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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
20
Salary range
£33k – £75k
Hiring companies
17
View 20 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

£33k – £75k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 83 UK listings priced in pounds in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

Salary visibility
5% of listings advertise a salary — up from 0% the year before.
By seniority
£k base
Entry
30
45
6 jobs
Mid
30
55
21 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

20 live roles

See all 20 roles →

Manufacturing Process Engineer

This role involves designing, implementing, and optimizing manufacturing processes and facilities for advanced product assembly. Responsibilities include developing assembly and test operations, designing and validating jigs and fixtures, integrating automation systems, and ensuring quality and performance targets are met. The position requires collaboration with multidisciplinary teams in a fast-paced engineering environment.

EVera Recruitment Brackley, Northamptonshire, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent

Graduate Process Engineer (Semicon)

This role involves hands-on work in a cleanroom environment developing semiconductor-based quantum technologies. You'll be involved in key fabrication processes including sputtering, photolithography, etching, and wafer dicing, alongside inspection and characterisation. The position supports product development within strict production schedules and requires strong technical skills in semiconductor processing.

Advanced Technical Recruitment Southampton, Hampshire, United Kingdom £30,000 – £35,000 pa

Senior Process Engineer

Are you a proven Senior Process Engineer with extensive experience supporting projects on nuclear or highly regulated sites, looking to demonstrate your expertise in a challenging and rewarding environment?Do you possess an expert level of knowledge in chemical engineering, with...

Millbank Risley, Warrington, Cheshire, United Kingdom

Laser Process Engineer

Position: Laser Process EngineerLocation: Oxford, UKA high-tech manufacturing company specialising in precision laser systems is seeking a Laser Process Engineer to join their expanding research and development team. This is an exciting opportunity to work on advanced materials processing technologies...

CV-Library Oxford, Oxfordshire

Manufacturing Methods - Production - Process Engineer

Job Title: Manufacturing Methods - Production - Process EngineerLocation: DerbyHours: Monday to Friday days 37hrs per week on siteDuration: 12 month plus contractRate: up to £50k equiv.Benefits: 33 days paid holiday (inc 8 B/ Hols), pension options, 2 week notice...

Shorterm Group Derby, Derbyshire, DE1 3AE, United Kingdom
See all 20 roles →
Hiring locations

Where this role is hiring

The locations with the most live listings for this role today.

Edinburgh

Location
1 open

Southampton

Location
1 open

Oxford

Location
1 open
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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