Material Scientist, TEM and Microanalysis

HRL Laboratories

Malibu, United States

October 29, 2025

Apply Now

Material Scientist, TEM and Microanalysis

Malibu, CA
Science & Engineering - Sensors & Electronics Laboratory – Sensors & Electronics /
Regular /
On-site

Essential Duties:
The ideal candidate is able to lead and drive creative focused R&D efforts involving design, fabrication, and characterization of nano-scale quantum-effect semiconductor devices.
As a member of an interdisciplinary team, investigate devices with (S)TEM and related analytical electron microscopy techniques, develop and refine microscopy characterization methods and advance the state of the art.
Use advanced characterization methods to identify failure modes of novel semiconductor devices and inform process development efforts while providing feedback to team members.
Work closely with senior technical staff to support materials characterization, process development, and failure analysis efforts. Work closely with and mentor junior technical staff on best practices for microscopy, process development, and failure analysis. Present ideas and results in effective technical presentations and reports, write technical papers and contribute to research proposals.

Required Skills:
3+ years of experience with microscopy techniques such as High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM), High-Angle Annular Dark-Field Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (HAADF-STEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS), and Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy (EELS) is desired.
Experience with TEM tomography, strain mapping, and focused ion beam lamella preparation is a plus.
Experience in semiconductor process development and failure analysis of semiconductor devices is a plus. 
A history of productive research as evident in publications, patents or presentations is a plus. Industry experience is a plus. Experience with data handling software such as excel, JMP, python, or IGOR is desired.

Required Education:
Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related fields. 

Special Requirements:
US Citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a US Government Security Clearance

Compensation:
The base salary range for this full-time position is $132,765 - $165,983 + bonus + benefits.
Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range during the hiring process. Please note that the compensation details listed reflect the base salary only, and do not include potential bonus or benefits.

We are proud to be an EEO/AA employer M/F/D/V. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing. 
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
Apply Now