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Dry Etch Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking an experienced Staff Process Engineer - Dry Etch - to join our MDCE team and help build a world-class Foundry Customer Engineering organization. This role focuses on Integration and ...

Summary The Sr. Dry Etch Equipment Engineer is responsible for driving equipment reliability, longterm corrective actions, and performance optimization of Dry Etch toolsets in a highvolume ...

Job Title: R&D Engineer - Dry Process (Plasma Etch /Plasma Ablation/ PVD) Expert for Advanced Packaging applications Location: Covington, GA Job Type: Full-Time About Us: Absolics is a leading ...

Plasma Dry Etch Engineer

Covington, GA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Job Title: R&D Engineer - Dry Process (Plasma Etch /Plasma Ablation/ PVD) Expert for Advanced Packaging applications Location: Covington, GA Job Type: Full-Time About Us: Absolics is a leading ...

Senior Dry Etch Technician

Decatur, GA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Well-established and growing organization in the semiconductor manufacturing equipment industry seeking a Senior Dry Etch Technician to join our team in Atlanta, GA. This position is responsible for ...

As a Senior or Staff Engineer on the Dry Etch R&D team, you will play a key role in developing and scaling plasmabased etch processes that enable nextgeneration packaging technologies. This role ...

Sr Dry Etch Equipment Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$104K - $143K/yr

Summary The Sr. Dry Etch Equipment Engineer is responsible for driving equipment reliability, long-term corrective actions, and performance optimization of Dry Etch toolsets in a high-volume ...

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Dry Etch information

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How much do dry etch jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for dry etch in the United States is $15.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $16.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Dry Etch engineer?

A Dry Etch engineer is a specialist in semiconductor manufacturing who operates and optimizes plasma-based etching processes to pattern materials on silicon wafers. They use gases and plasma in vacuum chambers to selectively remove thin layers of materials without using liquid chemicals, which is critical for creating intricate microchip features. Dry Etch engineers are responsible for process development, troubleshooting, and ensuring high-quality, repeatable etch results to support advanced chip designs.

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

To thrive as a Dry Etch Engineer, you need a background in materials science, chemical engineering, or a related field, along with knowledge of semiconductor fabrication processes. Familiarity with dry etch tools (such as plasma etchers), cleanroom protocols, and process control systems is commonly required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and communication skills help ensure process optimization and effective collaboration with cross-functional teams. These skills are critical for maintaining high yield, ensuring device quality, and advancing semiconductor manufacturing efficiency.

What are the main challenges faced by Dry Etch engineers in a semiconductor fabrication environment?

Dry Etch engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining process stability and yield while working with complex device architectures and shrinking feature sizes. Precise control over plasma conditions and etch uniformity is essential, as small variations can significantly impact device performance. Collaborating closely with process integration, equipment engineering, and quality teams is crucial to troubleshoot issues and implement continuous improvements. Additionally, staying current with the latest equipment and process innovations is vital for adapting to rapidly changing technology demands.

What is the difference between Dry Etch vs Wet Etch?

AspectDry EtchWet Etch
Process TypePlasma or vapor phase etchingLiquid chemical etching
PrecisionHigh precision, anisotropicLess precise, isotropic
Work EnvironmentVacuum or controlled atmosphereOpen liquid baths
Common UsesSemiconductor fabrication, microfabricationPrinted circuit boards, MEMS

Dry Etch involves plasma or vapor processes for precise, anisotropic etching in semiconductor manufacturing, while Wet Etch uses liquid chemicals for broader, isotropic material removal. Dry Etch offers higher precision and is suited for microfabrication, whereas Wet Etch is typically used for larger-scale applications. Understanding these differences helps select the appropriate process for specific manufacturing needs.

More about Dry Etch jobs
What cities are hiring for Dry Etch jobs? Cities with the most Dry Etch job openings:
What states have the most Dry Etch jobs? States with the most job openings for Dry Etch jobs include:
Infographic showing various Dry Etch job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,227 per year, or $15 per hour.
DRY ETCH PROCESS DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER (WRITER) (49917)

DRY ETCH PROCESS DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER (WRITER) (49917)

TDK Headway Technologies Inc.

