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Compound Semiconductor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RFMicro develops, designs, and manufactures compound semiconductor devices, microwave/millimeter wave integrated circuits, and modules for defense applications. Your subject matter technical ...

Semi MFG Technician 2

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$35K - $60K/yr

Experience and familiarity with compound semiconductor epitaxy equipment, processes, and characterization tools (including photoluminescence and x-ray diffraction) is highly desirable, but not ...

This department develops, designs, and manufactures compound semiconductor devices, microwave/millimeter-wave integrated circuits, and modules for defense applications. The ideal candidates for these ...

This department develops, designs, and manufactures compound semiconductor devices, microwave/millimeter-wave integrated circuits, and modules for defense applications. The ideal candidates for these ...

This position requires strong technical expertise, problem-solving capability, and the ability to work independently in a compound semiconductor cleanroom environment. Responsibilities: DFB Grating ...

This position requires strong technical expertise, problem-solving capability, and the ability to work independently in a compound semiconductor cleanroom environment. Responsibilities: DFB Grating ...

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Compound Semiconductor information

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$12

$23

$36

How much do compound semiconductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,394 per year, or $23.3 per hour.
Principal GaN Reliability Engineer

Principal GaN Reliability Engineer

Raytheon

Andover, MA

$103K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Raytheon rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-05-29

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-MA-ANDOVER-AR1 ~ 358 Lowell St ~ AR1 DUKES BLDG

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance is required.​ U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance

Security Clearance Type:

DoD Clearance: Secret

Security Clearance Status:

Active and existing security clearance required after day 1

At Raytheon, the foundation of everything we do is rooted in our values and a higher calling – to help our nation and allies defend freedoms and deter aggression.  We bring the strength of more than 100 years of experience and renowned engineering expertise to meet the needs of today’s mission and stay ahead of tomorrow’s threat.  Our team solves tough, meaningful problems that create a safer, more secure world. 

Job Summary:

An exciting opportunity has opened for a Principal GaN Reliability Engineer to join our RF Microelectronics/Module Design & Foundry Services Department (RFMicro) at Raytheon in Andover, MA. RFMicro develops, designs, and manufactures compound semiconductor devices, microwave/millimeter wave integrated circuits, and modules for defense applications. Your subject matter technical expertise in reliability testing and characterization, device physics, and applied statistics is key to the success on this role. As a lead engineer, you will need to communicate efficiently and effectively with a cross-functional team and are expected to demonstrate strong ownership and accountability.

This 1st shift role will be 100% on-site and based in Andover, MA

What You Will Do:

  • Own end-to-end reliability tasks (plan, design, test, analyze, report) with strong initiatives to go above and beyond

  • Push Device Reliability Function to a higher level through exploration of new ideas, advising and implementing new approaches and methodologies

  • Relentlessly interact with a team of process engineers, technology owners, support team, and project leads

  • Produce key reliability metrics such as MTTF, failure rates, and safe operating conditions

  • Work with compound semiconductor transistors, passive components, and monolithic microwave integrated circuits (MMICs)

  • Interact with probe stations and multiple reliability testing systems (DC and RFOL)

  • Support onsite wafer foundry’s next-generation technology development, tool qualification, and reliability-oriented design rule verification and development

  • Coordinate failure analysis

Qualifications You Must Have:

  • Typically requires a Bachelor’s Degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM)

  • A minimum 8 years of prior work experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field with minimum 5 years of prior work experience with device-level reliability testing and characterization in compound semiconductor field, preferably GaN and GaAs

  • Experience in the design and execution of reliability test plans

  • Experience with applied statistic, reliability modeling, data analysis, and metrics generation

  • The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance is required. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance. 

Qualifications We Prefer:

  • Solid state device physics knowledge

  • Semiconductor fabrication experience

  • TCAD on GaN electrothermal

  • Failure analysis experience with SEM, FIB, STEM, etc.

  • Experience in RF field

  • Experience with lab tools such as probe stations, curve tracers, Keithly/Keysight equipment

  • Experience with related industry standards such as JEDEC, MIL

  • Python, PyQt, and data analysis tools (Pandas, Sklearn, Matplotlib)

  • Strong problem-solving skills

  • Project management skills

  • Strong informal and formal reporting and presenting skills

What We Offer:

Our values drive our actions, behaviors, and performance with a vision for a safer, more connected world. At RTX we value: Safety, Trust, Respect, Accountability, Collaboration, and Innovation.

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

The salary range for this role is 107,500 USD - 204,500 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement.Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance.This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply.RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

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