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Compound Semiconductor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead deep understanding of degradation physics specific to III-V (InP) compound semiconductor photonic devices * Identify, model, and mitigate dominant wear-out mechanisms in lasers and optical ...

MS or BS in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science or a related discipline * 4+ years of hands-on experience with compound semiconductor device fabrication * Significant experience with ...

MS or BS in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science or a related discipline * 4+ years of hands-on experience with compound semiconductor device fabrication * Significant experience with ...

2-2-3 : 12 hour shift Our Story IQE is the leading supplier of compound semiconductor wafer products and advanced material solutions to the global semiconductor industry. IQE is essential to ...

Assembly Technician

Sugar Land, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Associate degree in engineering or related; previous experience in semiconductor wafer processing preferred; ability to use computer, microscope, tweezers, or other tools to handle delicate compound ...

Assembly Technician

Stafford, TX

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Associate degree in engineering or related; previous experience in semiconductor wafer processing preferred; ability to use computer, microscope, tweezers, or other tools to handle delicate compound ...

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Compound Semiconductor information

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How much do compound semiconductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for compound semiconductor in the United States is $23.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $26.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are compound semiconductors?

Compound semiconductors are materials made from two or more elements, typically from different groups in the periodic table, such as gallium arsenide (GaAs) or indium phosphide (InP). Unlike silicon, which is a single-element semiconductor, compound semiconductors offer unique electrical and optical properties that make them essential for high-speed electronics, optoelectronic devices, and advanced communication systems. They are widely used in applications like LEDs, laser diodes, solar cells, and 5G devices because of their high electron mobility and ability to operate at higher frequencies.

What are the typical collaborative dynamics between compound semiconductor engineers and other departments within a technology company?

Compound semiconductor engineers often work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including process engineers, device physicists, and manufacturing specialists. Collaboration is essential, especially during the design, prototyping, and testing phases, as these engineers must integrate their materials expertise with the requirements of electrical and systems engineers. Regular cross-functional meetings and project reviews are common, ensuring that specifications are met and potential issues are identified early. This collaborative environment not only helps deliver high-performance devices but also provides valuable exposure to different aspects of technology development, supporting career growth.

What is an example of a compound semiconductor?

A common example of a compound semiconductor is gallium arsenide (GaAs), which is widely used in high-speed electronics and optoelectronic devices. Compound semiconductors like GaAs are valued for their superior electron mobility and ability to emit light, making them essential in applications such as lasers, solar cells, and microwave frequency devices.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the field of compound semiconductors, executive roles such as Chief Technology Officer or Vice President of Engineering can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially in large corporations or specialized industries. High-level research scientists or senior engineers with extensive experience and advanced skills in areas like epitaxy, device fabrication, or materials science may also earn this level of compensation, often supplemented by bonuses and stock options.

Is it hard to get a job in semiconductors?

Getting a job as a compound semiconductor engineer or technician can be competitive, often requiring a strong background in materials science, electrical engineering, or physics. Relevant skills include knowledge of fabrication processes, cleanroom protocols, and proficiency with industry tools, with some positions favoring candidates with advanced degrees or certifications. Entry-level roles may be available, but higher-level positions typically demand experience and specialized expertise.

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

AspectCompound SemiconductorSemiconductor Process Engineer
Required CredentialsDegree in Electrical, Materials Engineering, or Physics; often specialized certificationsDegree in Electrical, Materials, or Chemical Engineering; process-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, fabrication facilities, high-tech manufacturingSemiconductor fabrication plants, R&D labs, production lines
Industry UsageOptoelectronics, RF devices, high-speed electronicsMicroprocessors, memory chips, integrated circuits
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Compound Semiconductor professionals focus on materials like GaAs and InP used in optoelectronics and RF applications, while Semiconductor Process Engineers work on manufacturing silicon-based chips. Both roles require similar technical backgrounds and often collaborate in high-tech manufacturing environments, but their specific focus areas differ based on the materials and devices involved.

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

To thrive as a Compound Semiconductor Engineer, you need a strong background in materials science, solid-state physics, and electrical engineering, usually supported by a relevant degree such as electrical engineering or applied physics. Familiarity with semiconductor fabrication tools, cleanroom procedures, and simulation software like TCAD is typically required, and certifications in cleanroom safety or semiconductor processing can be advantageous. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure precision in device fabrication, innovative development, and successful collaboration on complex semiconductor projects.

How much do semiconductor jobs pay?

Semiconductor jobs, including roles like compound semiconductor engineers or technicians, typically offer salaries ranging from $60,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while specialized or senior roles can exceed this range, especially in high-demand areas with advanced skills in fabrication, design, or testing.
More about Compound Semiconductor jobs
What cities are hiring for Compound Semiconductor jobs? Cities with the most Compound Semiconductor job openings:
Infographic showing various Compound Semiconductor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,394 per year, or $23.3 per hour.
Senior Product & Yield Device Engineer

Senior Product & Yield Device Engineer

Coherent

Sherman, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Primary Responsibilities

Product-Level Technical Ownership

            Own yield, variability, and device performance across all manufacturing stages for assigned products.

