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Compound Semiconductor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nokia

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 ...

Raytheon

Sr Semiconductor Foundry Engineer

Andover, MA

$105K - $145K/yr

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

Semtech

Technician 3, Production

Alhambra, CA · On-site

$27 - $39/hr

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

Semtech

Technician 3, Production

Alhambra, CA · On-site

$39/hr

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

Raytheon

Sr Semiconductor Foundry Engineer

Andover, MA

$105K - $145K/yr

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

Semtech

Process Development Engineer

Alhambra, CA · On-site

$73K - $110K/yr

Strong hands-on understanding of InP-based or III-V compound semiconductor wafer fabrication processes * Strong understanding of plasma processes, etch chemistries, and thin-film properties

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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.
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Compound Semiconductor jobs near you
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.

Device Engineer - Senior Product & Yield Device Engineer

The Hiring Method, LLC

Sherman, TX • On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 hours ago

Job description

Location: Sherman, TX

Work Setting: Primarily onsite semiconductor manufacturing environment (hybrid flexibility may be considered for highly qualified candidates after ramp-up period)

Relocation: Relocation assistance available on a case-by-case basis

Compensation: $125,000 – $175,000 base salary

Bonus: Annual bonus target of 12%–16% with potential equity eligibility on a case-by-case basis

Benefits: Full medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with employer match, paid time off, equity eligibility, and comprehensive employer benefits package

Sponsorship: Will consider H1b-transfers/TN-1 Visas


Position Summary

The Senior Product & Yield Device Engineer is a highly technical semiconductor engineering role responsible for full product ownership and yield improvement across advanced optoelectronic device manufacturing operations. This position supports high-volume semiconductor production focused on cutting-edge devices serving consumer electronics, AI, and data communications markets.

This engineer will drive product yield improvement initiatives across the full semiconductor manufacturing flow, including epitaxy, wafer fabrication, device testing, inspection, and final product performance. The role requires deep expertise in semiconductor device physics, statistical analysis, and structured root-cause problem solving.

This is not a passive reporting role. The ideal candidate is a highly analytical technical leader who independently decomposes complex yield and device performance challenges, correlates material and process variation to electrical and optical performance, and drives sustainable corrective actions across manufacturing operations.


What You’ll Do

  • Own product yield performance across high-volume optoelectronic semiconductor manufacturing operations
  • Drive rapid resolution of yield excursions and execute root-cause/corrective action initiatives to completion
  • Perform advanced data mining and statistical analysis to correlate epitaxial, process, and manufacturing variables to device performance
  • Analyze semiconductor device failures and translate findings into actionable process and reactor optimization improvements
  • Partner closely with Epitaxy, Process Engineering, Manufacturing, Test, and Product teams to improve overall yield and product performance
  • Utilize DOE methodologies and statistical analysis tools to optimize manufacturing performance and process stability
  • Support production line hold resolution and drive rapid disposition activities to minimize manufacturing downtime
  • Correlate material-level variation to electrical and optical device performance outcomes
  • Develop technical models and analytical frameworks tied to yield optimization and device reliability
  • Support customer-facing technical discussions and cross-functional engineering reviews as needed
  • Present and defend technical conclusions using data-driven analysis and semiconductor device physics principles
  • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives tied to manufacturing scale-up and operational excellence


What You Bring

  • PhD in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Materials Science, or related technical discipline strongly preferred
  • 5+ years of semiconductor device, product, or yield engineering experience within high-volume manufacturing environments
  • Strong foundation in solid-state physics and semiconductor device operation
  • Deep understanding of semiconductor manufacturing and device performance relationships
  • Experience with compound semiconductor epitaxy and epi reactor operations
  • Strong knowledge of epitaxial variables including V/III ratio, precursor flow stability, pressure control, strain, temperature control, and dopant incorporation
  • Advanced proficiency in statistical analysis, DOE methodologies, and data mining techniques
  • Experience with JMP, Python, R, or similar analytical software platforms
  • Strong analytical thinking and structured problem-solving abilities
  • Ability to communicate and defend technical conclusions in high-visibility engineering environments
  • Experience supporting high-volume semiconductor manufacturing operations


Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with optoelectronic devices, photonics, or compound semiconductor technologies
  • Background supporting both NPI and mature production semiconductor products
  • Experience correlating epitaxial variation to optical and electrical device performance
  • Knowledge of semiconductor reliability and failure analysis methodologies
  • Customer-facing technical support experience
  • Strong ownership mentality with urgency and accountability in manufacturing support environments


What You Get

  • Competitive base salary with strong bonus and potential equity opportunity
  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) match
  • Opportunity to work on advanced semiconductor technologies supporting AI and high-speed communications markets
  • High-impact technical ownership role with visibility across engineering and manufacturing leadership
  • Fast-paced semiconductor manufacturing environment with strong growth momentum
  • Opportunity to drive large-scale yield improvements and influence product performance directly
  • Strong technical mentorship and long-term career growth opportunities
  • Exposure to advanced compound semiconductor manufacturing and product engineering operations
  • Collaborative engineering culture focused on innovation, technical rigor, and operational excellence