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Contract Lithography Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... service contracts, and oversee major tool overhauls. User Training & Technical Communication ... Five or more years of experience working as a lithography engineer in a university, government, or ...

Lithography Engineer

Yorktown Heights, NY · On-site

$111K - $137K/yr

... permanent and contract roles across Asia, Europe and the US. With a proven track record in ... The Advanced Lithography group is responsible for operating tools, processing wafers, developing ...

Lithography Engineer

Yorktown Heights, NY · On-site

$111K - $137K/yr

... permanent and contract roles across Asia, Europe and the US. With a proven track record in ... The Advanced Lithography group is responsible for operating tools, processing wafers, developing ...

Semiconductor Materials Engineer (Contract) Sigma Design has collaborated with a consumer ... Serve as a secondary owner for one additional process module (lithography, PVD, etch, ECD, CVD, or ...

Primary Responsibilities Create 2D lithography mask layouts in accordance with internal standards ... Requirements include US Citizenship due to government contracts. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities ...

Primary Responsibilities Create 2D lithography mask layouts in accordance with internal standards ... Requirements include US Citizenship due to government contracts. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities ...

Semiconductor Materials Engineer (Contract) Sigma Design has collaborated with a consumer ... Serve as a secondary owner for one additional process module (lithography, PVD, etch, ECD, CVD, or ...

Primary Responsibilities • Create 2D lithography mask layouts in accordance with internal ... Requirements include US Citizenship due to government contracts. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities ...

Primary Responsibilities • Create 2D lithography mask layouts in accordance with internal ... Requirements include US Citizenship due to government contracts. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities ...

... lithography for advanced semiconductor packaging. Our breadth of offerings across the entire ... Identify and initiate cost reduction opportunities, support contract negotiation projects * Ensure ...

... lithography for advanced semiconductor packaging. Our breadth of offerings across the entire ... Identify and initiate cost reduction opportunities, support contract negotiation projects * Ensure ...

Staff Manufacturing Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$85K - $109K/yr

... lithography for advanced semiconductor packaging. Our breadth of offerings across the entire ... Support extended factory and contract manufacturer operations by providing technical guidance ...

Staff Manufacturing Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$85K - $109K/yr

... lithography for advanced semiconductor packaging. Our breadth of offerings across the entire ... Support extended factory and contract manufacturer operations by providing technical guidance ...

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Contract Lithography Engineer information

See salary details

$38K

$115.9K

$191.5K

How much do contract lithography engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract lithography engineer in the United States is $115,864.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,000.00 and $151,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are contract lithography engineers?

Contract lithography engineers are professionals who specialize in the process of transferring patterns onto semiconductor wafers using light-based techniques, and they work on a contractual basis rather than as permanent employees. They are typically hired by semiconductor manufacturing companies or research facilities to optimize and troubleshoot photolithography processes, develop new lithographic techniques, and ensure high-quality results in chip production. Their expertise is essential for producing ever-smaller and more powerful semiconductor devices. These engineers may work on short-term projects, helping companies meet production targets or solve specific technical challenges.

What are some common challenges faced by Contract Lithography Engineers when joining a new fabrication facility?

Contract Lithography Engineers often encounter challenges adapting to different fab environments, including learning unique process flows, equipment setups, and cleanroom protocols. Each facility may use distinct lithography tools (such as ASML or Nikon steppers), requiring quick technical adaptation and troubleshooting. Additionally, integrating with existing process engineering teams and understanding specific yield or throughput goals is essential. Success in this role often depends on strong communication skills, flexibility, and a proactive approach to learning new technical systems.

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

To thrive as a Contract Lithography Engineer, you need a solid background in semiconductor physics, photolithography processes, and cleanroom protocols, often supported by a degree in electrical engineering, materials science, or a related field. Familiarity with advanced lithography tools (such as steppers and scanners), process control software, and industry certifications like SEMI are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring precise pattern transfer, maintaining yield, and meeting the high standards of semiconductor manufacturing environments.

What is the difference between Contract Lithography Engineer vs Contract Process Engineer?

AspectContract Lithography EngineerContract Process Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field; experience with lithography toolsBachelor's or Master's in Chemical, Materials, or Mechanical Engineering; process optimization skills
Work EnvironmentCleanroom environments in semiconductor fabrication facilitiesManufacturing plants, cleanrooms, or R&D labs in semiconductor or electronics industries
Employer & Industry UsageSemiconductor fabs, electronics manufacturingSemiconductor, electronics, and high-tech manufacturing companies

While both roles operate within semiconductor manufacturing, a Contract Lithography Engineer specializes in photolithography processes and equipment, whereas a Contract Process Engineer focuses on overall manufacturing processes. The roles often overlap but differ in technical focus and specific skill sets.

