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Defect Reduction Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Process Integration and Defect reduction Engineer SQL Important: if an employer asks you to log into their system via iCloud or Google, send a code, an SMS or Telegram password, run some code, or ...

NY · On-site

$70K - $97K/yr

... reduction of top defect modes across manufacturing operations. * Develop and conduct statistical ... Bachelor's degree in engineering or applied science with 2-5 years of relevant experience or ...

NY · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

... reduction of top defect modes across manufacturing operations. * Develop and conduct statistical ... Bachelor's degree in engineering or applied science with 2‑5 years of relevant experience, or ...

$70K - $97K/yr

... reduction of top defect modes across manufacturing operations. Develops and conducts statistical ... Bachelor's degree in engineering or applied science with 2-5 years of relevant experience or ...

NY · On-site

$70K - $97K/yr

... reduction of top defect modes across manufacturing operations. Develops and conducts statistical ... Bachelor's degree in engineering or applied science with 2-5 years of relevant experience or ...

$140K - $198K/yr

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical ... Experience with yield analysis and defect reduction methodologies. * Experience applying Failure ...

... reduction of top defect modes across manufacturing operations. Develops and conducts statistical ... Bachelor's degree in engineering or applied science with 2-5 years of relevant experience or ...

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Defect Reduction Engineer information

What is a defect reduction engineer?

Defect Reduction Engineers are professionals who focus on identifying, analyzing, and minimizing defects within manufacturing or production processes. They use quality control techniques, root cause analysis, and process improvement methodologies to reduce the occurrence of product or process defects. Their work ensures higher product quality, increased efficiency, and lower costs by preventing errors before they reach customers. Defect Reduction Engineers often collaborate with cross-functional teams and play a key role in continuous improvement initiatives. They are commonly employed in industries like electronics, automotive, and semiconductor manufacturing.

What are common challenges faced by defect reduction engineers, and how are they addressed within a manufacturing team?

Defect Reduction Engineers often encounter challenges such as identifying the root causes of defects in complex manufacturing processes and implementing sustainable solutions across multiple departments. They work closely with quality assurance, production, and engineering teams to analyze data, conduct root cause analyses, and deploy process improvements. Collaboration, clear communication, and a strong understanding of statistical methods are essential to overcome these challenges. Regular cross-functional meetings and the use of continuous improvement methodologies like Six Sigma help ensure that defect reduction strategies are effective and aligned with overall production goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defect reduction engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Defect Reduction Engineer, you need a solid background in process engineering, data analysis, and quality control, often supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with statistical analysis tools such as Minitab, Six Sigma methodologies, and manufacturing execution systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help drive cross-functional initiatives and continuous improvement. These skills are crucial for identifying, analyzing, and reducing defects to ensure optimal product quality and manufacturing efficiency.

What is the difference between Defect Reduction Engineer vs Quality Assurance Engineer?

AspectDefect Reduction EngineerQuality Assurance Engineer
CertificationsSix Sigma, Lean, Quality ManagementISO, Six Sigma, ISTQB
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, production, or engineering settings focused on defect preventionSoftware, manufacturing, or service industries focused on process and product quality
Primary FocusReducing defects through process improvements and root cause analysisEnsuring overall quality standards and compliance

The Defect Reduction Engineer primarily focuses on identifying and eliminating defects in manufacturing or engineering processes, emphasizing process improvements and root cause analysis. In contrast, the Quality Assurance Engineer concentrates on establishing quality standards, testing, and ensuring products or services meet specified requirements. While both roles aim to improve quality, the Defect Reduction Engineer is more process-oriented, whereas the QA Engineer emphasizes compliance and testing.

What cities are hiring for Defect Reduction Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Defect Reduction Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Defect Reduction Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Defect Reduction Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Defect Reduction Engineer jobs?

For Defect Reduction Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Defect Reduction Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Hybrid job distribution.

