Process Engineer 4
Fremont, CA · On-site
... surface engineering to push technical boundaries. Your role involves developing new and advanced process formulations, defining equipment hardware to meet processing requirements, evaluating test ...
Process Engineer 4
Fremont, CA · On-site
... surface engineering to push technical boundaries. Your role involves developing new and advanced process formulations, defining equipment hardware to meet processing requirements, evaluating test ...
Process Engineer 3
Fremont, CA · On-site
$86K - $192K/yr
... surface engineering to push technical boundaries. Your role involves developing new and advanced process formulations, defining equipment hardware to meet processing requirements, evaluating test ...
Process Engineer 3
Fremont, CA · On-site
$86K - $192K/yr
... surface engineering to push technical boundaries. Your role involves developing new and advanced process formulations, defining equipment hardware to meet processing requirements, evaluating test ...
Process Engineer 4
Fremont, CA · On-site
... surface engineering to push technical boundaries. Your role involves developing new and advanced process formulations, defining equipment hardware to meet processing requirements, evaluating test ...
Process Engineer 4
Fremont, CA · On-site
... surface engineering to push technical boundaries. Your role involves developing new and advanced process formulations, defining equipment hardware to meet processing requirements, evaluating test ...
Process Engineer 4
Fremont, CA · On-site
$104K - $231K/yr
... surface engineering to push technical boundaries. Your role involves developing new and advanced process formulations, defining equipment hardware to meet processing requirements, evaluating test ...
Process Engineer 4
Fremont, CA · On-site
$104K - $231K/yr
... surface engineering to push technical boundaries. Your role involves developing new and advanced process formulations, defining equipment hardware to meet processing requirements, evaluating test ...
Process Engineer 3
Fremont, CA · On-site
$86K - $192K/yr
... surface engineering to push technical boundaries. Your role involves developing new and advanced process formulations, defining equipment hardware to meet processing requirements, evaluating test ...
Process Engineer 3
Fremont, CA · On-site
$86K - $192K/yr
... surface engineering to push technical boundaries. Your role involves developing new and advanced process formulations, defining equipment hardware to meet processing requirements, evaluating test ...
Electrical Engineer 2
Fremont, CA · On-site
Innovations from Mattson Technology in Atomic Surface Engineering address the most critical logic and memory manufacturing challenges. In May 2016, Mattson Technology was acquired by Beijing's E-Town ...
Electrical Engineer 2
Fremont, CA · On-site
Innovations from Mattson Technology in Atomic Surface Engineering address the most critical logic and memory manufacturing challenges. In May 2016, Mattson Technology was acquired by Beijing's E-Town ...
Electrical Engineer 2
Fremont, CA · On-site
Innovations from Mattson Technology in Atomic Surface Engineering address the most critical logic and memory manufacturing challenges. In May 2016, Mattson Technology was acquired by Beijing's E-Town ...
Electrical Engineer 2
Fremont, CA · On-site
Innovations from Mattson Technology in Atomic Surface Engineering address the most critical logic and memory manufacturing challenges. In May 2016, Mattson Technology was acquired by Beijing's E-Town ...
Process Engineer 6
Fremont, CA · On-site
... surface engineering to push technical boundaries. Your role involves developing new and advanced process formulations, defining equipment hardware to meet processing requirements, evaluating test ...
Process Engineer 6
Fremont, CA · On-site
... surface engineering to push technical boundaries. Your role involves developing new and advanced process formulations, defining equipment hardware to meet processing requirements, evaluating test ...
Process Engineer 4
Fremont, CA · On-site
... surface engineering to push technical boundaries. Your role involves developing new and advanced process formulations, defining equipment hardware to meet processing requirements, evaluating test ...
Process Engineer 4
Fremont, CA · On-site
... surface engineering to push technical boundaries. Your role involves developing new and advanced process formulations, defining equipment hardware to meet processing requirements, evaluating test ...
Process Engineer 2
Fremont, CA · On-site
Innovations from Mattson Technology in Atomic Surface Engineering address the most critical logic and memory manufacturing challenges. In May 2016, Mattson Technology was acquired by Beijing's E-Town ...
Process Engineer 2
Fremont, CA · On-site
Innovations from Mattson Technology in Atomic Surface Engineering address the most critical logic and memory manufacturing challenges. In May 2016, Mattson Technology was acquired by Beijing's E-Town ...
