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Sputtering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Erickson International

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Thin Film Coating Technician

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Position Summary We are seeking a Sputtering Equipment Operator to work with the existing operators to manage daily operation of a vacuum sputtering production system. This position plays a key role ...

Erickson International

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Solar Panel/Cell Manufacturing Technician

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

Position Summary We are seeking a Sputtering Equipment Operator to work with the existing operators to manage daily operation of a vacuum sputtering production system. This position plays a key role ...

Bühler Gruppe

Controls Engineer

Owatonna, MN · On-site

$70 - $100/hr

Sputtering Components Inc. (SCI) Sputtering Components Inc. (SCI) in Owatonna is a business in southern Minnesota that has served customers all around the world for over 20 years.Our thin film ...

New

First Solar

Development Engineer IV

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Sputtering Technology Ownership: Assume a key ownership role in our sputtering deposition operations, vacuum systems, and next-generation PVD tool modifications within the organization. * Material ...

First Solar

Development Engineer IV

Santa Clara, CA

Sputtering Technology Ownership: Assume a key ownership role in our sputtering deposition operations, vacuum systems, and next-generation PVD tool modifications within the organization. * Material ...

Apex Microdevices

Thin Film Process Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Grow ferroelectric thin films using RF sputtering and integrate them into microelectronic devices. * Perform cleanroom microelectronics fabrication for device integration and prototyping. * Conduct ...

The University of Arizona

req26735

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$45K - $62K/yr

... sputtering with combinatorial PVD. * Characterization and data analysis of thin film thickness, crystallography, granular structure, stoichiometry, compositional analysis, topography, roughness ...

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Sputtering information

What is sputtering?

A sputtering job involves operating and maintaining sputtering equipment used for thin film deposition in industries like semiconductor manufacturing, optics, and coatings. Technicians oversee the process by preparing materials, controlling deposition parameters, and ensuring quality standards are met. They may also troubleshoot equipment issues, perform routine maintenance, and work in cleanroom environments. This role requires attention to detail, technical knowledge, and an understanding of vacuum systems and material properties.

What does a sputtering professional do?

A typical day for someone working in sputtering involves preparing deposition equipment, setting up target materials, monitoring thin film processes, and conducting quality checks on the resulting coatings. You'll often work in a cleanroom environment as part of a team alongside engineers, technicians, and researchers to develop or manufacture high-performance materials. In addition to hands-on equipment operation, the role may require documenting results, troubleshooting technical issues, and performing routine maintenance. Collaboration and communication are key, as you'll coordinate with other departments to ensure production goals and quality standards are consistently met.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in sputtering?

To thrive in a Sputtering role, candidates should possess a solid understanding of thin film deposition techniques, materials science, and cleanroom protocols, often backed by a degree or certification in engineering, physics, or a related technical field. Proficiency with sputtering equipment, vacuum systems, and process control software is highly valuable, as are certifications in semiconductor manufacturing or related ISO standards. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are important soft skills in this position. These abilities ensure precise operation, high-quality output, and collaboration within multidisciplinary manufacturing or R&D environments.

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Sputtering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sputtering job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Sputtering Line Operator (Vacuum Deposition Operator)

Erickson International LLC

Las Vegas, NV • On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

The Sputtering Line Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring vacuum sputtering equipment used to deposit metallic or ceramic layers onto PET film substrates in a roll-to-roll manufacturing process. This role ensures consistent coating thickness, optical performance, adhesion quality, and production efficiency while maintaining vacuum integrity and equipment stability. The operator directly impacts product performance (IR rejection, reflectivity, durability) and production yield.

Primary Responsibilities

1. Equipment Setup & Operation

  • Prepare and load PET master rolls into sputtering chamber.
  • Set process parameters including:
    • Chamber vacuum levels
    • Gas flow rates (e.g., Argon, reactive gases if applicable)
    • Power settings to cathodes
    • Line speed
    • Web tension
  • Start and monitor vacuum pump-down sequence.
  • Ensure stable deposition conditions throughout run.

2. Process Monitoring & Control**

  • Monitor:
    • Vacuum pressure levels
    • Target power stability
    • Deposition rate
    • Film temperature
    • Web alignment
  • Adjust parameters to maintain coating thickness specifications.
  • Identify abnormal readings or process instability.

3. Quality Control**

  • Collect and inspect coated samples.
  • Verify:
    • Optical clarity
    • Color consistency
    • Reflectivity
    • IR rejection performance
  • Coordinate with laboratory for thickness and performance validation.
  • Identify defects such as:
    • Pinholes
    • Non-uniform coating
    • Arcing marks
    • Contamination streaks

4. Target & Chamber Maintenance**

  • Replace sputtering targets as required.
  • Inspect shields and chamber components.
  • Assist with chamber cleaning and preventive maintenance.
  • Follow strict contamination control procedures.

5. Yield & Scrap Control**

  • Track scrap during startup and shutdown.
  • Optimize ramp-up efficiency.
  • Minimize edge waste and roll rejects.
  • Report production metrics per shift.

6. Safety & Compliance**

  • Follow vacuum equipment safety protocols.
  • Handle gases according to safety standards.
  • Comply with lockout/tagout procedures.
  • Wear appropriate PPE.

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