ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Xps Surface Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Micron

Intern - Corporate Labs

Boise, ID

$14.25 - $19/hr

Micron's Surface Science team plays a pivotal part in advancing semiconductor device development by ... Working knowledge of analytical instrumentation such as XPS, SIMS, APT, FIB, SEM, TEM, and ...

New

Micron Technology

Intern - Corporate Labs

Boise, ID · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Micron's Surface Science team plays a pivotal part in advancing semiconductor device development by ... Working knowledge of analytical instrumentation such as XPS, SIMS, APT, FIB, SEM, TEM, and ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsXps Surface Scientist Jobs

Xps Surface Scientist information

See salary details

$58.5K

$87.8K

$123.5K

How much do xps surface scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for xps surface scientist in the United States is $87,842.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an XPS surface scientist?

To thrive as an XPS Surface Scientist, you need a solid background in surface science, materials characterization, and chemistry or physics, typically supported by an advanced degree (MSc/PhD) in a relevant field. Expertise in operating and troubleshooting X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) instruments, data analysis software, and familiarity with related vacuum and analytical systems is crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication make someone stand out in this role. These competencies ensure accurate experimental results, effective collaboration, and advancement of research and development objectives.

What is the difference between Xps Surface Scientist vs Xps Materials Engineer?

AspectXps Surface ScientistXps Materials Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science, Chemistry, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Materials Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, quality control labsManufacturing plants, R&D labs, production facilities
Industry UsageResearch and development, quality assurance, product testingProduct development, process optimization, materials design

While both roles focus on XPS (X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy) and materials, the Xps Surface Scientist primarily conducts research and analysis related to surface properties, whereas the Xps Materials Engineer applies this knowledge to develop and improve materials in manufacturing settings. Their skills often overlap, but their main responsibilities differ based on research versus application.

What are some common challenges faced by XPS surface scientists when interpreting data, and how can these be addressed in a typical lab setting?

XPS Surface Scientists often encounter challenges such as distinguishing between overlapping peaks, dealing with surface contamination, and interpreting complex spectra due to mixed chemical states. Addressing these issues typically involves using advanced data analysis software, collaborating closely with colleagues in materials science or chemistry, and maintaining strict sample preparation protocols. Regular team meetings and cross-training with experts from related disciplines can also help in troubleshooting and ensuring accurate surface characterization.

What is an XPS surface scientist?

An XPS Surface Scientist is a specialist who uses X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) to analyze and characterize the chemical composition, electronic state, and structure of surfaces and thin films. Their work is crucial in materials science, chemistry, and nanotechnology, helping to understand and engineer material surfaces for various applications. XPS Surface Scientists often work in research labs, academia, or industry, performing experiments, interpreting spectra, and preparing reports or publications based on their findings.
More about Xps Surface Scientist jobs

What cities are hiring for Xps Surface Scientist jobs?

Cities with the most Xps Surface Scientist job openings:

What states have the most Xps Surface Scientist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Xps Surface Scientist jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Xps Surface Scientist jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Xps Surface Scientist jobs are:

Xps Surface Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Xps Surface Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,842 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Surface Science & Microscopy Scientist

ExxonMobil

Spring, TX

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 26 days ago

ExxonMobil rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 229 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 86 rated oil and gas companies

Job description

About us

At ExxonMobil, our vision is to lead in energy innovations that advance modern living and a net-zero future. As one of the world’s largest publicly traded energy and chemical companies, we are powered by a unique and diverse workforce fueled by the pride in what we do and what we stand for.

The success of our Upstream, Product Solutions and Low Carbon Solutions businesses is the result of the talent, curiosity and drive of our people. They bring solutions every day to optimize our strategy in energy, chemicals, lubricants and lower-emissions technologies. 

We invite you to bring your ideas to ExxonMobil to help create sustainable solutions that improve quality of life and meet society’s evolving needs. Learn more about our What and our Why and how we can work together.

What role you will play in our team

This researcher will serve as a technical leader and champion for microanalysis and surface science within multi-disciplinary teams supporting R&D and business needs.  They will leverage their knowledge to develop and scout new methods, tools, and expertise, building long-term capabilities that help solve energy industry challenges.  

