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Thin Film Process Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

... fixed-film processes, membrane bio-reactors (MBR), sidestream treatment, tertiary filtration ... Professional Engineer Licensed required (PE) or the ability to obtain in 6-12 months * 4+ years of ...

... fixed-film processes, membrane bio-reactors (MBR), sidestream treatment, tertiary filtration ... Professional Engineer Licensed required (PE) or the ability to obtain in 6-12 months * 4+ years of ...

... fixed-film processes, membrane bio-reactors (MBR), sidestream treatment, tertiary filtration ... Professional Engineer Licensed required (PE) or the ability to obtain in 6-12 months * 4+ years of ...

RF Applications Engineer

Adamstown, MD · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

The engineer will provide technical leadership and support across various stages of product ... Knowledge of metallization processes, including thick film, photolithography, and thin film.

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Thin Film Process Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$56.1K

$104.2K

$161.4K

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

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for thin film process engineer in Washington is $104,219.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,400.00 and $116,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a thin film process engineer?

A Thin Film Process Engineer develops and optimizes thin-film deposition processes used in semiconductor, optics, or display manufacturing. They work with techniques such as sputtering, chemical vapor deposition (CVD), and atomic layer deposition (ALD) to create precise coatings on substrates. Their responsibilities include process development, troubleshooting, equipment maintenance, and improving yield and quality. Collaboration with cross-functional teams to enhance production efficiency and implement new technologies is also a key aspect of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a thin film process engineer?

To thrive as a Thin Film Process Engineer, you typically need a degree in materials science, physics, chemical engineering, or a related field, along with hands-on experience in thin film deposition and characterization techniques. Familiarity with tools such as sputtering systems, chemical vapor deposition (CVD), ellipsometry, and statistical process control (SPC) software is highly valued, and certifications like Six Sigma can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to effectively communicate and collaborate within multidisciplinary teams help professionals excel in this role. These skills and qualities ensure precise process development, high-quality thin film production, and efficient cross-functional workflow in technology-driven environments.

What are typical challenges faced by thin film process engineers in their daily work?

Thin Film Process Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining process consistency, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and optimizing deposition parameters for specific material properties. They must carefully monitor and control variables to produce defect-free films, which requires both technical precision and adaptability. Working closely with R&D, production, and quality teams is a regular part of the job, and engineers are often called upon to provide quick solutions to unexpected process issues. These challenges make for a dynamic work environment where attention to detail and proactive problem-solving are keys to success.

What are popular job titles related to Thin Film Process Engineer jobs in Washington?

For Thin Film Process Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Thin Film Process Engineer jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Thin Film Process Engineer jobs in Washington are:

Infographic showing various Thin Film Process Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $104,219 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

Microfabrication Engineer

ADNET Systems, Inc.

Greenbelt, MD • On-site

$95K - $145K/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Job Description
Microfabrication Engineer
Job Description
The Microfabrication Engineer shall serve as a hands-on technical specialist supporting the development, optimization, and sustainment of microfabrication processes for MEMS devices and advanced spaceflight instrumentation within NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) laboratories. The engineer will apply expertise in semiconductor fabrication techniques to enable the production and integration of high-reliability micro-scale devices used in space and scientific missions.
The candidate will operate within a cleanroom environment and collaborate closely with design engineers, systems engineers, and test personnel to translate device requirements into robust fabrication processes. Responsibilities include executing and refining photolithography workflows, thin-film deposition processes, and etching techniques while ensuring consistency, repeatability, and compliance with established process controls.
The engineer will troubleshoot fabrication issues, perform root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions to improve device yield and performance. Responsibilities include conducting process characterization using metrology tools such as optical and electron microscopy, ellipsometry, and electrical test equipment, and interpreting data to support process optimization.
The role includes development and documentation of fabrication procedures, process flows, and technical reports in accordance with NASA and industry standards. The engineer will support process integration efforts, contribute to Design of Experiments (DOE) activities, and provide clear technical assessments to project teams and laboratory management.
The candidate will support ongoing laboratory operations, including adherence to cleanroom protocols, equipment usage, and safety standards. Participation in multidisciplinary teams and contributions to continuous process improvement initiatives are expected. Limited support for external collaborators or project reviews may be required.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or a related technical discipline.
  • Minimum 3 years of demonstrated hands-on experience in semiconductor, MEMS, or microfabrication environments.
  • Demonstrated expertise in photolithography processes, including photoresist application, exposure systems (mask aligners, steppers, or e-beam lithography), and pattern development.
  • Experience with thin-film deposition techniques, including PVD, CVD/PECVD, thermal oxidation, and ALD.
  • Proficiency in etching techniques, including wet chemical etching, RIE, DRIE, and vapor phase etching.
  • Experience operating metrology and characterization equipment including microscopy, ellipsometry, and electrical probing.
  • Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot fabrication processes and perform root cause analysis.
  • Ability to work independently and effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
  • Strong organizational and documentation skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • US Citizenship or lawful permanent US residency required.
Desired Qualifications
  • Master’s or PhD in a relevant engineering or scientific discipline.
  • Experience working in Class 10–1000 cleanroom environments.
  • Familiarity with MEMS device design principles and fabrication challenges.
  • Experience with process integration and wafer-level fabrication workflows.
  • Knowledge and application of Design of Experiments (DOE) methodologies.
  • Prior experience supporting NASA, aerospace, or government laboratory environments.