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X Ray Diffraction Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lab Technician

Corning, NY · On-site

$37 - $40/hr

Lab Technician Industry: Manufacturing Location: Corning, NY Rate: $37.44-$40.12/hr Interview ... Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) * Glass and refractory sample ...

This position will focus heavily on X-ray Diffraction (XRD), residual stress, retained austenite ... technicians, and laboratory personnel Preferred Qualifications 2-5 years of materials engineering ...

Semi MFG Technician 2

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$35K - $60K/yr

Experience and familiarity with compound semiconductor epitaxy equipment, processes, and characterization tools (including photoluminescence and x-ray diffraction) is highly desirable, but not ...

Experience and familiarity with compound semiconductor epitaxy equipment, processes, and characterization tools (including photoluminescence and x-ray diffraction) is highly desirable, but not ...

$21.78 - $30.53/hr

... X-ray diffraction * Coordinate and submit samples for external analytical services such as ... Willingness to interact with fellow technicians, research scientists, students, and vendors with a ...

Laboratory Instrumentation Technician (Equipment Repair and Maintenance) Bryn Mawr College: Science ... X-ray diffraction, NMR, etc.) * Demonstratedproficiencyin the use and troubleshooting of ...

Title: Chemical Engineer Location: Columbus, IN (onsite) Duration: 12 months Position type: W2 contract Required Skills * Strong expertise in chemical kinetics, heterogeneous catalysis ...

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X Ray Diffraction Technician information

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How much do x ray diffraction technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for x ray diffraction technician in the United States is $27.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $36.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an X ray diffraction technician do?

An X Ray Diffraction Technician operates and maintains X-ray diffraction (XRD) equipment to analyze the structure and composition of materials. Their work involves preparing samples, running tests, and interpreting data to identify crystalline phases and determine material properties. They often collaborate with scientists, engineers, or quality control teams in research labs or industrial settings. Additionally, they ensure that the equipment is calibrated and maintained for accurate results, and they may also be responsible for troubleshooting technical issues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an X ray diffraction technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an X Ray Diffraction Technician, you need a solid background in materials science, chemistry, or physics, typically supported by a relevant degree or technical training. Familiarity with X-ray diffraction (XRD) equipment, data analysis software (like JADE or HighScore), and laboratory safety protocols is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help technicians accurately analyze samples and convey results. These competencies are crucial for ensuring precise data collection, maintaining equipment integrity, and supporting research or quality control objectives.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an X ray diffraction technician?

As an X Ray Diffraction Technician, your daily tasks usually involve preparing and mounting samples, calibrating and operating XRD instruments, conducting diffraction experiments, and analyzing resulting data to identify material structures. You’ll also maintain detailed records and ensure equipment is functioning properly, sometimes troubleshooting minor technical issues. Collaboration with scientists and engineers is common, especially when interpreting results or optimizing experimental protocols. Attention to safety and quality control is essential in this laboratory environment.

What is the difference between X Ray Diffraction Technician vs X Ray Technician?

AspectX Ray Diffraction TechnicianX Ray Technician
CredentialsCertification in X Ray Diffraction or related fields, radiologic technologist licenseRadiologic technologist certification/license
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, industrial settingsHospitals, clinics, medical offices
Industry UsageResearch, materials analysis, industrial quality controlMedical imaging for diagnosis

While both roles involve X-ray technology, X Ray Diffraction Technicians focus on analyzing material structures using specialized equipment in research or industrial settings. In contrast, X Ray Technicians primarily perform medical imaging to assist in patient diagnosis. The certifications overlap but differ based on the specific field and environment.

More about X Ray Diffraction Technician jobs
Infographic showing various X Ray Diffraction Technician job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,394 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

Xray Diffraction Scientist

Naval Nuclear Laboratory

Niskayuna, NY • On-site

$95K - $149K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Naval Nuclear Laboratory rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

About Us

Working at the Naval Nuclear Laboratory we foster pride in belonging to an organization whose culture is made up of these core values: Trust, Empowerment, and Collaboration. Our company promotes a positive culture while ensuring the safety and reliability of our nation's naval nuclear reactors, and training the Sailors who operate those reactors in the U.S. Navy's submarines and aircraft carrier Fleets. Looking for a lifetime career? Apply today!

Job Description

The X-ray Diffraction Scientist will be responsible for performing materials characterization at Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory in support of the United States Navy. Primary duties include conducting X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements, analyzing structural data, and interpreting results to inform material selections, production engineering processes, and fleet applications. The successful candidate will collaborate with materials scientists, production engineers, and fleet support teams to solve complex challenges and enhance the performance of materials used in demanding naval and nuclear environments. Meticulous documentation, technical reporting, and an ability to communicate findings to multidisciplinary teams are essential aspects of this role.

Required Combination of Knowledge and Skill
Bachelors degree from an accredited college or university in a related technical, engineering or science field and a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience; or Masters degree from an accredited college or university in a related technical, engineering or science field and a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience; or Doctorate degree from an accredited college or university in a related technical, engineering or science field and a minimum of 1 year of relevant experience; or Currently a Senior Reactor Training Engineer, Refueling Engineer, or Field (RPCO) Engineer at the Company.
Preferred Skills

* Experience supporting Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Defense, or Nuclear Navy programs
* Familiarity with additional materials characterization tools (e.g., SEM, TEM, EDS, hardness testing)
* Advanced data analysis experience, including software for XRD data interpretation
* Background in production engineering or practical experience supporting fleet operations
* Familiarity with ceramics, metallic alloys, and other materials relevant to nuclear environments
* Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary technical initiatives or projects

* Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Materials Science, Mechanical Metallurgy, Ceramic Engineering, Physics, or a closely related field
* Demonstrated proficiency with X-ray diffraction techniques, including measurement and analysis
* Strong understanding of crystal structures, materials characterization methods, and phase identification
* Experience working in a laboratory or research environment, preferably in an applied engineering context
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with capability to prepare technical reports

Compensation and Benefits
  • Health, Dental, Vision & Voluntary Benefits
  • Disability, Life & Accident Insurance
  • 401(k) Savings program & Capital Accumulation Plan
  • Personal & Medical Time Off
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Flexible Work Schedules
  • Tuition Assistance for Eligible Employees
  • Student Debt Benefit Personal Time Off Sell Program
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Wellness Program
  • Visit us online to view all NNL benefits!
Pay Range
$95,700.00 - $149,600.00 annually
Salary information provided is a general guideline only. Annual salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is operated for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) by Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC (FMP), a wholly owned subsidiary of Fluor Corporation. Naval Nuclear Laboratory personnel are FMP employees who work at four DOE facilities: Bettis Atomic Power Laboratory, Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory, Kenneth A. Kesselring Site, and Naval Reactors Facility, and at the U.S. Department of Defense-owned Nuclear Power Training Unit-Charleston. FMP employees also have an established presence at numerous shipyards and vendor locations. For nearly 70 years, the Naval Nuclear Laboratory has developed advanced nuclear propulsion technology, provided technical support, and trained world-class nuclear operators to ensure the safe and reliable operation of our nation's submarine and aircraft carrier Fleets. The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is a national asset solely dedicated to the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. We rely on the dedication and innovation of our nearly 8000 engineers, scientists, technicians, and support personnel.

All candidates must be U.S. citizens. Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter. FMP is a government contractor and maintains a drug free workplace and workforce. All candidates must be able to pass a drug test in compliance with FMP company policy and 10 CFR 707. Marijuana is a Federal Schedule I controlled substance and illegal under Federal Law. Therefore, FMP is required to test for marijuana.

Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other criteria protected by federal, state, or local law.

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