More about Contract Lithography Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Lithography Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Contract Lithography Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Lithography Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Lithography Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Lithography Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Lithography Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Contract Lithography Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 95% Full Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,864 per year, or $55.7 per hour.
CLAWS Lithography Engineer

CLAWS Lithography Engineer

North Carolina State University

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$110K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


North Carolina State University rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

384th of 532 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Posting Information
Posting Number
PG194452EP
Internal Recruitment
No
Working Title
CLAWS Lithography Engineer
Anticipated Hiring Range
Commensurate with Education and Experience (up to $110,000)
Work Schedule
Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pm
Job Location
Raleigh, NC
Department
Commercial Leap Ahead for Wide Bandgap Semiconductors (CLAWS)
About the Department
North Carolina State University is leading the charge as the recipient of a >$78 million award from the Department of Defense to establish the regional Microelectronics Commons regional innovation hub, Commercial Leap Ahead for Wide Bandgap Semiconductors (CLAWS). This initiative, part of the larger $2B investment through the Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) and Science Act, aims to revolutionize the field of wide bandgap semiconductors.
Hub leadership, Distinguished Professors John Muth and Fred Kish, are dedicated to the "lab to fab" journey-translating laboratory advancements into fabrication capabilities for wide bandgap semiconductors. The hub brings together a dynamic partnership with N.C. A&T State University and industry leaders, including MACOM, Coherent Corp., General Electric, Bluglass, Adroit Materials, and Kyma Technologies, Inc. This collaborative effort will propel the development of semiconductors crucial for national defense, electric vehicles, power grid technologies, 5G/6G, quantum technologies, and artificial intelligence applications.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits
As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Propositionand learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.
What we offer:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Retirement Programs
  • Disability Plans
  • Life Insurance
  • Accident Plan
  • Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
  • 12 Holidays Each Year
  • Tuition and Academic Assistance
  • And so much more!

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties
We are seeking a highly-skilled lithography engineer to join our team and contribute to the ownership for NNF's suite of lithography capabilities. The ideal candidate will have deep, hands-on experience in all lithographic processes; including contact lithography tools, stepper/projection lithography tools, automated wafer coat/develop stations, and e-beam/laser direct-write systems.
Process Research & Development
  • Advanced Development: Lead the design and optimization of cutting-edge photolithography processes tailored for next-generation applications, specifically targeting wide-bandgap devices for RF, power electronics, and photonics.
  • Technical Consultation: Provide expert-level process integration support to internal and external users, translating complex device requirements into repeatable lithographic workflows.
  • Service Excellence: Execute high-precision service work for external customers, ensuring all deliverables meet rigorous industry standards for semiconductor fabrication.

Equipment Engineering & Maintenance
  • Serve as the primary technical lead for lithography toolsets, ensuring maximum uptime and process stability through regular baseline monitoring.
  • Maintenance & Repair: Independently perform scheduled preventative maintenance and diagnose/repair unscheduled hardware failures to minimize facility downtime.
  • Vendor Management: Manage relationships with equipment manufacturers; coordinate complex service visits, manage service contracts, and oversee major tool overhauls.

User Training & Technical Communication
  • Develop and deliver comprehensive training programs for students and researchers, certifying users on tool operation, chemical safety, and lithographic theory.
  • Act as the central communication hub for the lithography area, providing timely updates to management and users regarding tool status, process drifts, or facility interruptions.

Facility Operations & Compliance
  • Actively participate in facility safety audits and uphold strict cleanroom protocols to ensure a safe working environment for all personnel.
  • Maintain meticulous records including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), maintenance logs, user databases, and training certifications.
  • Oversee the lithography supply chain, managing the inventory of specialized chemicals, resists, and critical spare parts to ensure uninterrupted lab operations.

Other Responsibilities
  • Performing all necessary day-to-day tasks required to operate a multi-user facility such as ordering and maintaining consumables inventory, contributing to housecleaning/lab organization, maintaining lab-level documentation, etc.
  • Contributing to technical discussions with users and staff.
  • Working with/mentoring student staff.
  • Working with fellow NNF staff members in other semiconductor fabrication technologies (etch, deposition, metrology, etc.).

Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in science or engineering discipline
  • Five or more years of experience working as a lithography engineer in a university, government, or industry laboratory

Other Required Qualifications
  • Excellent hands-on skill with troubleshooting and repairing lab equipment
  • Ability to work and communicate effectively with all levels of personnel, including students
  • Must be able to work independently as well as make positive team contributions
  • Familiarity with environmental health and safety protocols
  • Must be comfortable working safely with chemicals and compressed gases
  • Eligibility to obtain clearance upon request of the US government

Preferred Qualifications
  • M.S. or Ph.D. in Science or Engineering discipline
  • Ten years of experience working as a lithography engineer in a university, government, or industry laboratory
  • Experience with Manufacturing Execution SystemsExperience with electron beam lithography
  • Two or more years working in an R1 University setting

Required License(s) or Certification(s)
  • N/A

Valid NC Driver's License required
No
Commercial Driver's License required
No
Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions
Job Open Date
02/05/2026
Anticipated Close Date
Open Until Filled
Special Instructions to Applicants
Please include as attachments a resume/CV, cover letter, and contact information for at least 3 professional references.
Position Details
Position Number
00111842
Position Type
EPS/SAAO
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week)
1.0
Appointment
12 Month Recurring
Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather
Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather
Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events
Non Mandatory - Emergency Event
Department ID
140110 - CLAWS
EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

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About North Carolina State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

North Carolina State University (NCSU), located in Raleigh, NC, US, is a leading educational institution with a strong emphasis on research, academics, and public service. Established in 1887, NCSU operates in the education industry and endeavors to foster student success, and promote economic development by providing high-quality, affordable education, and conducting groundbreaking research across a variety of disciplines. With more than 100 majors, its academic offerings range from undergraduates to postgraduates along with doctoral studies - in various fields like engineering, natural resources, humanities, and social sciences. NCSU is firmly anchored on the core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, and innovation. Its mission is to create economic, societal, and intellectual prosperity for the people of North Carolina and the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1887