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Chemical Mechanical Planarization Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Must be a technical expert with 10+ years' experience in Chemical Mechanical Planarization (CMP) Process with a strong Wafer Fab background. * Must have data analytics background for performing ...

Chemical Mechanical Planarization * CVD : Chemical Vapor Deposition * PVD : Physical Vapor Deposition * EPI : Epitaxy * DIF : Diffusion * WET : Wet Clean * ME : Metrology * Etch : Wet Etch and Dry ...

Chemical Mechanical Planarization * CVD : Chemical Vapor Deposition * PVD : Physical Vapor Deposition * EPI : Epitaxy * DIF : Diffusion * WET : Wet Clean * ME : Metrology * Etch : Wet Etch and Dry ...

Chemical Mechanical Planarization * CVD : Chemical Vapor Deposition * PVD : Physical Vapor Deposition * EPI : Epitaxy * DIF : Diffusion * WET : Wet Clean * ME : Metrology * Etch : Wet Etch and Dry ...

Chemical Mechanical Planarization * CVD : Chemical Vapor Deposition * PVD : Physical Vapor Deposition * EPI : Epitaxy * DIF : Diffusion * WET : Wet Clean * ME : Metrology * Etch : Wet Etch and Dry ...

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Chemical Mechanical Planarization information

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How much do chemical mechanical planarization jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical mechanical planarization in the United States is $18.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is chemical mechanical planarization (CMP)?

Chemical Mechanical Planarization (CMP) is a process used in semiconductor manufacturing to smooth and flatten the surfaces of wafers. It combines both chemical and mechanical techniques to remove excess material and achieve a perfectly even surface, which is critical for building the multiple layers of modern microchips. CMP helps ensure that subsequent layers are properly aligned, improving device performance and yield. The process is essential in the production of integrated circuits and other advanced electronic components.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chemical mechanical planarization (CMP) engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a CMP Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical engineering, materials science, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with CMP equipment, process control systems, and semiconductor manufacturing software is essential, as is experience with data analysis tools. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills help you optimize processes and address yield or quality issues. These competencies are vital for ensuring precise wafer planarization, minimizing defects, and maintaining high production standards in semiconductor fabrication.

What are the typical challenges faced by engineers working in chemical mechanical planarization (CMP) processes within semiconductor manufacturing?

Engineers working in CMP often face challenges such as maintaining wafer uniformity, minimizing defects like scratches and dishing, and optimizing slurry chemistry for different materials. The role requires close collaboration with process integration teams and equipment vendors to troubleshoot issues and implement process improvements. Staying current with new materials and process technologies is crucial, and success often depends on strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail in a fast-paced, cleanroom environment.

What is the difference between Chemical Mechanical Planarization vs Semiconductor Process Technician?

AspectChemical Mechanical PlanarizationSemiconductor Process Technician
CredentialsTechnical certifications, associate degree in engineering or related fieldTechnical certifications, associate or bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentCleanroom, manufacturing floor, specialized equipmentCleanroom, manufacturing floor, equipment operation and monitoring
Industry UsageSemiconductor fabrication, wafer processingSemiconductor manufacturing, process monitoring
Job FocusMaterial removal, surface planarization, process controlProcess execution, equipment setup, quality checks

While both roles operate within semiconductor manufacturing environments, Chemical Mechanical Planarization specialists focus on the precise removal and smoothing of wafer surfaces using specialized equipment, whereas Semiconductor Process Technicians oversee broader process operations, including equipment setup and quality assurance. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify career paths and job expectations in semiconductor fabrication.

More about Chemical Mechanical Planarization jobs
What cities are hiring for Chemical Mechanical Planarization jobs? Cities with the most Chemical Mechanical Planarization job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Chemical Mechanical Planarization jobs? The most popular types of Chemical Mechanical Planarization jobs are:
What states have the most Chemical Mechanical Planarization jobs? States with the most job openings for Chemical Mechanical Planarization jobs include:
Infographic showing various Chemical Mechanical Planarization job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,952 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

CMP Module Process Engineer IV - (E4)

Amat

Boise, ID

$116K - $159K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Who We Are

Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips - the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that literally connect our world - like AI and IoT. If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world.

What We Offer

Salary:

$116,000.00 - $159,500.00

Location:

Boise,ID, Hillsboro,OR

You'll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible-while learning every day in a supportive leading global company. Visit our Careers website to learn more.

At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We're committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go. Learn more about our benefits.

Role Responsibilities

  • Must be a technical expert with 10+ years' experience in Chemical Mechanical Planarization (CMP) Process with a strong Wafer Fab background.

  • Must have data analytics background for performing analysis to identify, troubleshoot, and solve complex CMP Process, Yield, and Integration related problems.

  • Lead discussions with customers to understand their High Value Problems (HVP), propose and implement new Continuous Improvement Projects (CIP), capture learning to maximize service opportunities and implement the solutions to improve customer KPI's

  • Increases CSA value through defect / variability / COO reduction and PM /process Cpk / matching / Output optimization.

  • Identifies opportunities for CSA renewal /upsell /penetration

  • Demonstrates & drives the adoption of new service technologies including FabVantage Offerings at the customer site through Demos, on site evaluations and Joint Development Programs

  • Resolves complex tool issues utilizing analytics, equipment, and process knowledge and systematic FabVantage troubleshooting methodologies for effective root cause diagnostics and issues resolution. Can Issue the report and present to customer which including explain the priority and provide the suggestion based on the compare BOM, EC, FSS data and FV360 for two products.

  • Mentor/Lead junior level MPE's

  • Advanced integration knowledge

  • Domain knowledge of 3 or more types of CMP processes and familiarity with Applied equipment.

  • Lead and contribute to CMP network of experts and Community of Practice

Qualifications:

  • BS - Engineering

  • 10+ years of experience in Chemical Mechanical Planarization (CMP) Process

  • Wafer Fab Process / Equipment experience

  • Communicates complex ideas, anticipates potential objections, and persuades others, often at senior levels, to adopt a different point of view

  • Regarded as the technical expert in CMP Unit Process and Wafer Fab operations

Additional Information

Time Type:

Full time

Employee Type:

Assignee / Regular

Travel:

Yes, 25% of the Time

Relocation Eligible:

Yes

The salary offered to a selected candidate will be based on multiple factors including location, hire grade, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and with consideration of internal equity of our current team members. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable.

For all sales roles, the posted salary range is the Target Total Cash (TTC) range for the role, which is the sum of base salary and target bonus amount at 100% goal achievement.

Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.

In addition, Applied endeavors to make our careers site accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact us via e-mail at Accommodations_Program@amat.com, or by calling our HR Direct Help Line at 877-612-7547, option 1, and following the prompts to speak to an HR Advisor. This contact is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.