Staff Scientist

Are you excited by the challenge of turning complex surface analysis data into clear answers that help customers solve real-world materials problems?

Do you enjoy working hands-on with advanced XPS, AES, and SIMS instrumentation while helping shape the next generation of analytical technology?

Do you thrive in customer-facing roles where strong communication skills help translate complex analytical data into clear, practical solutions?

Physical Electronics USA Inc. (PHI), a subsidiary of ULVAC-PHI, is a leading supplier of ultra-high-vacuum surface-analysis instrumentation. Our XPS, AES, and SIMS technologies support a broad range of high-technology applications and help customers solve complex materials challenges.

PHI is seeking a dynamic and technically skilled Staff Scientist with experience in surface spectroscopies to join our Analytical Laboratory team. In this role, the Staff Scientist will provide technical expertise across the company by performing instrument demonstrations, leading training sessions, developing marketing materials, testing current instrument software and hardware, providing feedback for next-generation instrumentation, and delivering solutions to product challenges. PHI’s surface-analysis instrument portfolio includes X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Auger Electron Spectroscopy (AES), and Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS).

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide expertise in the operation and application of surface-analysis instrumentation.
• Perform instrument demonstrations, including developing appropriate analytical strategies.
• Analyze and interpret results.
• Prepare demonstration reports that clearly communicate analytical results and the strengths of PHI instrumentation to customers.
• Ensure instrumentation is operating to specification for demonstrations.
• Provide on-site instrument training at customer locations and tailor training materials to customer needs.
• Develop marketing materials for the surface-analysis product line.
• Support cross-functional activities, including software testing, preparation of sales tender documents, and corrective-action initiatives.
• Participate in new-product planning as both an expert user and a representative of the customer’s voice.
• Represent PHI by attending and presenting at scientific conferences.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry, Physics, or Materials Science, or a master’s degree with three or more years of relevant experience.
• Hands-on experience with X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) instrumentation.
• Knowledge and use of other materials-characterization techniques, such as AES and/or SIMS, is a plus.
• Strong presentation and communication skills.
• Ability to work comfortably both independently and as part of a cross-functional team.

Compensation and Application

The salary range for this position is $100,000–$120,000, depending on experience. We are open to candidates with varying levels of relevant experience who bring the right combination of technical expertise, sound judgment, and enthusiasm to the role.

Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply by submitting a résumé and cover letter describing their relevant experience.

Physical Electronics USA Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.