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Senior X Ray Diffraction Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Senior X Ray Diffraction information

See Portland, OR salary details

$26.5K

$85.1K

$173.4K

How much do senior x ray diffraction jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior x ray diffraction in Portland, OR is $85,145.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $109,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior X ray diffraction specialist do?

A Senior X Ray Diffraction (XRD) specialist is an experienced professional who conducts advanced analyses of materials using X-ray diffraction techniques. They are responsible for designing experiments, operating XRD equipment, interpreting complex diffraction patterns, and providing detailed reports on crystalline structures. Their expertise is often utilized in research and development, quality control, and materials science to identify phases, determine crystal structures, and analyze material properties. Senior specialists also often mentor junior staff and contribute to method development and optimization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior X ray diffraction specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior X-Ray Diffraction Specialist, you need advanced knowledge of crystallography, materials science, and experience with X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques, typically backed by a relevant degree such as a PhD or MSc. Proficiency in operating and maintaining XRD instruments, data analysis software (like TOPAS or GSAS), and familiarity with laboratory information management systems are crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex findings effectively set outstanding professionals apart. These skills ensure accurate analysis, reliable research outcomes, and effective collaboration across scientific teams.

What are some common challenges faced by senior X ray diffraction specialists and how can they be addressed?

Senior X Ray Diffraction specialists often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex crystallographic data, handling delicate or poorly crystalline samples, and ensuring accurate calibration of equipment. Collaborating closely with research scientists and laboratory technicians can help troubleshoot sample preparation issues and optimize experimental conditions. Staying updated with advancements in diffraction software and hardware also plays a crucial role in overcoming technical hurdles and improving data analysis efficiency.

What is the difference between Senior X Ray Diffraction vs X Ray Diffraction Technician?

AspectSenior X Ray DiffractionX Ray Diffraction Technician
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in materials science, physics, or related field; experience in XRD analysisAssociate's or bachelor's in related field; technical training in XRD operation
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, industrial R&D, university settingsLaboratories, manufacturing facilities, quality control labs
Job ResponsibilitiesDesign experiments, interpret data, oversee projectsOperate XRD equipment, prepare samples, collect data

Senior X Ray Diffraction professionals typically have advanced education and oversee complex research projects, while X Ray Diffraction Technicians focus on operating equipment and data collection. Both roles are essential in materials analysis but differ in responsibilities and experience levels.

What are the most commonly searched types of X Ray Diffraction jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of X Ray Diffraction jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior X Ray Diffraction jobs in Portland, OR?

For Senior X Ray Diffraction jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Senior X Ray Diffraction job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,145 per year, or $40.9 per hour.

Sr. Equipment Engineer - Thin Films/Magnetics

Kforce Technology Staffing

Portland, OR • On-site

$110K - $152K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

RESPONSIBILITIES:
Kforce's client, a growing nationwide semiconductor company is seeking a Senior Equipment Engineer - Thin Films/Magnetics in the Portland, OR area. We are working directly with the hiring manager on this search assignment. The company offers a competitive compensation package including base salary, profit sharing and stock/RSUs.
Specific responsibilities will include:
* Module process ownership: ownership of day-to-day operations, process/equipment monitoring and troubleshooting, sustaining tools to meet tool availability criteria
* Develop solutions to problems utilizing formal education, statistical knowledge, and problem-solving tools
* Drive improvements in quality, reliability, cost, yield, process stability/capability, productivity, and safety
* Technology transfer and matching to Foundry partners
* Will be involved with Sustaining activities and equipment engineering
* Occasional travel to headquarters (2 weeks a quarter)
REQUIREMENTS:
* B.S. degree or higher in Chemical Engineering or Materials Science or equivalent work experience
* Exhibit good and open communication skills; Able to work within cross-functional teams
* Hands-on experience with ultra-high vacuum sputtering systems or Ion Beam systems and/or multi-film stack
* Experience with Thin Films related metrology equipment such as sheet resistance, x-ray diffraction (XRD), tunneling resistance, and magnetoresistance CIPTech measurements are nice to haves
* Experience working with ultra-high vacuum sputtering PVD processes and equipment such as Canon Anelva HC7100 and Canon NC7900 equipment is strongly desired (Experience with Tel lexia (Tokyo Electron) or Lexia-EX will also be considered)
* Experience working with Ion beam deposition processes and equipment such as Nordiko Mnem-iX equipment Is a plus but not required
* Working experience with Statistical process control SPC) and equipment Fault detection classification (FDC), Design of Experiments (DOE) principles and software (JMP) are plusses but not required
* Magnetic materials experience is a plus but not required
* Foundry Technology Transfer experience and Equipment experience is desired
* Understanding of magnetic principles are a plus but not required
* Process Engineering experience is a plus but not required
The pay range is the lowest to highest compensation we reasonably in good faith believe we would pay at posting for this role. We may ultimately pay more or less than this range. Employee pay is based on factors like relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, location, performance, union contract and business needs. This range may be modified in the future.
We offer comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision insurance, HSA, FSA, 401(k), and life, disability & ADD insurance to eligible employees. Salaried personnel receive paid time off. Hourly employees are not eligible for paid time off unless required by law. Hourly employees on a Service Contract Act project are eligible for paid sick leave.
Note: Pay is not considered compensation until it is earned, vested and determinable. The amount and availability of any compensation remains in Kforce's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified in its discretion consistent with the law.
This job is not eligible for bonuses, incentives or commissions.
Kforce is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.
By clicking ?Apply Today? you agree to receive calls, AI-generated calls, text messages or emails from Kforce and its affiliates, and service providers. Note that if you choose to communicate with Kforce via text messaging the frequency may vary, and message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. You will always have the right to cease communicating via text by using key words such as STOP.

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About Kforce

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kforce is a professional staffing services firm that is located in Tampa, Florida, US. Operational since 1962, it specializes in flexible and direct hire staffing in Technology and Finance & Accounting, engaging over 23,000 highly skilled professionals annually with more than 4,000 customers. Kforce operates within various industry sectors such as healthcare, financial services, communications, and government. Their mission is to have a meaningful impact on all the lives they serve, with a focus on integrity, respect, and trust.

Industry

It services and finance and insurance

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Tampa, FL, US