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Cmp Process Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Cmp Process Engineer information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$90.8K

$140.6K

How much do cmp process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for cmp process engineer in California is $90,813.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $101,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are CMP Process Engineers?

CMP Process Engineers are professionals who specialize in the Chemical Mechanical Planarization (CMP) process used in semiconductor manufacturing. Their main responsibilities include developing, optimizing, and troubleshooting CMP processes to achieve desired wafer surface quality and uniformity. They work with cross-functional teams to improve yield, reduce defects, and ensure equipment operates efficiently. CMP Process Engineers also analyze data, implement process controls, and may support equipment installation and maintenance. Their expertise is crucial for producing integrated circuits with precise layer thickness and planarity.

What are some common challenges faced by CMP Process Engineers in semiconductor manufacturing, and how can they be addressed?

CMP Process Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining uniformity across wafers, minimizing defect rates, and optimizing process parameters for new materials or device architectures. Addressing these issues typically involves close collaboration with equipment engineers, process integration teams, and quality control specialists to fine-tune slurry chemistry, pad conditioning, and process recipes. Proactive troubleshooting, thorough data analysis, and staying updated with the latest industry advancements can help CMP Process Engineers continuously improve yield and device performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CMP Process Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a CMP Process Engineer, you need a strong background in chemical engineering, materials science, or a related field, often with a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with process control systems, statistical analysis software, and semiconductor fabrication tools like metrology equipment is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you address process challenges and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure efficient yield improvement, process optimization, and successful integration of CMP technology in semiconductor manufacturing.

What is the difference between Cmp Process Engineer vs Semiconductor Process Engineer?

AspectCmp Process EngineerSemiconductor Process Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Chemical, Materials, or Electrical Engineering; relevant certificationsBachelor's in Electrical, Chemical, or Materials Engineering; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentCleanroom, manufacturing plant, R&D labsCleanroom, fabrication facilities, R&D labs
Industry UsageSemiconductor manufacturing, integrated circuit fabricationSemiconductor industry, chip manufacturing, wafer processing
Job FocusChemical-mechanical planarization (CMP) processes, polishing techniquesOverall semiconductor fabrication processes, including CMP

The Cmp Process Engineer specializes in chemical-mechanical planarization techniques used in semiconductor manufacturing, focusing on polishing and surface finishing. In contrast, the Semiconductor Process Engineer oversees broader fabrication processes, including CMP, etching, and deposition. Both roles require similar technical skills and work environments, but their specific focus areas differ within the semiconductor industry.

What are popular job titles related to Cmp Process Engineer jobs in California? For Cmp Process Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cmp Process Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Cmp Process Engineer jobs in California are:
Cmp Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cmp Process Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 3% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 16% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,813 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

Sr. CMP Process Development Engineer (50076)

TDK Headway Technologies Inc.

Milpitas, CA • On-site

$95K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

TITLE: CMP PROCESS DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER
FLSA STATUS: EXEMPT
REPORTS TO: SR. MANAGER, CMP PROCESS DEVELOPMENT
SUMMARY:
Under the direction of the Sr. Manager of CMP Process Development, the CMP Process Development Engineer is responsible for developing and delivering strategies for improving and optimizing wafer CMP and post-CMP cleaning processes and procedures; designing and conducting routine wafer experiments, analyzing the data, and reporting the results; developing and implementing practices or methodologies which reduce cost and improve operational efficiency; conducting root cause analysis and implementing corrective action; developing and implementing procedures for transitioning new products into the production line; and reviewing, updating, and maintaining documentation and process instructions. This position is located in Milpitas, California.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Develops and delivers strategies for improving and optimizing wafer CMP and post-CMP cleaning processes and procedures
  • Develops and implements practices or methodologies which reduce cost and improve operational efficiency
  • Conducts root cause analysis and implements corrective action if required
  • Develops and implements processes or procedures for transitioning new products into the production line
  • Resolves process or metrology issues related to material selection; recommends corrective action
  • Reviews, updates, and maintains documentation and process instructions
  • Instructs operators and technicians on processes and procedures, including modifications to existing procedures
  • Partners with equipment and maintenance personnel in order to minimize tool down time and integrate new tools into the production line
  • Designs and conducts routine experiments, analyzes data, and develops recommendations for improving the performance or reducing cost based on test results
  • Partners with other groups and departments, including process and product engineering to develop and implement new processes which reduce scrap and improve yield
  • Responds to inquiries from other team members, managers, or departments
  • Adheres to all safety policies and procedures as required
  • Performs other duties of a similar nature or level*

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Master's degree in Chemical or Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or Physics, and/or equivalent relevant experience; PhD degree preferred.
  • Five years of experience with a Master's degree or two years of experience with a PhD working in the magnetic recording head, hard disk drive, or semiconductor industry in a CMP or process engineering role.
  • Solid understanding of semiconductor processing, material science, and chemical-mechanical interactions.
  • Experience with design of experiment techniques (DOE), SPC, defect analysis, and data analysis.
  • Experience with CMP equipment (e.g., Applied Materials, Ebara), metrology tools, and data analysis software (e.g., JMP, SQL).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Knowledge of CMP manufacturing processes, practices, and techniques
  • Knowledge of wafer fabrication processing techniques and tools
  • Knowledge of various metrology and optical inspection tools and techniques
  • Knowledge and ability to use Microsoft Office applications to create spreadsheets, Word documents, and presentations
  • Able to design experiments, analyze results, and recommend corrective action in order to reduce scrap and improve yield
  • Able to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with all levels of contractors, consultants, employees, and management
  • Able to work productively and collaboratively with all levels of employees and management
  • Able to comply with all safety policies and procedures
  • Demonstrated organizational and time management skills
  • Demonstrated problem-solving and trouble shooting skills
  • Flexible and able to prioritize

The annual rate for this full-time position is between $95,000.00-$160,000.00 + bonus target + benefits. Within the range the individual pay may differ depending on additional factors including job responsibilities, job related knowledge, skills, abilities, education, and experience. The annual pay range shown is subject to change and may be modified periodically.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
The Sr. CMP Process Development Engineer works primarily in an office environment from Monday to Friday. The schedule may be altered from time-to-time to meet business or operational needs; may travel from site-to-site as needed. May also work in a class 100 ESD sensitive wafer fab manufacturing facility; adheres to required safety and dress standards. May be exposed to hazardous chemicals, fumes, or vapors and excessive noise from time-to-time while in the wafer manufacturing facility; stands and walks; performs various fine grasping movements, bends, and twists; operates a computer and enters information using a keyboard, operates a telephone, and other office equipment. May occasionally be required to push, pull, or lift 10 or more pounds.
Other duties of a similar nature or level are duties that may be required, but may not be specifically listed in the job description or posting.
TDK/Headway Technologies, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. Applicants requiring accommodation in order to complete the application process should contact the Headway Human Resources Department.

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