            Lead deep technical investigations into complex yield limiters involving epitaxy, wafer processing, device architecture, inspection, and test systems.

            Develop physics-based hypotheses and validate them through structured DOE, statistical modeling, and experimental execution.

            Drive yield recovery plans from problem identification through verified improvement.

            Serve as the central technical authority for product behavior across internal teams and external customers.

________________________________________

Epitaxy & Reactor Expertise

            Leverage strong understanding of compound semiconductor epitaxy and epi reactor fundamentals.

            Understand critical growth parameters including temperature uniformity, V/III ratio, precursor chemistry, chamber pressure, dopant incorporation, thickness control, strain management, and defect formation mechanisms.

            Correlate epitaxial variation to downstream optical and electrical device performance.

            Partner with Epitaxy Engineering to reduce wafer-to-wafer and run-to-run variability.

            Translate device-level failures into actionable feedback for reactor and process optimization.

________________________________________

Advanced Data Analytics & Modeling

            Perform deep dives into large-scale manufacturing datasets using SQL, JMP, Python, or equivalent tools.

            Develop multivariate statistical models to isolate root causes of yield loss.

            Apply regression analysis, variance decomposition, SPC, and DOE methodology.

            Build predictive models for early detection of yield excursions.

            Develop automated data analysis workflows to accelerate technical learning cycles.

            Translate raw data into defensible, physics-based conclusions.

________________________________________

Wafer Process & Device Integration

            Analyze interactions between epitaxy, lithography, etch, deposition, metallization, inspection (AVI), and electrical/optical test steps.

            Identify how upstream variability propagates into final device performance.

            Provide Design-for-Manufacturability (DFM) input during new product development.

            Reduce process sensitivity through structured experimentation and device-level insight.

________________________________________

New Product Introduction (NPI)

            Own yield performance during new product ramp from development into high-volume manufacturing.

            Conduct structured technical risk assessments.

            Rapidly identify and mitigate yield sensitivities during early production.

            Shorten yield learning cycles using disciplined experimentation and data-driven decisions.

________________________________________

Customer & External Technical Engagement

            Serve as a primary technical interface for key customers on yield, device performance, and reliability topics.

            Present complex technical findings clearly and confidently to customer engineering and quality teams.

            Lead technical discussions during customer audits and yield reviews.

            Support joint root cause investigations and corrective action plans.

            Translate internal manufacturing data into customer-relevant performance metrics.

            Build customer trust through clear, physics-based explanations of device behavior and variability.

________________________________________

What Success Looks Like

            Sustained improvement in product yield and variability across the full manufacturing flow.

            Rapid containment and permanent resolution of yield excursions.

            Successful high-yield ramp of new products into volume manufacturing.

            Strong correlation established between epitaxial behavior and device-level outcomes.

            Development of predictive models that prevent yield loss before it occurs.

            Recognition internally and externally as a technical authority on product behavior.

            Earned trust from key customers through technical rigor and consistent performance.

Education & Experience

            PhD in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Materials Science, or related discipline with strong emphasis on semiconductor device physics or relevant experience with Master/B-Eng.

            5+ years of experience in semiconductor device, product, or yield engineering in high-volume manufacturing.

            Demonstrated history of independently leading complex technical investigations and delivering measurable yield improvement.

            Experience in compound semiconductor or optoelectronic device manufacturing strongly preferred.

Required Technical Skills

            Strong foundation in solid-state physics and semiconductor device operation.

            Working knowledge of compound semiconductor epitaxy and epi reactor operation.

            Understanding of key epitaxial variables including temperature control, V/III ratio, precursor flow stability, pressure control, strain, and dopant incorporation.

            Experience correlating material-level variation to device electrical and optical performance.

            Advanced proficiency in statistical analysis and DOE methodology.

            Proficiency in JMP, Python, R, or equivalent data analysis tools.

            Strong SQL skills for querying large manufacturing databases.

            Experience with SPC, multivariate modeling, regression analysis, and variance decomposition.

            Ability to automate data extraction and analysis workflows.

            Experience presenting technical material to external customers or executive leadership.

            Ability to defend technical conclusions under scrutiny.

Personal Attributes

            Intellectual curiosity and comfort operating in ambiguous technical environments.

            High ownership mindset and accountability for outcomes.

            Ability to challenge assumptions with data and physics-based reasoning.

            Strong cross-functional influence skills.

            Clear and confident communicator in both technical and customer-facing settings.

Safety Requirements

All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.

Quality and Environmental Responsibilities

Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

Culture Commitment

Ensure adherence to company's values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:

Integrity - Create an Environment of Trust

Collaboration - Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas

Accountability - Own the Process and the Outcome

Respect - Recognize the Value in Everyone

Enthusiasm - Find a Sense of Purpose in Work


 

Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.


 

If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at talentacquisition@coherent.com.


 

Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!
Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.