Milpitas, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

TITLE:                        DRY ETCH PROCESS DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER (WRITER)

FLSA STATUS:          EXEMPT

REPORTS TO:           SR. MANAGER, DRY ETCH PROCESS ENGINEERING

SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Director of Dry Etch Process Development, the Dry Etch Process Development Engineer (Writer) is responsible for the developing and implementing new RIE, IBD, and Ashing processes for next generation magnetic recording heads, including implementing new process control schemes which ensure product manufacturability; designs and conducts experiments, analyzes data, and presents findings; research, selects, and qualifies new tools which improve efficiency and yield. This position is located in Milpitas, California.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Develops and implements new dry etch processes (RIE, IBE, and Ashing) for next generation magnetic recording heads
  • Implements new process control schemes or methodologies which ensure product manufacturability
  • Designs and conducts experiments, analyzes data, and develops recommendations for improving performance and yield while reducing scrap
  • Adheres to appropriate timeline for introducing new processes into the manufacturing line
  • Reviews characterization data from FIB, SEM, and TEM tools to conduct root cause analysis and recommend corrective action
  • Partners with other groups and departments, including process and product engineering to develop and deliver products and programs
  • Oversees the work of the Process Technicians to ensure accurate process execution and efficient wafer disposition
  • Partners with Equipment Engineering to research, select, and qualify new RIE tools
  • Adheres to all safety policies and procedures as required
  • Performs other duties of a similar nature or level*

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Physics, or Electrical Engineering and/or equivalent relevant experience; Master’s degree preferred
  • Three years of experience working in the magnetic recording head, hard disk drive, or semiconductor industry as a Process Engineer
  • Experience in plasma etch process development (RIE, IBE, Ashing, etc.) is preferred
  • Experience working in a wafer fab manufacturing environment
  • Experience with Statistical Process Control (SPC)
  • Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Applications

­­Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Knowledge of semiconductor or HDD industry principles, practices, and techniques
  • Knowledge of wafer fabrication processing techniques, including process development and integration practices
  • Knowledge of plasma etch (RIE, IBE, ashing, etc.) principles, practices, and techniques
  • Knowledge of TEM, SEM, and FIB and ability to analyze data from these sources to determine root cause of failure
  • Knowledge and ability to use Excel, JMP, or other software applications such as VBA to analyze data, create reports, present findings, and recommend appropriate action
  • Knowledge and ability to use Microsoft Office applications to create reports and presentations
  • Able to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with all levels of contractors, consultants, employees, and management
  • Able to work productively and collaboratively with all levels of employees and management
  • Able to comply with all safety policies and procedures
  • Demonstrated organizational and time management skills
  • Demonstrated problem-solving and trouble shooting skills
  • Flexible and able to prioritize

The annual base salary for this full-time position is between $96,656.00-$142,000.00 + bonus target + benefits. Within the range the individual pay may differ depending on additional factors including job responsibilities, job related knowledge, skills, abilities, education, and experience. The annual base pay range shown is subject to change and may be modified periodically.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

The Dry Etch Manufacturing Engineer works primarily in an office environment from Monday thru Friday. The schedule may be altered from time-to-time to meet business or operational needs; may travel from building-to-building as needed.  May also work in a class 100 ESD sensitive wafer fab manufacturing facility; adheres to required safety and dress standards. May be exposed to hazardous chemicals, fumes, or vapors and excessive noise from time-to-time while in the wafer manufacturing facility; stands and walks; performs various fine grasping movements, bends, and twists; operates a computer and enters information using a keyboard, operates a telephone, and other office equipment. May occasionally be required to push, pull, or lift up to 10 pounds.

Other duties of a similar nature or level are duties that may be required but may not be specifically listed in the job description or posting.

TDK/Headway Technologies, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. Applicants requiring accommodation in order to complete the application process should contact the Headway Human Resources Department.