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Semiconductor Process Engineer Jobs

Engineers who design and optimise the manufacturing processes for semiconductor chips. A critical role in ensuring the reliability and performance of modern electronics.

Open roles
6
Salary range
£32k – £75k
Hiring companies
3
View 6 live roles → Get an alert

Semiconductor Process Engineers play a vital role in the semiconductor industry, focusing on the design, development, and optimisation of manufacturing processes for semiconductor chips. These engineers work at the intersection of materials science, chemistry, and engineering to ensure that the fabrication of semiconductor devices is efficient, reliable, and cost-effective. They are employed by a range of organisations, from large semiconductor manufacturers to research-heavy startups and scaleups, all of which rely on their expertise to push the boundaries of chip technology.

What the role does

Inside the role of a Semiconductor Process Engineer

A typical week for a Semiconductor Process Engineer is split between lab work, data analysis, and collaboration with cross-functional teams.

  1. 01
    Conduct experiments to test new process parameters.
  2. 02
    Analyse data from process runs to identify trends and issues.
  3. 03
    Collaborate with design and manufacturing teams to resolve process challenges.
  4. 04
    Document findings and prepare reports for management.
  5. 05
    Attend meetings to discuss project progress and next steps.
Salary on the board

£32k – £75k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 82 UK listings priced in pounds in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

Salary visibility
6% of listings advertise a salary — up from 0% the year before.
By seniority
£k base
Entry
30
45
6 jobs
Mid
31
55
22 jobs
Senior
50
75
11 jobs
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 44 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

Process Engineering
41%
Continuous Improvement
27%
Problem Solving
20%
Project Management
20%
Root Cause Analysis
16%
Manufacturing
16%
Lean Manufacturing
16%
Process Validation
14%
Chemical Engineering
14%
Process Improvement
14%
Data Analysis
14%
Process Optimisation
14%
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

A typical UK progression for semiconductor process engineers. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.

  1. Level 1

    Junior Semiconductor Process Engineer

    0–2 yrs

    Assist in the execution of process development tasks and data collection under supervision.

  2. Level 2

    Semiconductor Process Engineer

    2–5 yrs

    Lead specific process development projects and contribute to the optimisation of existing processes.

  3. Level 3

    Senior Semiconductor Process Engineer

    5–10 yrs

    Manage multiple process development projects and mentor junior engineers.

  4. Level 4

    Principal Semiconductor Process Engineer

    10+ yrs

    Oversee the entire process engineering function, drive strategic initiatives, and lead cross-functional teams.

Pathway

How to become a Semiconductor Process Engineer

There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.

  1. 1

    Entry-Level Engineer

    Start with hands-on lab work and data collection, learning the fundamentals of semiconductor processes.

  2. 2

    Specialised Skills

    Develop expertise in specific areas such as etching, deposition, or lithography through focused projects.

  3. 3

    Project Leadership

    Take on leadership roles in process development projects, managing timelines and resources.

  4. 4

    Cross-Functional Collaboration

    Work closely with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure process integration and optimisation.

  5. 5

    Strategic Initiatives

    Contribute to long-term strategic planning and innovation in process engineering.

  6. 6

    Executive Role

    Advance to executive positions, overseeing the entire process engineering function and driving company-wide initiatives.

Live jobs

6 live roles

Process Engineer

The Process Engineer will support the development and improvement of manufacturing processes, particularly for parylene coating applications. Responsibilities include technical problem-solving, project work, and customer interaction, with a focus on process improvement and documentation.

Talent Smart Sheerwater, Surrey, GU21 5PJ, United Kingdom £45,000 – £50,000 pa

Process Engineering Technician (x2)

This role involves providing critical support to production lines by conducting process checks, resolving issues, and improving process stability and quality. You will work closely with the Process Engineering team to diagnose and correct process failures, maintain high up-time, and train operators and technicians.

Pragmatic Semiconductor Durham, DH7 8RJ, United Kingdom

Principal Process Engineer - Metal-Oxide PVD

This role involves leading the development, qualification, and sustaining of metal-oxide PVD processes for semiconductor manufacturing. You will manage a small team, drive process improvements, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure high-quality film stacks and equipment performance.

Pragmatic Semiconductor Durham, DH7 8RJ, United Kingdom

Shift Process Engineers x 3

The Shift Process Engineer role involves providing first-line process engineering support in a 24/7 semiconductor manufacturing operation. Responsibilities include troubleshooting process issues, managing tool requalification, and coordinating with various teams to maintain production flow and quality.

CBSbutler Holdings Limited trading as CBSbutler Northampton, Northamptonshire, United Kingdom £50,000 – £60,000 pa

Senior Process Development Engineer (Back End)

This role involves leading the development and qualification of advanced semiconductor assembly processes, focusing on die singulation, laser processing, and wafer on frame debonding. The Senior Process Development Engineer will design and execute experiments, develop process specifications, and drive new product introductions while mentoring and training team members.

Pragmatic Semiconductor Durham, DH7 8RJ, United Kingdom

Lead Process Sustaining Engineer (Back End)

This role involves providing technical leadership and engineering support for high-volume manufacturing processes in the Back End/Assembly team. Responsibilities include sustaining and improving manufacturing processes, resolving complex issues, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure product quality and operational efficiency.

Pragmatic Semiconductor Durham, DH7 8RJ, United Kingdom
FAQs

Common questions

  • A degree in materials science, chemical engineering, or a related field is typically required. Relevant industry experience and a strong understanding of semiconductor processes are also important.

  • Key skills include problem-solving, data analysis, project management, and a deep understanding of semiconductor materials and processes.

  • The work environment is a mix of laboratory settings, clean rooms, and office spaces, with a focus on hands-on experimentation and data analysis.

  • Career progression typically involves moving from hands-on technical roles to project leadership and strategic management positions within the organisation.

  • Salaries vary based on experience and location. For more detailed salary information, please refer to the salary section on this page.

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