Surface Experts Sales Representative
San Diego, CA · On-site
$45K - $55K/yr
Visiting a variety of industries including Property Management, Construction / Developers, Movers, etc. Customer Relationship Development * Educating on Surface Experts capabilities and limitations
Surface Experts Sales Representative
San Diego, CA · On-site
$45K - $55K/yr
Visiting a variety of industries including Property Management, Construction / Developers, Movers, etc. Customer Relationship Development * Educating on Surface Experts capabilities and limitations
Process Engineer 5
Fremont, CA · On-site
... surface engineering to push technical boundaries. Your role involves developing new and advanced process formulations, defining equipment hardware to meet processing requirements, evaluating test ...
Process Engineer 5
Fremont, CA · On-site
... surface engineering to push technical boundaries. Your role involves developing new and advanced process formulations, defining equipment hardware to meet processing requirements, evaluating test ...
Process Engineer 2
Fremont, CA · On-site
Innovations from Mattson Technology in Atomic Surface Engineering address the most critical logic and memory manufacturing challenges. In May 2016, Mattson Technology was acquired by Beijing's E-Town ...
Process Engineer 2
Fremont, CA · On-site
Innovations from Mattson Technology in Atomic Surface Engineering address the most critical logic and memory manufacturing challenges. In May 2016, Mattson Technology was acquired by Beijing's E-Town ...
Developer Relations Engineer
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$169K - $232K/yr
Making Adyen agent-ready - helping ensure our docs, snippets, and developer surfaces are legible and reliable for AI agents and AI-assisted developer workflows. As agents increasingly integrate on ...
Developer Relations Engineer
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$169K - $232K/yr
Making Adyen agent-ready - helping ensure our docs, snippets, and developer surfaces are legible and reliable for AI agents and AI-assisted developer workflows. As agents increasingly integrate on ...
Developer Relations Engineer
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$169K - $232K/yr
Making Adyen agent-ready - helping ensure our docs, snippets, and developer surfaces are legible and reliable for AI agents and AI-assisted developer workflows. As agents increasingly integrate on ...
Developer Relations Engineer
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$169K - $232K/yr
Making Adyen agent-ready - helping ensure our docs, snippets, and developer surfaces are legible and reliable for AI agents and AI-assisted developer workflows. As agents increasingly integrate on ...
Mechanical Engineer 4
Fremont, CA · On-site
Innovations from Mattson Technology in Atomic Surface Engineering address the most critical logic and memory manufacturing challenges. In May 2016, Mattson Technology was acquired by Beijing's E-Town ...
Mechanical Engineer 4
Fremont, CA · On-site
Innovations from Mattson Technology in Atomic Surface Engineering address the most critical logic and memory manufacturing challenges. In May 2016, Mattson Technology was acquired by Beijing's E-Town ...
Process Engineer
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$150K - $250K/yr
... surface engineering * Understanding of the mechanical, optical, and chemical properties of materials which typically determine the performance of nanofabricated devices * Strong written and oral ...
Process Engineer
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$150K - $250K/yr
... surface engineering * Understanding of the mechanical, optical, and chemical properties of materials which typically determine the performance of nanofabricated devices * Strong written and oral ...
Mechanical Engineer 4
Fremont, CA · On-site
Innovations from Mattson Technology in Atomic Surface Engineering address the most critical logic and memory manufacturing challenges. In May 2016, Mattson Technology was acquired by Beijing's E-Town ...
Mechanical Engineer 4
Fremont, CA · On-site
Innovations from Mattson Technology in Atomic Surface Engineering address the most critical logic and memory manufacturing challenges. In May 2016, Mattson Technology was acquired by Beijing's E-Town ...
Fullstack Software Engineer
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$170K - $200K/yr
Partner with Product, Design, and Operations to translate accounting workflows into clean software, and surface engineering tradeoffs early * Use AI-powered development tools (copilots, code agents ...
Fullstack Software Engineer
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$170K - $200K/yr
Partner with Product, Design, and Operations to translate accounting workflows into clean software, and surface engineering tradeoffs early * Use AI-powered development tools (copilots, code agents ...
Senior Process Engineer
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$200K - $300K/yr
... surface engineering * Deep understanding of the mechanical, optical, and chemical properties of materials which typically determine the performance of nanofabricated devices * Strong written and oral ...
Senior Process Engineer
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$200K - $300K/yr
... surface engineering * Deep understanding of the mechanical, optical, and chemical properties of materials which typically determine the performance of nanofabricated devices * Strong written and oral ...
Surface Engineering information
See California salary details
$12.81 - $16.80
9% of jobs
$19.89 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$16.80 - $20.79
21% of jobs
$20.79 - $24.78
12% of jobs
The median wage is $28.77 / hr.
