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Thin Films Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Thin Film Process Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Grow ferroelectric thin films using RF sputtering and integrate them into microelectronic devices. * Perform cleanroom microelectronics fabrication for device integration and prototyping. * Conduct ...

Thin Films information

What is a thin films job?

A Thin Films job involves working with microscopic layers of materials that are deposited onto surfaces to create specific optical, electrical, or mechanical properties. Professionals in this field typically work in industries such as semiconductors, optics, or material science, using techniques like sputtering, chemical vapor deposition (CVD), or atomic layer deposition (ALD). Responsibilities may include process development, quality control, equipment maintenance, and research to improve thin-film performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the thin films position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Thin Films role, you need a solid background in materials science, chemistry, physics, or engineering and hands-on experience with thin film deposition techniques such as sputtering, evaporation, or chemical vapor deposition. Familiarity with characterization tools like ellipsometry, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy, as well as relevant certifications or cleanroom experience, is highly advantageous. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and clear communication are key soft skills. These capabilities are essential for ensuring precise film fabrication, data accuracy, and effective collaboration in R&D or manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in thin films, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Thin Films often encounter challenges related to achieving uniform film thickness, managing contamination in cleanroom environments, and optimizing deposition parameters for specific material properties. Addressing these challenges typically requires a combination of technical expertise, careful experimental design, and strict adherence to laboratory protocols. Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams—such as process engineers, researchers, and quality control staff—is also crucial for troubleshooting and continuous improvement. Staying current with advances in deposition and characterization techniques further contributes to overcoming technical hurdles and achieving project goals.

What are popular job titles related to Thin Films jobs in Ohio?

For Thin Films jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Thin Films job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Thin Film Process Engineer

Apex Microdevices

Dayton, OH • On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Microelectronics Thin Film Growth Research Engineer

Apex Microdevices is seeking an entry-level research scientist or engineer focused on ferroelectric nitride materials and device prototyping to join the Electromagnetic Materials and Processing Research Team within the Foundational Technologies Directorate (former Materials and Manufacturing Directorate) at the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio. This position focuses on developing ferroelectric AlScN and related materials and integrating them into semiconductor platforms for memory, RF, and advanced capacitor applications.

Why Join Apex Microdevices?

  • Competitive compensation and benefits
  • Opportunity to work on advanced microelectronics technologies
  • Relocation assistance available.

Responsibilities for this role include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Grow ferroelectric thin films using RF sputtering and integrate them into microelectronic devices.
  • Perform cleanroom microelectronics fabrication for device integration and prototyping.
  • Conduct electrical characterization of ferroelectric switching and leakage behavior.
  • Support development of ferroelectric semiconductor platforms for memory, RF, and advanced capacitor concepts.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • PhD in electrical engineering, materials science, physics, or a related discipline
  • Early-career (0-10 years post Ph.D.) research experience in thin film growth, including RF sputtering of ferroelectric thin films
  • Experience with cleanroom microelectronics fabrication and device integration
  • Familiarity with electrical characterization of ferroelectric switching and leakage behavior
  • Excellent technical communication skills as demonstrated by research conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications.
  • U.S. citizenship required
  • Must be able to pass a background check required for all contractors who work on-site at WPAFB and use government computer networks.

Desired Qualifications

  • Experience with high-power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS)
  • Background in compute or memory device electrical characterization
  • Broad expertise in electrical characterization and device fabrication