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Dry Etch Process Engineer information

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$48.9K

$90.8K

$140.6K

How much do dry etch process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for dry etch process engineer in California is $90,813.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $101,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dry etch process engineer?

A Dry Etch Process Engineer develops and optimizes plasma etching processes used in semiconductor manufacturing to create precise microchip features. They work with tools such as reactive ion etchers (RIE) and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) systems to ensure high-quality pattern transfer. Responsibilities include process monitoring, troubleshooting equipment issues, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to improve yield and efficiency. This role requires expertise in semiconductor physics, plasma chemistry, and data analysis.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dry etch process engineer?

To thrive as a Dry Etch Process Engineer, you need a solid background in semiconductor processing, materials science, and statistical process control, often supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with plasma etching tools, process characterization software, and cleanroom operations is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to work collaboratively within cross-functional teams are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure precise process optimization, effective troubleshooting, and continuous improvement in a fast-evolving manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by dry etch process engineers and how are they addressed on the job?

Dry Etch Process Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining tight process tolerances, minimizing defects, and troubleshooting complex equipment issues. These challenges are met through continuous monitoring of process parameters, root-cause analysis, and collaboration with equipment maintenance, integration, and R&D teams. Engineers frequently use statistical analysis and process characterization techniques to identify trends and implement corrective actions. This collaborative and data-driven approach helps ensure consistent product quality and efficient manufacturing operations.

Dry Etch Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dry Etch Process Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Internship, 86% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,813 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

Dry Etch Process Engineer

Newport Beach, CA • On-site

Prosum Inc.
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Prosum Inc.external

Other

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Job Description
Dry Etch Process EngineerSalary Range: $100k to $130k
Job Summary
Our client is seeking an experienced Dry Etch Process Engineer to support and enhance dry etch processes within a high-volume semiconductor manufacturing environment. This position will focus on sustaining existing processes, developing new process capabilities, improving yield and quality, and supporting the transition of new technologies into production. The ideal candidate is a collaborative problem-solver with strong technical expertise in semiconductor process engineering.
Key Responsibilities
  • Sustain, monitor, and optimize dry etch processes in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
  • Develop and implement process improvements to enhance yield, throughput, quality, and overall process performance.
  • Troubleshoot process-related issues and drive root cause analysis to resolve yield and reliability concerns.
  • Support the transfer of new process technologies from development into volume manufacturing.
  • Characterize, qualify, and validate new process equipment, upgrades, and process changes.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Manufacturing, Integration, Equipment Engineering, and Quality to meet production and reliability objectives.
  • Analyze process data and implement continuous improvement initiatives using statistical methods.
  • Benchmark process performance and share best practices across engineering teams.
  • Ensure processes meet qualification, quality, and reliability requirements.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related engineering or science discipline.
  • Minimum of 3 years of dry etch process engineering experience in a semiconductor manufacturing environment (2+ years with an advanced degree may be considered).
  • Strong understanding of dry etch process fundamentals, equipment, and semiconductor manufacturing principles.
  • Experience troubleshooting process issues and driving continuous process improvements.
  • Experience with Design of Experiments (DOE), statistical analysis, and process characterization.
  • Proficiency with JMP or similar statistical analysis software.
  • Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively within cross-functional teams.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's or Ph.D. in a related engineering or scientific discipline.
  • Experience with poly etch and/or metal etch processes.
  • Hands-on experience with semiconductor etch equipment such as LAM 2300, LAM 9600, and/or Applied Materials DPS systems.
  • Knowledge of PROMIS WIP management systems.
  • Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, FMEA, and 8D problem-solving methodologies.
  • Six Sigma certification is a plus.

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