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Scientist Surface Characterization Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tribonet

Surface Scientist

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$100K - $175K/yr

Develop and apply surface characterization expertise to spacecraft and launch vehicle systems. * Build an understanding of National Security Space (NSS) program needs and develop scientific ...

Nova Measuring Instruments

Drive advanced research in materials characterization, semiconductor metrology, and surface science , identifying emerging technologies with the potential to address future industry requirements.

New

Nova Ltd.

Research Scientist

Fremont, CA · On-site

Drive advanced research in materials characterization, semiconductor metrology, and surface science , identifying emerging technologies with the potential to address future industry requirements.

Eurofins

Associate Materials Scientist

Groton, CT · On-site

Conduct physical and surface characterization of powders of pharmaceutical relevance. This includes ... Solve scientific problems using contemporary Materials Science experimental techniques.

Cellanome

Staff Scientist, Chemistry

Foster City, CA

$140K - $200K/yr

Cellanome is seeking an experienced chemist or materials scientist to advance the development and ... Experience in surface characterization techniques. * Experience in medicinal chemistry.

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Scientist Surface Characterization information

See salary details

$50.5K

$111.3K

$137.5K

How much do scientist surface characterization jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for scientist surface characterization in the United States is $111,343.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,500.00 and $137,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a scientist surface characterization?

A Scientist in Surface Characterization is a specialist who studies and analyzes the physical and chemical properties of surfaces and interfaces at the microscopic or nanoscopic scale. Their work often involves using advanced techniques like scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and spectroscopy to investigate materials for research and industrial applications. These scientists play a key role in fields such as materials science, nanotechnology, and electronics by helping to understand and improve the performance of various materials.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a scientist surface characterization?

To thrive as a Scientist Surface Characterization, you need a strong background in materials science, chemistry, or physics, often with an advanced degree and experience in surface analysis techniques. Proficiency with instruments such as XPS, SEM, AFM, and related data analysis software is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in interpreting results and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for producing accurate analyses, driving research innovation, and supporting product development in scientific and industrial settings.

How does a scientist surface characterization typically collaborate with other research and development teams?

A Scientist Surface Characterization often works closely with multidisciplinary teams, including materials scientists, chemists, and engineers, to analyze and interpret surface properties of materials. Collaboration usually involves sharing data from advanced analytical techniques—such as SEM, AFM, or XPS—to inform product development or troubleshooting. Effective communication is key, as surface characterization results can directly influence the direction of experimental design or product optimization. Regular meetings and cross-functional project teams are common, fostering a dynamic and supportive work environment.

What is the difference between Scientist Surface Characterization vs Materials Scientist?

AspectScientist Surface CharacterizationMaterials Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Materials Science, or related fields; experience with surface analysis techniquesBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science, Engineering, or related fields; broader knowledge of material properties
Work EnvironmentLaboratories focusing on surface analysis, microscopy, spectroscopyResearch and development labs, manufacturing, product development
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceutical, electronics, coatings, and nanotechnology industriesAutomotive, aerospace, consumer electronics, manufacturing

While both roles involve working with materials, a Scientist Surface Characterization specializes in analyzing surface properties using techniques like microscopy and spectroscopy. In contrast, a Materials Scientist has a broader focus on the overall properties and applications of materials. Both roles are essential in industries that require detailed material analysis and development.

What are popular job titles related to Scientist Surface Characterization jobs?

For Scientist Surface Characterization jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Scientist Surface Characterization job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,343 per year, or $53.5 per hour.

Senior Scientist, Surface Chemistry

Fremont, CA

Ultima Genomics
Biotechnology Research and Development • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Ultima Genomicsexternal

$120K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

We are looking for a highly motivatedSenior Scientist, Surface Chemistry to join our team!

As a Senior Scientist, Surface Chemistry, you will lead R&D and process development for surface-modified substrates. You will design surface chemistries, build metrology-to-performance correlations, and deliver robust, scalable processes with clear standard operating procedures (SOPs).

This is a full-time onsite position at our Fremont, CA location.

How You'll Contribute

  • Develop and scale surface functionalization processes; link chemistry and process settings to assay and product performance
  • Design and optimize surface chemistries, including organosilanes, thiols/SAMs, linkers, passivation and blocking strategies, and biomolecule immobilization
  • Run Design of Experiments (DOE) driven optimization and define robust operating windows and control plans
  • Build Quality Control (QC) workflows, including metrology panels, acceptance criteria, and correlation models between metrology and functional performance
  • Own troubleshooting and failure analysis; drive corrective actions via process controls and SOP updates
  • Drive innovation by prototyping next-gen coatings and chemistries, assessing feasibility and risk, and recommending paths forward
  • Partner cross-functionally with chemistry, biology and engineering teams and mentor technicians and junior staff
  • Other job duties as assigned

Qualifications, Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

  • Degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science and engineering, physics, or related field
  • BS with 8+ years, MS with 5+ years or PhD with 3+ years of related industry experience. PhD is preferred
  • Hands on experience supporting a commercial product where surface chemistry is a key component
  • Strong surface chemistry and surface characterization skills with ability to correlate measurements to function
  • Hands-on metrology experience, including AFM, Ellipsometry, XPS, FTIR, SEM, fluorescence microscopy; additional techniques are a plus
  • Proven SOP authoring and release and documentation discipline in a product development environment
  • Demonstrated project leadership in framing, planning/DOE, execution, analysis, and excellent communication skills
  • Experience with vapor-phase and CVD-style deposition of organosilanes, thiols, or related surface chemistries, biomaterials coatings and/or bioconjugation chemistry
  • Familiarity with microfabrication context such as PVD/CVD/PECVD/ALD, lithography, etch, wet bench/cleaning
  • Data and image analysis (Python, FIJI, JMP, Matlab/Octave, R)
  • Experience using Statistical Process Control (SPC) to monitor process stability and variation

At Ultima Genomics, your base pay is one part of your total compensation package. This role pays between $120,000 and $140,000, if performed in California, and your actual base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.  Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and do not include bonus, equity, or benefits.  This role is also eligible for a competitive benefits package that includes: medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; 401(k) retirement plan; flexible spending & health savings account; paid holidays; paid time off; employee assistance program; and other company benefits.

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