Defect Reduction Engineer

Austin, TX • On-site

Samsung Semiconductor, Inc.
Appliances and Electrical and Electronics Wholesalers • 10K+ employees

$76K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Samsung Electronics rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

About Samsung Austin Semiconductor
Samsung is a world leader in advanced semiconductor technology, founded on the belief that the pursuit of excellence creates a better world. At Samsung Austin Semiconductor, we are Innovating Today to Power the Devices of Tomorrow.

Come innovate with us!

Position Summary

As a Defect Reduction Engineer, the candidate will support defect control and reduction work in a high volume 24x7 manufacturing environment, on purpose to achieve yield and performance goals.

Role and Responsibilities

Here's what you'll be responsible for:

  • Supporting New Product Introduction (NPI) as the Defect Reduction representative: attending meetings, presenting inline inspection strategy & methodology, supporting GPM set up, spec audits, and comparison, evaluating unit part process changes and tool spreads in terms of inline and NPW defectivity data.

  • Performing fab process/tool trend data and correlation analysis to identify dog tools, trace defects to root cause, and rapidly take action to prevent inline process excursions.

  • Working cross-functionally with YE/PIE/UP to evaluate defect data on BKMs & projects, excursion monitoring & control, SWLY reduction.

  • Establishing FCC (Failed Chip Count) and trend monitoring plans for new technology introductions and ramps (14nm & foundry) and existing legacy production nodes (45nm/32nm/28nm) in order to achieve yield and performance goals, and support on weekly module meetings & activities.

  • Responding to foundry customer requests and delivering the data & analysis to meet expectation.

  • Supporting new technology and process transfer projects from Samsung HQ (South Korea).

Skills and Qualifications

Here's what you'll need:

  • Requires a Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Chemical, Mechanical Engineering, Material Science, Chemistry, Physics or related technical fields.
  • Requires a minimum of 10 years of Semiconductor process engineering experience in defect monitor and reduction.
  • Experience in leading logic technology (45nm or below) development is strongly preferred.
  • Relevant experience in advanced defect inspection and review tools (bright field, dark field, e-beam, Vis-edge...etc) is strongly preferred.
  • Knowledge of Klarity Defect (or similar) software and its application in a semiconductor processing environment is useful.
  • Working knowledge in SPC and DOE methodology is required
  • Excellent communication skills (written, verbal and presentation) and experience as a contributing member of cross functional teams is required
  • Strong data mining, troubleshooting skills and an energetic self-starter personality preferred.
  • Strong organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and able to react to shifting priorities.
  • Ability to meet deadlines, schedules and commitments is required.

The current base salary range for this role is between $76,000- $145,000. Individual base pay rates will depend on factors including duties, work location, education, skills, qualifications and experience. Total compensation for this position will include a competitive benefits package and may include participation in company incentive compensation programs, which are based on factors to include organizational and individual performance.

Total Rewards
At Samsung Austin Semiconductor, base pay is just one part of our total compensation package. The base compensation for this role will depend on education, experience, skills, and location.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance

  • Life insurance and 401(k) matching with immediate vesting

  • Onsite cafe(s) and workout facilities

  • Paid maternity and paternity leave

  • Paid time off (PTO) + 2 personal holidays and 10 regular holidays

  • Wellness incentives and MORE

Eligible full-time employees (salaried or hourly) may also receive MBO bonuses based on company, division, and individual performance.

All positions at Samsung Austin Semiconductor are full-time on-site.

U.S. Export Control Compliance
This role may require access to information subject to U.S. export control laws. Applicants must be authorized to access such information or eligible for government authorization.

Trade Secrets Notice
By submitting an application, you agree not to disclose to Samsung-or encourage Samsung to use-any confidential or proprietary information (including trade secrets) belonging to a current or former employer or other entity.

* Please visit Samsung membership to see Privacy Policy, which defaults according to your location. You can change Country/Language at the bottom of the page. If you are European Economic Resident, please click here.


* Samsung Electronics America, Inc. and its subsidiaries are committed to Equal Employment Opportunity for all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, status as a qualified individual with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.


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