Future Tech Jobs Future Tech Jobs

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
0
Browse latest jobs → 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.
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 1 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

Semiconductor Processing
100%
Photolithography
100%
Etching
100%
Deposition
100%
Wafer Cleaning
100%
Process Characterisation
100%
Statistical Analysis
100%
Cleanroom Environment
100%
Problem Solving
100%
Documentation
100%
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.

No Semiconductor Process Engineer Jobs jobs right now

We don't have any matching roles at the moment, but new jobs are added daily.

Latest jobs

Cambridge GaN Devices logo

Senior Power Device Engineer

The Senior Power Device Engineer will lead research and innovation projects for GaN-based power devices and ICs, working closely with a multidisciplinary team. Responsibilities include feasibility studies, hands-on simulations, and managing technology requirements to drive the development of energy-efficient power solutions.

Cambridge GaN Devices Cambridge, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent
Oxford Ionics logo

Staff FPGA Engineer

As a Staff FPGA Engineer, you will design and develop FPGA features for quantum control systems, working on RTL modules, real-time control logic, and high-speed signal processing. You will collaborate with a highly technical team to deliver best-in-class control systems for advanced quantum computing.

Oxford Ionics Oxford, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent
ECM Selection logo

Consultant Electronics Engineer

This role involves developing diverse, groundbreaking electronics technologies, from proof of concept to prototyping. You'll work on systems combining advanced sensors, imaging, EM, acoustics, and AI, with applications in edge computing and special projects. The team is small, multi-disciplinary, and fast-paced, offering frequent new challenges and the opportunity to see projects through to completion quickly.

ECM Selection Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom £80,000 pa
On-site Permanent Clearance Required
Langham Recruitment logo

Electronics Engineer

This role involves designing and developing advanced electronics for optical payloads in space missions, from concept to launch. You will work closely with experts across the Optical Department and satellite mission teams, contributing to cutting-edge space technologies and managing technical budgets and timelines.

Langham Recruitment Guildford, Surrey, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent
Fractile logo

Board Test Engineer

This role involves designing, implementing, and supporting production-ready board/PCBA test solutions for high-volume boards with AI accelerators, high-current power delivery, and PCIe Gen6 interconnect. You will work closely with hardware, firmware, and manufacturing teams to ensure robust and repeatable tests, debug failures, and improve test coverage.

Fractile Bristol, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent Clearance Required
Fractile logo

Hardware System Test Engineer

This role involves developing and maintaining system-level hardware defect detection tests for AI accelerator servers. You will implement tests to identify hardware defects, develop service diagnostics, and collaborate with hardware, software, and manufacturing teams to ensure robust and repeatable test implementations.

Fractile Bristol, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent
Browse all jobs →
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.

Hiring semiconductor process engineers?

Post your role in 90 seconds and reach the specialist audience that already reads this page.

Post a job → See pricing

🍪 Basic, anonymous analytics (aggregate counts only, never shared) are always on. Accept to also enable third-party tools — Google Analytics, Microsoft Clarity, Mixpanel, Leadfeeder — which help us match you with relevant Semiconductor roles. We never sell your data or use it for cross-site advertising. See our Cookie Policy.