal to address global challenges! Have a high level of impact and work for an organization associated with 17 Nobel Prizes!
You will:
  • Assist and participate in the design, operation, and analysis of experiments measuring low-energy fusion reactions.
  • Assist, prepare and measure samples using nuclear techniques (e.g., solid state detectors for proton counting).
  • Assist, prepare and analyze samples in a micro-fabrication facility (e.g., the Molecular Foundry).
  • Use electrochemical processes to load metals with deuterium.
  • Collaborate on experiments, working closely with LBNL scientists and other project partners, engineers, other postdocs and students. Communicate results through internal reports, internal and external presentations.
  • Document and communicate results of work in peer-reviewed journal publications and oral presentations.
  • Proactively promote and participate in matters relating to safety and environmentally sensitive work practices.
  • Adhere to Environment, Health and Safety (EH&S) policies and attend training classes as required.
  • Along with senior project team members, may mentor undergraduate and graduate students and visitors.

We are looking for:
  • Recent Ph.D. degree in physics or related field.
  • Experience with two or more of the following areas:
    • Conducting experiments with ion beams and lasers.
    • Nuclear detectors and the appropriate readout electronics.
    • Low count rate experiments.
    • Electrochemical workflows, loading of metal with deuterium.
    • Micro-fabrication or cleanroom experience.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Relevant publication record and demonstration of proficient written and oral presentation of scientific results.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team that includes engineers, scientific staff, technicians, and students.
  • Demonstrate good verbal and written communication skills.

Desired skills/knowledge:
  • Ability to mentor undergraduate and graduate students and visitors.

Additional information:
  • Application date: Applications will be accepted until the job posting is removed.
  • Appointment type: This is a full-time 2-year, postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs. You must have less than 3 years of paid postdoctoral experience. Salary for Postdoctoral positions depends on years of experience post-degree.
  • Salary range: This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes. The salary range for this position is $5,756 - $9,136/month and is expected to start at $7,987/month or above based on a step schedule. Postdoctoral positions are paid on a step schedule per union contract and salaries will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates. Each step represents one full year of completed post-Ph.D. postdoctoral experience.
  • Background check: This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
  • Work modality: Work will be primarily performed at:Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here).

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer. For additional information, click here.

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