1

X Ray Fluorescence Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This position will focus heavily on X-ray Diffraction (XRD), residual stress, retained austenite, X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), and materials characterization while supporting laboratory testing ...

ICP (Inductively Coupled Plasma) spectroscopy OES (Optical Emission Spectrometer) XRF (X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer) Carbon/Sulfur and Oxygen/Nitrogen/Hydrogen Analyzers Various laboratory ...

Analytical techniques include XRay Fluorescence (XRF), XRay Diffraction (XRD), XRay Reflectometry (XRR). * Collaborate with existing customers and Rigaku factory engineers to drive new capabilities ...

XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence) * Hardness (Rockwell, Brinell, Knoop) * Carbon / Sulfur Determinator * Assist with Seismic testing utilizing tri-axial table simulation as required: * Set-up and assembly of ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

X Ray Fluorescence information

See salary details

$750

$1.7K

$2.7K

How much do x ray fluorescence jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average weekly pay for x ray fluorescence in the United States is $1,667.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,201.92 and $2,105.77 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an X ray fluorescence specialist?

An X Ray Fluorescence (XRF) specialist is a professional trained to operate XRF analyzers, which use X-rays to determine the elemental composition of materials. XRF specialists are responsible for preparing samples, conducting analyses, interpreting results, and maintaining the equipment. They work in various industries such as mining, environmental science, metallurgy, and material quality control, ensuring accurate and safe testing procedures. Their expertise helps organizations comply with regulations and make informed decisions based on material composition.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an X ray fluorescence technician?

To thrive as an X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Technician, you need a background in chemistry, materials science, or a related field, along with experience in analytical laboratory procedures. Familiarity with XRF spectrometers, laboratory information management systems (LIMS), and relevant safety certifications is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are essential soft skills for interpreting results and collaborating with others. These competencies ensure accurate material analysis, maintain safety standards, and contribute to reliable laboratory operations.

What are some common challenges faced by X ray fluorescence analysts in routine sample analysis, and how can they be addressed?

XRF analysts often encounter challenges such as matrix effects, sample heterogeneity, and instrument calibration drift. Matrix effects can impact the accuracy of results, so careful sample preparation and the use of appropriate standards are essential. Regular instrument calibration, preventive maintenance, and ongoing training help ensure reliable data. Collaborating with chemists, lab technicians, and quality assurance teams also plays a key role in troubleshooting unexpected results and maintaining high analytical standards.

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

AspectX Ray FluorescenceX Ray Technician
CertificationsOften requires specialized training in spectroscopy and safetyRequires ARRT certification and state licensing
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, industrial sitesHospitals, clinics, medical offices
Industry UsageMaterials analysis, quality control, researchMedical imaging and diagnostics

While both roles involve X-ray technology, X Ray Fluorescence specialists focus on material analysis using spectroscopy, often in industrial or research settings. X Ray Technicians operate in healthcare environments, performing diagnostic imaging. The key differences lie in their work environment, certifications, and industry applications.

More about X Ray Fluorescence jobs
Infographic showing various X Ray Fluorescence job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,734 per year, or $41.7 per hour.

Physicist/Scientist-X-Ray Fluorescence III (E3)

Applied Materials

Benicia, CA • On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Applied Materials rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description

Who We Are
Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips - the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that literally connect our world - like AI and IoT. If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world.
What We Offer
Salary:
$120,000.00 - $165,000.00
Location:
Benicia,CA
You'll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible-while learning every day in a supportive leading global company. Visit our Careers website to learn more.
At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We're committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go. Learn more about our benefits.
Key Responsibilities
Job Description - Physicist / Inspection Systems Development-X-Ray Fluorescence
We are seeking a highly motivated physicist to join our advanced inspection and metrology systems development team. In this role, you will contribute to the definition, design, and validation of next-generation technologies that support innovative products.
Key Responsibilities
  • Define and develop novel inspection system concepts, architectures, and configurations.
  • Design and execute statistically sound experiments; collect, analyze, and interpret data to support development decisions.
  • Engineer, design, and qualify modules and sub-modules for advanced inspection systems.
  • Develop new or enhanced inspection and metrology solutions for emerging substrate technologies and applications.
  • Conduct research and analysis in physics or related disciplines to support product innovation.
  • Define system requirements and specifications, and troubleshoot complex system-level issues.
  • Provide expert support for physics-related application and system challenges both in the lab and in the field.
  • Lead or contribute to project planning, including the evaluation and integration of new concepts and approaches into product development.
  • Support product risk management processes by delivering data-driven insights and recommendations.
  • Participate in vendor selection and collaborate with external partners.
  • Engage with customers on technological topics and provide subject-matter expertise in your domain.
  • Mentor and guide junior physicists and scientists.
  • Evaluate emerging technologies, market trends, and competitor capabilities to identify new opportunities.
  • Plan and conduct feasibility studies for new technologies, systems, and sub-systems, delivering clear analysis to guide decision-making.
  • Demonstrate new capabilities and perform performance analysis to validate solutions.
Qualifications
  • Advanced degree (PhD or MSc) in Physics or a related field.
  • Strong analytical and experimental skills, including statistical data analysis.
  • Experience in system design, metrology, or inspection technologies is an advantage.
  • Ability to solve complex technical problems and work across multidisciplinary teams.
  • Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate with internal teams, customers, and external partners.

Functional Knowledge
  • Demonstrates conceptual and practical expertise in own discipline and basic knowledge of related disciplines

Business Expertise
  • Has knowledge of best practices and how own area integrates with others; is aware of the competition and the factors that differentiate them in the market

Leadership
  • Acts as a resource for colleagues with less experience; may lead small projects with manageable risks and resource requirements

Problem Solving
  • Solves complex problems; takes a new perspective on existing solutions; exercises judgment based on the analysis of multiple sources of information

Impact
  • Impacts a range of customer, operational, project or service activities within own team and other related teams; works within broad guidelines and policies

Interpersonal Skills
  • Explains difficult or sensitive information; works to build consensus

Additional Information
Time Type:
Full time
Employee Type:
Assignee / Regular
Travel:
Not Specified
Relocation Eligible:
Yes
The salary offered to a selected candidate will be based on multiple factors including location, hire grade, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and with consideration of internal equity of our current team members. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable.
For all sales roles, the posted salary range is the Target Total Cash (TTC) range for the role, which is the sum of base salary and target bonus amount at 100% goal achievement.
Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.
In addition, Applied endeavors to make our careers site accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact us via e-mail at Accommodations_Program@amat.com, or by calling our HR Direct Help Line at 877-612-7547, option 1, and following the prompts to speak to an HR Advisor. This contact is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.

What Applied Materials employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Applied Materials logo

About Applied Materials

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Applied Materials is the global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We're the brain (and the brawn) behind every new technology development--whether it's building semiconductor chips for smartphones and computers, or the underpinnings for robotics, AI and even smart TV display screens. With 27,000 employees in 19 countries, we offer an exciting place to grow and learn alongside some of the best people you'll ever meet. We take deep pride in our Culture of Inclusion, and we celebrate the diverse backgrounds, perspectives and experiences that help us build stronger, more resilient teams. Join us as we innovate to Make Possible a Better Future!

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1967