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Thin Film Coating Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Attalon, Inc.

Thin Film Technician

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

S., Attalon engineers critical optical, laser, and coating technologies that enable systems to see ... Job Summary The Thin Film Technician provides technical support, under direct supervision, in all ...

Corning

Optical Coating Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

As a member of the Advanced Optics Division Engineering Optical Thin Film Coating group, you will define and develop optical thin film coatings and manufacturing processes that build on Corning ...

Corning

Optical Coating Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

As a member of the Advanced Optics Division Engineering Optical Thin Film Coating group, you will define and develop optical thin film coatings and manufacturing processes that build on Corning ...

Erickson International

Be Seen First

Thin Film Coating Technician

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Experience with vacuum systems, sputtering equipment, or thin-film deposition processes. * Experience working in manufacturing or industrial production environments. Work Environment This role is ...

Corning

Optical Coating Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

As a member of the Advanced Optics Division Engineering Optical Thin Film Coating group, you will define and develop optical thin film coatings and manufacturing processes that build on Corning ...

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Thin Film Coating Engineer information

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$75.5K

$100.3K

$122.5K

How much do thin film coating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for thin film coating engineer in the United States is $100,319.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,500.00 and $109,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a thin film coating engineer do?

A Thin Film Coating Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing thin film deposition processes used to create specialized coatings on materials and components. These coatings are often applied to enhance properties such as durability, reflectivity, conductivity, or resistance to corrosion. The engineer works with advanced equipment like vacuum chambers and sputtering systems, conducts testing and quality control, and troubleshoots issues to ensure the coatings meet strict specifications. Thin film coatings are widely used in industries such as electronics, optics, aerospace, and renewable energy.

How does a thin film coating engineer typically collaborate with other departments during the product development process?

Thin Film Coating Engineers frequently work alongside R&D, quality assurance, and production teams to ensure coatings meet both performance and manufacturing requirements. They participate in cross-functional meetings, share technical insights on material properties, and help troubleshoot issues that arise during scale-up. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as the engineer must often explain technical concepts to non-specialists and incorporate feedback to optimize coating processes. This collaborative environment enables continuous improvement and successful product launches.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a thin film coating engineer, and why are they important?

A Thin Film Coating Engineer needs a solid background in materials science, physics, or engineering, often with a relevant bachelor's or advanced degree. Familiarity with deposition systems (such as PVD, CVD), vacuum equipment, and characterization tools, along with certifications in cleanroom or safety protocols, is highly valuable. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help engineers excel in troubleshooting and cross-functional collaboration. These competencies are crucial to ensuring precise coating processes, high product quality, and innovation in advanced manufacturing environments.

What is the difference between Thin Film Coating Engineer vs Coatings Technician?

AspectThin Film Coating EngineerCoatings Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in materials science, engineering, or related fieldHigh school diploma or associate degree, specialized training
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departmentsProduction lines, coating application areas, maintenance settings
Industry UsageDesigning and developing coating processes, quality controlApplying coatings, equipment setup, routine maintenance

The main difference is that Thin Film Coating Engineers focus on designing, developing, and improving coating processes, often requiring higher education and analytical skills. Coatings Technicians typically handle the application and maintenance of coatings in production settings, with more hands-on work and less emphasis on process development.

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Thin Film Coating Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Thin Film Coating Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,319 per year, or $48.2 per hour.

Thin Film Technician

Attalon, Inc.

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Attalon is a leading technology partner to the global aerospace and defense industry, specializing in the physics of light and heat. With over 500 employees in the U.S., Attalon engineers critical optical, laser, and coating technologies that enable systems to see farther, target faster, and survive the harshest environments. From high-energy directed laser systems to satellite optics and hypersonic thermal protection, Attalon equips the warfighter with the advantage of precision.

Attalon, located in Northeast Philadelphia, specializes in the manufacture of precision patterned optics, calibration grids, reticles, and specialty patterned products for the commercial and defense markets. The Philadelphia site is located in close proximity to major highways and transportation hubs, providing easy access to the surrounding Bucks County and Center City Philadelphia areas. The Greater Philadelphia area is a dynamic economic hub that combines world-class healthcare, education, and industrial sectors with rich cultural heritage and diverse communities, making it an ideal region for both career advancement and quality living.


Job Summary

The Thin Film Technician provides technical support, under direct supervision, in all aspects of the Thin Film Coating process including thin film testing and quality control. Performs support functions with minor decision authority to keep manufacturing running effectively and escalate issues to management.


Responsibilities

  • Perform daily production of thin film deposition; ensure product meets customer specifications. 
  • Execute basic substrate handling and cleaning.
  • Perform spectral testing and interferometric tests.
  • Support manufacturing operations to ensure on-time delivery.
  • Report discrepancies in processes or procedures to lead personnel.
  • Track inventory of parts and supplies; flag low inventory.
  • Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of coating machines including acid stripping, bead blasting, assembly/disassembly.
  • Conduct intermediate troubleshooting such as leak detection, pump-down time testing, and ion gauge monitoring.
  • Maintain process documentation, test procedures, and inspection reports.
  • Categorize and log witness samples; track precious metal usage.
  • Support engineering in developing new thin film coatings and processes.


Minimum Qualifications

  • High School diploma or GED or equivalent experience required
  • 4+ years advanced manufacturing experience OR relevant degree/certification


Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous thin film experience preferred
  • Basic knowledge of spectrophotometers, microscopes, interferometers, and similar tools


Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Attalon, Inc. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Export Control Compliance

This role involves access to technology, materials, software, or hardware subject to U.S. export control laws. Therefore, to be considered, candidates must be classified as a “U.S. Person” under applicable regulations or be eligible for authorization under a U.S. government export license.

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