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Vacuum Engineering Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Rigaku

Mechanical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

Design ultra-stable mounts, stages, vacuum-compatible structures, housings and alignment mechanisms * Create detailed 3D CAD models and engineering drawings with appropriate GD&T * Support laboratory ...

Rigaku

Mechanical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

Design ultra-stable mounts, stages, vacuum-compatible structures, housings and alignment mechanisms * Create detailed 3D CAD models and engineering drawings with appropriate GD&T * Support laboratory ...

Oerlikon

Engineering Intern

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Engineering Intern We are looking for an Engineering Intern for our Plymouth, MI facility ... In this role you will gain an introduction to vacuum/inert induction melting, gas atomization ...

Howmet Aerospace

Engineering Leader - NPI

Whitehall, MI · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

... advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. Our primary ... Our vacuum melted superalloys, machining, performance coatings and hot isostatic pressing for high ...

KLA-Belgium

Electron Beam Product Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$76.30 - $129.70/hr

Advanced degree in Physics, Optics, Electrical, Material Science, or Mechanical engineering * Hands on experience in high voltage, ultra-high vacuum, and electron microscopy * Inquisitive ...

KLA

Electron Beam Product Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$126K - $151K/yr

Advanced degree in Physics, Optics, Electrical, Material Science, or Mechanical engineering * Hands on experience in high voltage, ultra-high vacuum, and electron microscopy * Inquisitive ...

Orbotech

Electron Beam Product Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$126K - $151K/yr

Advanced degree in Physics, Optics, Electrical, Material Science, or Mechanical engineering * Hands on experience in high voltage, ultra-high vacuum, and electron microscopy * Inquisitive ...

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Vacuum Engineering information

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How much do vacuum engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for vacuum engineering in Michigan is $27.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $33.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is vacuum engineering?

Vacuum engineering is a specialized field focused on the design, creation, and maintenance of vacuum environments, where air and other gases are removed to achieve very low pressure. This technology is crucial for various industries, including semiconductor manufacturing, scientific research, aerospace, and material processing. Professionals in vacuum engineering work with equipment such as pumps, chambers, gauges, and seals to achieve and sustain the desired vacuum levels for different applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a vacuum engineer?

To thrive as a Vacuum Engineer, you need a solid background in physics or engineering, with expertise in vacuum systems and relevant industry standards. Familiarity with vacuum pumps, gauges, leak detection equipment, and CAD software is typically required, and certifications such as those from the American Vacuum Society (AVS) can be beneficial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for troubleshooting and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are essential for ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of vacuum systems in research and industrial applications.

What are some common challenges faced by vacuum engineers during the design and maintenance of vacuum systems?

Vacuum engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining system integrity to prevent leaks, selecting appropriate materials that minimize outgassing, and troubleshooting pressure inconsistencies. Working closely with multidisciplinary teams—including mechanical engineers, technicians, and quality assurance specialists—is essential for addressing these issues efficiently. Additionally, adapting to advancements in vacuum technology and ensuring compliance with safety standards are crucial aspects of the role, making ongoing learning and collaboration a regular part of the job.

What is the difference between Vacuum Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectVacuum EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in mechanical, electrical, or vacuum engineering; certifications in vacuum technology are a plusRequires a degree in mechanical engineering; professional engineer (PE) license may be beneficial
Work EnvironmentSpecialized labs, manufacturing plants, or research facilities focused on vacuum systemsFactories, design offices, or research labs across various industries
Industry UsagePrimarily in industries like semiconductor, aerospace, and scientific researchBroadly used across automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and energy sectors

Vacuum Engineering focuses on designing, developing, and maintaining vacuum systems, often requiring specialized knowledge of vacuum technology. Mechanical Engineering covers a wider range of mechanical systems and components, applicable across many industries. While both roles require strong engineering fundamentals, Vacuum Engineers specialize in vacuum-specific applications, whereas Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope.

What are popular job titles related to Vacuum Engineering jobs in Michigan?

For Vacuum Engineering jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Vacuum Engineering jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Vacuum Engineering jobs in Michigan are:

Vacuum Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vacuum Engineering job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,198 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer

Rigaku

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Join Rigaku in shaping a better world through new perspectives!
Essential Functions:
  • Design and develop precision opto-mechanical systems for X-ray optics, including mirrors, monochromators, x-ray sources, and other elements.
  • Collaborate with X-ray optical scientists and engineers to translate optical and experimental requirements into mechanical designs
  • Perform tolerance, thermal, and structural analyses to ensure optical performance and mechanical stability
  • Design ultra-stable mounts, stages, vacuum-compatible structures, housings and alignment mechanisms
  • Create detailed 3D CAD models and engineering drawings with appropriate GD&T
  • Support laboratory experiments including assembly, integration, alignment, and testing of X-ray optical systems
  • Participate in system characterization, and performance optimization
  • Troubleshoot mechanical and opto-mechanical issues during experimental operation
  • Support prototype build, optical alignment, integration, and verification test
  • Troubleshoot mechanical and opto-mechanical issues during development and production
  • Work with manufacturing partners to ensure designs are manufacturable, testable, and cost-effective
  • Document designs, analyses, test results, engineering changes, and design iterations

Reasonable Accommodations Statement
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.
POSITION QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Opto-Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field

Experience:
  • Experience with precision motion systems, nanopositioning devices, and interferometric alignment
  • Familiarity with vacuum systems, vacuum compatible materials, and clean assembly practices
  • 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, synchrotron instrumentation, or related fields
  • Hands-on capability and experience with X-ray optical components (mirrors, monochromators, multilayers, zone plates, etc.)

Competencies:
  • Proficiency with 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks)
  • Understanding of opto-mechanical principles: alignment sensitivity, thermal effects, vibration, and stability
  • Strong analytical and experimental problem-solving skills
  • High attention to detail and precision
  • Ability to work independently in a research setting while collaborating across disciplines
  • Comfortable with iterative design and experimental uncertainty
  • Good technical communication skills (written and verbal)
  • The following are not required but highly appreciated:
    • Hands-on capability and experience with X-ray optical components (mirrors, monochromators, multilayers, zone plates, etc.)
    • Familiarity with vacuum systems, vacuum compatible materials, and clean assembly practices
    • Experience with precision motion systems, nano positioning stages, and interferometric alignment

Apply