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Synchrotron Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kansas State University

Fellow (Post Doc)

Manhattan, KS · On-site

$50K - $58K/yr

Furthermore, we regularly conduct experiments at external X-ray free-electron laser and synchrotron radiation facilities in Stanford, CA, and Hamburg, Germany. Some of the responsibilities and ...

LSU AgCenter

Postdoctoral Researcher

Argonne, WI · On-site

D. in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry or related field Prior experience with synchrotron-based X-ray techniques, particularly X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS: XANES/EXAFS ...

Rigaku

Mechanical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI

Background in supporting experiments at synchrotron or laboratory X-ray sources * Experience collaborating with scientists on exploratory or R&D projects * Research experience in X-ray optics ...

Rigaku

Mechanical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

Background in supporting experiments at synchrotron or laboratory X-ray sources * Experience collaborating with scientists on exploratory or R&D projects * Research experience in X-ray optics ...

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Synchrotron information

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How much do synchrotron jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for synchrotron in the United States is $85,959.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,000.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a synchrotron?

A synchrotron is a type of particle accelerator that uses powerful magnets and electric fields to accelerate charged particles, such as electrons, to nearly the speed of light. As these particles are accelerated in a circular path, they emit extremely bright light known as synchrotron radiation. This light is then used in a variety of scientific research fields, including physics, materials science, biology, and chemistry, to study the structure and properties of different materials at the molecular and atomic level.

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

To thrive as a Synchrotron Scientist, you need a strong background in physics, materials science, or a related field, often supported by a relevant PhD and research experience. Expertise in synchrotron radiation techniques, data analysis software, and familiarity with advanced instrumentation is essential. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help in collaborating with multidisciplinary research teams and conveying complex findings. These abilities are vital for advancing scientific research, optimizing facility operations, and ensuring high-impact results.

What are some typical challenges faced by scientists working at a synchrotron facility, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Scientists at synchrotron facilities often work in highly collaborative, fast-paced environments where experiments are scheduled tightly and downtime is minimal. New hires may face challenges such as adapting to complex instrumentation, managing time efficiently during beamtime, and working with multidisciplinary teams. It's important to develop strong communication and organizational skills, as well as a willingness to learn new experimental techniques quickly. Being proactive in seeking mentorship and training opportunities can help smooth the transition and build confidence in operating specialized equipment.

What is the difference between Synchrotron vs Particle Accelerator Technician?

AspectSynchrotronParticle Accelerator Technician
CredentialsPhysics or engineering degree, certifications in accelerator technologyTechnical diploma or degree, certifications in accelerator systems
Work EnvironmentResearch facilities, laboratories, large-scale scientific installationsResearch centers, laboratories, maintenance facilities
Industry UsageScientific research, medical applications, materials scienceMaintenance, operation, and troubleshooting of accelerators

Both roles involve working with particle accelerators, but Synchrotron specialists focus on large-scale synchrotron light sources used in research, while Particle Accelerator Technicians handle the day-to-day operation and maintenance of various accelerator types. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

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What job categories do people searching Synchrotron jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Synchrotron jobs are:

Synchrotron jobs near you
Infographic showing various Synchrotron job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,959 per year, or $41.3 per hour.

Associate Staff Scientist - SSRL Accelerator Physics

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory

Menlo Park, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Position Overview:
SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory's SPEAR3 is one of the four US Department of Energy synchrotron light sources electron storage rings dedicated to producing brilliant X-ray beams. SPEAR3 serves Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource (SSRL), a national user facility with a long history of utilizing synchrotron radiation for multi-disciplinary experiments.
We are seeking an Accelerator Physicist to join our Accelerator Physics Group within the SSRL Accelerator Division. This group's responsibilities include:
  • Physics support for the maintenance and operation of the SSRL accelerator complex, which includes an RF electron gun, 120-MeV linear accelerator, a 10-Hz cycling booster synchrotron to accelerate electrons from 120 MeV to 3 GeV, and the main SPEAR3 storage ring that emits x-ray synchrotron radiation from bend magnets, wigglers and undulators.
  • Propose and help design, manage, and execute upgrades of the existing SSRL accelerators to improve their performance and/or reliability.
  • Design a next generation storage ring as a future source to serve the SSRL photon science community.

