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Scientist Surface Characterization Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cellanome

Staff Scientist, Chemistry

Foster City, CA · On-site

$140K - $200K/yr

We're amassing a world class team of engineers, scientists, team builders and problem solvers to ... Experience in surface characterization techniques. * Experience in medicinal chemistry.

IQVIA

Senior Scientist

Durham, NC · On-site

$80K - $167K/yr

We are seeking Senior Scientist - Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) and Characterization to join IQVIA Laboratories at Durham, NC . We hire passionate innovators who drive healthcare forward through ...

Elementis PLC

The Senior Scientist, Hectorite Materials, leads the development of next-generation Hectorite ... and surface characterization methods. 4. Strong experimental design, data analysis, and problem ...

Seeds Renewables

Associate Scientist - Physical Characterization Eurofins about 2 months ago * Analysis of powder ... Analysis of liquid samples for key physical properties (such as viscosity and surface tension)

Kemet

Material Scientist

Simpsonville, SC · On-site

Apply engineering and scientific research methods to refine existing coating processes for better ... Familiarity with surface characterization techniques to evaluate coating integrity. * Demonstrated ...

KEMET

Material Scientist

Simpsonville, SC · On-site

Apply engineering and scientific research methods to refine existing coating processes for better ... Familiarity with surface characterization techniques to evaluate coating integrity. * Demonstrated ...

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Scientist Surface Characterization information

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$50.5K

$111.3K

$137.5K

How much do scientist surface characterization jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 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.

Temporary Research Assistant - Chemical Mechanical Polishing

Potsdam, NY • On-site

Clarkson University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Clarkson Universityexternal

$20/hr

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Clarkson University rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Pay Range
USD $20.00 - USD $20.00 /Hr.
Overview
Clarkson University seeks a Temporary Research Assistant to support an industry-sponsored research project in tungsten chemical mechanical polishing (CMP). The position will involve CMP experimentation, slurry formulation and evaluation, electrochemical characterization, surface metrology, defectivity analysis, quantitative data analysis, and technical reporting.
Candidates with research experience in CMP, electrochemical methods, semiconductor materials processing, surface and interface characterization, or surface metrology are strongly preferred. Experience correlating CMP process parameters with material removal, surface quality, and defectivity is particularly desirable.
Responsibilities
• Conduct laboratory experiments related to chemical mechanical polishing and surface processing.
• Prepare experimental formulations and samples.
• Perform electrochemical measurements and analysis.
• Conduct materials and surface characterization.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and document research results.
• Prepare scientific figures, technical reports, presentations, and research manuscripts.
• Assist with other research activities related to the sponsored project.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
• Ph.D. in Physics, Materials Science and Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Research experience in chemical mechanical polishing, semiconductor materials processing, materials characterization, electrochemistry, surface science, or a related area.
• Experience with laboratory experimentation and quantitative data analysis.
• Strong scientific writing, data presentation, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment.
Preferred Qualifications
• Hands-on experience with chemical mechanical polishing (CMP).
• Experience with electrochemical methods and analysis.
• Experience with materials and surface characterization techniques.
• Experience with experimental design and quantitative analysis of research data.
• Record of peer-reviewed research publications.
Physical Demands
The physical demands characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Health & Safety
Health & Safety: All staff has a statutory responsibility to take reasonable care of themselves, others and the environment and to prevent harm by their acts or omissions. All staff is therefore required to adhere to the University's Health, Safety, and Environmental Policy & Procedures.
Disclaimer Statement
DISCLAIMER: The above statements are designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, skills, and qualifications required of personnel so classified.
EEO Statement
Special Instructions to Applicants: An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, Clarkson actively seeks and encourages applications from veterans and people with disabilities.
All offers of employment are subject to the applicant successfully passing a background check (including, but not limited to, employment verification, educational and other credential verification, and criminal records

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