$24.78 - $28.77
9% of jobs
$28.77 - $32.76
13% of jobs
$36.04 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$32.76 - $36.75
15% of jobs
$36.75 - $40.74
9% of jobs
$40.74 - $44.73
3% of jobs
$44.73 - $48.72
3% of jobs
$48.72 - $52.71
4% of jobs
$52.71 - $56.70
3% of jobs
$12
$31
$56
How much do surface engineering jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for surface engineering in California is $31.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $37.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What does a surface engineer do?
A surface engineer specializes in modifying and improving the surface properties of materials to enhance their performance, durability, and resistance to wear, corrosion, or fatigue. They often work with techniques such as coating, polishing, and surface treatments, using tools like microscopy and testing equipment to analyze and optimize surfaces in industries like aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a surface engineer, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Surface Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science, surface treatments, and engineering principles, often supported by a degree in materials, mechanical, or chemical engineering. Proficiency with analytical tools such as scanning electron microscopes (SEM), surface profilometers, and familiarity with relevant industry standards or certifications (e.g., ISO, ASTM) is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication enable collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and clients. These competencies ensure high-quality surface solutions, product durability, and innovation in various industrial applications.
What is surface engineering?
Surface engineering is a multidisciplinary field focused on modifying and improving the properties of surfaces of materials, such as metals, ceramics, or polymers, to enhance their performance and durability. Techniques like coating, plating, and thermal treatments are used to provide resistance against wear, corrosion, oxidation, and other surface-related failures. Surface engineering is widely applied in industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, and biomedical devices. The goal is to extend the lifespan and functionality of components while reducing maintenance costs and resource consumption.
What are some common challenges faced by surface engineers when developing coatings for industrial applications?
Surface engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring the durability and adhesion of coatings under harsh operating conditions, selecting materials that meet both performance and cost requirements, and troubleshooting unexpected failures like corrosion or wear. Balancing the need for innovative solutions with strict industry standards and environmental regulations can also be demanding. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including materials scientists and process engineers, is key to addressing these technical and practical challenges efficiently.
What are popular job titles related to Surface Engineering jobs in California?
For Surface Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Surface Engineering jobs in California look for?
The top searched job categories for Surface Engineering jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Surface Engineering jobs?
Cities in California with the most Surface Engineering job openings:
Lam Research rating
8.2
Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
130th of 489 rated machine equipment manufacturers
Job description
The group you'll be a part of
The Office of the CTO is where innovation takes center stage. We inspire our global technical community to take on grand challenges, understand emerging trends, identify the critical inflections, and drive our sustainability, Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices that will define the next generation of semiconductors and continued impact.
The impact you'll make
As a Process Engineer at Lam, you will operate on cutting-edge technology, harnessing atomic precision, material science, and surface engineering to push technical boundaries. Your role involves developing new and advanced process formulations, defining equipment hardware to meet processing requirements, evaluating test data, and coordinating design requirements to ensure compatibility of processing methods. Your expertise and knowledge play a crucial role our customers success, making an impact on the next generation of semiconductor breakthroughs.
In this role, you will directly contribute to the Aether Product group at Lam.
What you'll do
Who we're looking for
Minimum Qualifications:
Preferred qualifications
Our commitment
We believe it is important for every person to feel valued, included, and empowered to achieve their full potential. By bringing unique individuals and viewpoints together, we achieve extraordinary results.
Lam Research ("Lam" or the "Company") is an equal opportunity employer. Lam is committed to and reaffirms support of equal opportunity in employment and non-discrimination in employment policies, practices and procedures on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, or military and veteran status or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. It is the Company's intention to comply with all applicable laws and regulations. Company policy prohibits unlawful discrimination against applicants or employees.
Lam offers a variety of work location models based on the needs of each role. Our hybrid roles combine the benefits of on-site collaboration with colleagues and the flexibility to work remotely and fall into two categories - On-site Flex and Virtual Flex. 'On-site Flex' you'll work 3+ days per week on-site at a Lam or customer/supplier location, with the opportunity to work remotely for the balance of the week. 'Virtual Flex' you'll work 1-2 days per week on-site at a Lam or customer/supplier location, and remotely the rest of the time.
Salary
CA San Francisco Bay Area Salary Range for this position: $104,000.00 - $231,000.00.
The above salary range for this position is relevant to applicants that reside or work onsite in the California, San Francisco Bay Area only. Salary offers will depend on factors that include the location you work from, your level, education, training, specific skills, years of experience and comparison to other employees already in this role. Actual salary may vary from salary offered due to numerous factors including but not limited to unpaid time off, unpaid leave, company mandated shutdown, and other relevant factors.
Our Perks and Benefits
At Lam, our people make amazing things possible. That's why we invest in you throughout the phases of your life with a comprehensive set of outstanding benefits.
The Office of the CTO is where innovation takes center stage. We inspire our global technical community to take on grand challenges, understand emerging trends, identify the critical inflections, and drive our sustainability, Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices that will define the next generation of semiconductors and continued impact.
The impact you'll make
As a Process Engineer at Lam, you will operate on cutting-edge technology, harnessing atomic precision, material science, and surface engineering to push technical boundaries. Your role involves developing new and advanced process formulations, defining equipment hardware to meet processing requirements, evaluating test data, and coordinating design requirements to ensure compatibility of processing methods. Your expertise and knowledge play a crucial role our customers success, making an impact on the next generation of semiconductor breakthroughs.
In this role, you will directly contribute to the Aether Product group at Lam.
What you'll do
- Conduct process engineering research, development, and evaluation in support of Lam's cutting-edge semiconductor equipment and systems.
- Advance process development by combining fundamental plasma principles and modeling capabilities to access new process regimes
- Develop new processes and process improvements to increase performance and increase yields.
- Partner cross-functionally and with customers to understand roadmaps, process flow, inflection points, requirements, and business challenges.
- Collaborate internally to plan, collect data, analyze results, and report on customer demos for new process applications.
- Review and enhance processing techniques and methods applied in the manufacture and fabrication of products.
- Compile and analyze test data to establish next steps in process development and determine appropriate limits and variables for process specifications.
- Contribute to next generation product development and release activities supporting the semiconductor roadmap.
- Provide leadership, clear direction, and guidance to process technicians to support execution activities.
Who we're looking for
Minimum Qualifications:
- Master's degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or Physics or related field with 6+ years of experience; or a PhD with 3+ years' experience; or equivalent experience.
Preferred qualifications
- Familiarity with working in a laboratory and on semiconductor equipment with experience in surface preparation and analytical techniques.
- In-depth understanding of Statistical Process Control (SPC) and/or Design of Experiments (DOE).
- Highly proficient in MATLAB, Python, or other similar scientific computing language.
- Working knowledge of statistical analysis and problem-solving methodologies.
- Experience with statistical tools (JMP, Minitab, etc.)
- Background in Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD), Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD), Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (PECVD), or Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD).
- Background in Plasma Physics, Reactive Ion Etching (RIE), Atomic Layer Etching (ALE), Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP), Capacitively Coupled Plasma (CCP).
- Knowledge of Material synthesis and material characterization.
- Experience working in a collaborative and matrixed environment with diverse teams, semiconductor customers, and/or partners.
- Experience in semiconductor, process design, deposition, etch dielectrics or conductor, metal films, etc.
Our commitment
We believe it is important for every person to feel valued, included, and empowered to achieve their full potential. By bringing unique individuals and viewpoints together, we achieve extraordinary results.
Lam Research ("Lam" or the "Company") is an equal opportunity employer. Lam is committed to and reaffirms support of equal opportunity in employment and non-discrimination in employment policies, practices and procedures on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, or military and veteran status or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. It is the Company's intention to comply with all applicable laws and regulations. Company policy prohibits unlawful discrimination against applicants or employees.
Lam offers a variety of work location models based on the needs of each role. Our hybrid roles combine the benefits of on-site collaboration with colleagues and the flexibility to work remotely and fall into two categories - On-site Flex and Virtual Flex. 'On-site Flex' you'll work 3+ days per week on-site at a Lam or customer/supplier location, with the opportunity to work remotely for the balance of the week. 'Virtual Flex' you'll work 1-2 days per week on-site at a Lam or customer/supplier location, and remotely the rest of the time.
Salary
CA San Francisco Bay Area Salary Range for this position: $104,000.00 - $231,000.00.
The above salary range for this position is relevant to applicants that reside or work onsite in the California, San Francisco Bay Area only. Salary offers will depend on factors that include the location you work from, your level, education, training, specific skills, years of experience and comparison to other employees already in this role. Actual salary may vary from salary offered due to numerous factors including but not limited to unpaid time off, unpaid leave, company mandated shutdown, and other relevant factors.
Our Perks and Benefits
At Lam, our people make amazing things possible. That's why we invest in you throughout the phases of your life with a comprehensive set of outstanding benefits.
What Lam Research employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About Lam Research
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Lam Research designs and builds products for semiconductor manufacturing, including equipment for thin film deposition, plasma etch, photoresist strip, and wafer cleaning processes.
Industry
Manufacturing
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Fremont, CA, US
Year founded
1980