This is an exciting time for the SSRL accelerator team. The Accelerator Physics Group is exploring options for a next generation light source for SSRL. We are investigating which technologies to push to enhance performance of a future light source beyond sources currently in operation or construction. We are working closely with SSRL photon scientists to establish a strong scientific case for a new SSRL light source.
You r specific responsibilities include:
  • Contribute to the Accelerator Physics Group ongoing effort to maintain and improve the performance of the SPEAR3 storage ring and its injector.
  • Participate in accelerator physics measurements and experiments during our regularly scheduled machine development periods.
  • Contribute to design studies for a future next generation light source for SSRL. This work will include simulations and optimization of linear and nonlinear storage ring dynamics.
  • Other duties may also be assigned.

Note : This position is posted at the Associate Staff Scientist level. The Associate Scientist position is a 3-to-5-year fixed-term position and the entry level in the Staff Scientist career path. The Associate Scientist position is scheduled to be assessed after the 3 to 5-year period, with the possibility of appointment to the Staff Scientist level.
Applicants must hold a PhD degree or provide formal confirmation of completion of the PhD degree requirements prior to starting the position. Application materials must include a cover letter, a research statement (including a brief-summary of accomplishments), a curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references for future letters of recommendation.
SLAC is a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) laboratory operated by Stanford University and based in Menlo Park, CA. Given the nature of this position, SLAC will require on-site work.
To be successful in this position, you will bring:
  • A PhD in accelerator physics or related field or equivalent experience with minimum 2 years of relevant experience in accelerator and storage ring physics.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of storage ring physics including linear and nonlinear beam optics and lattice design.
  • Hands-on accelerator expertise, including the ability to quickly diagnose problems that develop with the accelerators during operations.
  • Aptitude with computer modeling codes as well as strong programming skills.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills and the ability to clearly document scientific research and projects.

SLAC employee competencies:
  • Effective Decisions: Uses job knowledge and solid judgment to make quality decisions in a timely manner.
  • Self-Development: Pursues a variety of venues and opportunities to continue learning and developing.
  • Dependability: Can be counted on to deliver results with a sense of personal responsibility for expected outcomes.
  • Initiative: Pursues work and interactions proactively with optimism, positive energy, and motivation to move things forward.
  • Adaptability: Flexes as needed when change occurs, maintains an open outlook while adjusting and accommodating changes.
  • Communication: Ensures effective information flow to various audiences and creates and delivers clear, appropriate written, spoken, presented messages.
  • Relationships: Builds relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate to achieve common goals.

Physical requirements and Working conditions :
  • Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.

Work standards:
  • Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
  • Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for environment, safety and security; communicates related concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned. Meets the applicable roles and responsibilities as described in the ESH Manual, Chapter 1 General Policy and Responsibilities: http://www-group.slac.stanford.edu/esh/eshmanual/pdfs/ESHch01.pdf
  • Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu
  • As a national laboratory, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is responsible for adhering to the Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which require employees to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, employees must successfully complete the applicable tier of federal background investigation post hire and receive a favorable federal adjudication. The tier of federal background investigation will be determined by job duties and national security or public trust responsibilities associated with the job. All tiers of investigation include a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last 1 to 7 years (depending on the applicable tier of investigation). Illegal drug activities include marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

  • Classification Title: Associate Staff Scientist
  • Grade: K, Job code: 1092
  • Duration: 3-year fixed term

The expected pay range for this position is $145,411 - $173,254 per annum
SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory/Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of the salary or hourly wage the university reasonably expects to pay for a position upon hire. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location, and external market pay for comparable jobs. At SLAC/Stanford, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package.

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