What you will do
  • Collaborate effectively with global multi-disciplinary teams to further R&D goals and support the business.
  • Provide leadership in areas related to microanalysis and surface science.
  • Apply characterization techniques and your expertise to develop composition/structure/process/property relationships.
  • Utilize and grow internal analytical capabilities, establish external partners, and leverage 3rd party labs to advance research objectives and meet program deliverables.
  • Establish and grow awareness of adjacent techniques, methods, and experts to guide research activities to the most effective solutions.
  • Provide support for established testing methods as a subject matter expert.
  • Remain current and engaged with the community in your area of expertise.
  • Communicate your results internally and externally to maintain/establish your expertise and visibility (including seminars, publications, patents, etc.).
About you

Minimum Skills and Qualifications:

  • Ph.D. (or equivalent experience) in Materials Science, Physics, or a related field, with a focus on microanalysis or surface science.
  • Hands-on expertise operating a number of microanalysis or surface science tools, such as XPS, ToF-SIMS, dynamic SIMS, SEM, EPMA, TEM, FIB, and AFM.
  • Ability to demonstrate fundamental understanding of electron/ion/x-ray interactions with materials and the hardware used for microanalysis and/or surface science.
  • Proficiency with image analysis, statistical analysis, and programming skills.

Preferred Qualifications: 

  • Prior exposure to industrial R&D, manufacturing support, or product qualification
  • Experience maintaining and troubleshooting complex instruments.
  • Track record of presentations, publications, and/or patents.
  • Ability to integrate microanalysis or surface science with complementary characterization methods (e.g., optical spectroscopy, x-ray scattering, thermal analysis).
  • Experience working with carbon and hydrocarbon-based materials.
Your benefits

An ExxonMobil career is one designed to last. Our commitment to you runs deep: our employees grow personally and professionally, with benefits built on our core categories of health, security, finance, and life.

We offer you: 

  • Pension Plan: Enrollment is automatic and at no cost to you. The basic benefit is a monthly annuity to be paid to you in retirement for the rest of your life. 

  • Savings Plan: You can contribute between 6% and 20% of your pay and are encouraged to enroll right away. If you contribute at least 6% to your savings plan, the Company will contribute a 7% match. 

  • Workplace Flexibility: We have several programs such as “Flex your Day”, providing ad-hoc flexibility around when and where you work, as well as longer-term programs such as leaves of absence and part-time work.

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans. 

  • Culture of Health: Programs and resources to support your wellbeing. 

  • Employee Health Advisory Program: Provides confidential professional counseling for you and your family, including tools and resources promoting mental health and resiliency at no additional cost to you. 

  • Disability Plan: Income replacement for when you cannot work due to illness or injury occurring on or off the job. Enrollment is automatic and at no cost to you.

  • More information on our Company’s benefits can be found at www.exxonmobilfamily.com

  • Please note benefits may be changed from time to time without notice, subject to applicable law.

Stay connected with us

Learn more at our Website
Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram
Like us on Facebook
Subscribe our channel at Youtube

ExxonMobil is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, protected veteran status, genetic information, or physical or mental disability.

Alternate Location:  

Nothing herein is intended to override the corporate separateness of local entities. Working relationships discussed herein do not necessarily represent a reporting connection, but may reflect a functional guidance, stewardship, or service relationship. 

Exxon Mobil Corporation has numerous affiliates, many with names that include ExxonMobil, Exxon, Esso and Mobil. For convenience and simplicity, those terms and terms like corporation, company, our, we and its are sometimes used as abbreviated references to specific affiliates or affiliate groups. Abbreviated references describing global or regional operational organizations and global or regional business lines are also sometimes used for convenience and simplicity. Similarly, ExxonMobil has business relationships with thousands of customers, suppliers, governments, and others. For convenience and simplicity, words like venture, joint venture, partnership, co-venturer, and partner are used to indicate business relationships involving common activities and interests, and those words may not indicate precise legal relationships.

What ExxonMobil employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply