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Tem Microscopy Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Tem Microscopy information

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$13

$28

$37

How much do tem microscopy jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for tem microscopy in Washington is $28.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.87 and $32.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is TEM microscopy?

TEM microscopy, or Transmission Electron Microscopy, is a technique that uses a beam of electrons transmitted through an ultra-thin specimen to form an image. This method allows scientists to observe the fine structure and details of cells, materials, and nanostructures at very high magnifications and resolutions, far beyond what is possible with light microscopes. TEM is widely used in fields such as materials science, biology, and nanotechnology to analyze the internal structure and composition of samples at the atomic or molecular level.

What is a TEM technician?

A TEM (Transmission Electron Microscope) technician is a specialized professional responsible for operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting transmission electron microscopes used to examine materials at the atomic or molecular level. They often require technical training, knowledge of electron microscopy techniques, and safety protocols to produce high-resolution images for research or quality control. The role may also involve sample preparation and data analysis.

What are some common challenges encountered by TEM Microscopy professionals, and how can they be addressed?

TEM Microscopy professionals often face challenges such as sample preparation difficulties, maintaining instrument calibration, and interpreting complex data. Preparing ultra-thin and artifact-free samples demands precision and patience, while regular maintenance and alignment of the microscope are crucial for obtaining high-quality images. Collaborating with colleagues in materials science or biology can also aid in data interpretation and troubleshooting. Continuous training and staying updated with new techniques can help overcome these challenges and improve workflow efficiency.

How much do microscope technicians make?

Microscope technicians typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often require knowledge of microscopy tools and may need certifications or specialized training to increase earning potential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy) Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a TEM Microscopy Specialist, you need a strong background in materials science, physics, or a related field, often supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree and laboratory experience. Proficiency in using transmission electron microscopes, image analysis software, and sample preparation techniques is vital, and certifications in microscopy or advanced instrumentation can be advantageous. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are essential soft skills for interpreting complex data and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure accurate analysis, reliable research outcomes, and successful contributions to scientific and industrial projects.

How expensive is a TEM microscope?

A transmission electron microscopy (TEM) microscope typically costs between $200,000 and $1 million, depending on its specifications, features, and brand. The high cost reflects the advanced technology, precision components, and specialized training required to operate and maintain the instrument.

What do TEM microscopes do?

TEM microscopy, used by professionals in the field, involves transmitting a beam of electrons through a very thin specimen to produce highly detailed images at the atomic or molecular level. TEM microscopes are essential for analyzing the internal structure of materials, biological samples, and nanomaterials, requiring specialized training and often operating in research or industrial laboratories.

What is the difference between Tem Microscopy vs Scanning Electron Microscopy?

AspectTem MicroscopyScanning Electron Microscopy
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in materials science, physics, or related fields; training in electron microscopySimilar educational background; often requires specialized training in SEM operation
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, often in research or industrial labsLaboratory environments, used in research, quality control, and materials analysis
UsageProvides detailed internal structure images at atomic or nanometer scaleProduces detailed surface images with 3D-like surface topography

Tem Microscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy are both advanced imaging techniques used in scientific research and industry. Tem Microscopy focuses on internal structures at high resolution, while SEM emphasizes surface topography. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are used in similar environments, but they serve different analytical purposes.

What are popular job titles related to Tem Microscopy jobs in Washington? For Tem Microscopy jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Tem Microscopy jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Tem Microscopy jobs in Washington are:
Infographic showing various Tem Microscopy job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,267 per year, or $29 per hour.
NIST PREP Postdoctoral Research Associate in Electron Microscopy

NIST PREP Postdoctoral Research Associate in Electron Microscopy

Southeastern Universities Research Association

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$82K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

This position is part of the National Institute of Standards (NIST) Professional Research Experience (PREP) program. NIST recognizes that its research staff may wish to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest, thus requires that such institutions must be the recipient of a PREP award. The PREP program requires staff from a wide range of backgrounds to work on scientific research in many areas. Employees in this position will perform technical work that underpins the scientific research of the collaboration.
Research Title: Postdoctoral Research Associate in Electron Microscopy
The work will entail:NIST is actively seeking a candidate for a postdoctoral research position as part of a project related to the CHIPS for America Act. The project seeks to develop quantitative, atomic-resolution methods for the three-dimensional characterization of complex semiconductor devices via electron tomography. By coupling advance specimen preparation, cutting-edge electron microscopy instrumentation, and AI-driven data collection and reconstruction, we will deliver a robust suite of measurement tools to the semiconductor industry.
Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
  • Sample preparation via focused ion beam methods
  • Collecting and processing of TEM tomography data
  • Presenting results at internal meetings, and occasional meetings with external stakeholders.
  • Ensuring that results, protocols, software, and documentation have been archived or otherwise transmitted to the larger organization.

Qualifications
  • PhD. in Physics, Materials Science, or a related field with a concentration in electron microscopy methods
  • Experience in the collection and processing of TEM/STEM data
  • Computer programming for custom data processing
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.

Privacy Act StatementAuthority: 15 U.S.C. § 278g-1(e)(1) and (e)(3) and 15 U.S.C. § 272(b) and (c)
Purpose: The National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) hosts the Professional Research Experience Program (PREP) which is designed to provide valuable laboratory experience and financial assistance to undergraduates, post-bachelor's degree holders, graduate students, master's degree holders, postdocs, and faculty.
PREP is a 5-year cooperative agreement between NIST laboratories and participating PREP Universities to establish a collaborative research relationship between NIST and U.S. institutions of higher education in the following disciplines including (but may not be limited to) biochemistry, biological sciences, chemistry, computer science, engineering, electronics, materials science, mathematics, nanoscale science, neutron science, physical science, physics, and statistics. This collection of information is needed to facilitate administrative functions of the PREP Program.
Routine Uses: NIST will use the information collected to perform the requisite reviews of the applications to determine eligibility, and to meet programmatic requirements. Disclosure of this information is also subject to all the published routine uses as identified in the Privacy Act System of Records Notices: NIST-1: NIST Associates.
Disclosure: Furnishing this information is voluntary. When you submit the form, you are indicating your voluntary consent for NIST to use of the information you submit for the purpose stated. By applying to a CHIPS-funded PREP opportunity, you also acknowledge that participation in the project requires signing a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) prior to beginning any work.
SURA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that no one should be discriminated against because of their differences, such as age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity and expression, religion, or sexual orientation. All employment decisions shall be made without regard to age, race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status, or any other basis as protected by federal, state, or local law.
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