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Etch Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Atomic Layer Etch (ALE), EUV patterned layer etch integration; Radical and Vapor phase isotropic etching; Ash and surface treatments; Novel patterning or materials specific etch solutions

Atomic Layer Etch (ALE), EUV patterned layer etch integration; Radical and Vapor phase isotropic etching; Ash and surface treatments; Novel patterning or materials specific etch solutions

Process Development Engineer

Alhambra, CA ยท On-site

$73K - $110K/yr

Deposition and Etch Process Development & Ownership (35%): * Develop, qualify, and maintain PECVD ... Bachelor's degree or higher in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering ...

Process Development Engineer

Alhambra, CA ยท On-site

$73K - $110K/yr

The Process Development Engineer - InP Wafer Fab position is responsible for development ... Deposition and Etch Process Development & Ownership (35%): * Develop, qualify, and maintain PECVD ...

Showing results 21-40

Etch Engineer information

See California salary details

$32.6K

$88K

$140.1K

How much do etch engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for etch engineer in California is $88,015.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,600.00 and $107,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an etch engineer?

Etch Engineers are professionals who specialize in the process of removing specific layers from semiconductor wafers during the manufacturing of microchips and electronic components. They develop, optimize, and monitor etching processes using chemical or plasma-based techniques to achieve precise patterns on wafers. Etch Engineers work closely with other process engineers to ensure high yield and quality in semiconductor fabrication, troubleshooting issues and improving efficiency. Their expertise is critical for producing the tiny, complex structures found in modern electronics.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an etch engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Etch Engineer, you need a solid understanding of semiconductor fabrication processes, materials science, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with plasma etching equipment, process control software, and cleanroom protocols is typically required, along with experience in statistical process control (SPC) and failure analysis tools. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout professionals apart in this role. These skills are crucial for optimizing etch processes, ensuring product quality, and maintaining efficient semiconductor manufacturing operations.

What are some common challenges faced by etch engineers during process development, and how are they typically addressed?

Etch Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining uniformity across wafers, minimizing defects, and adapting recipes for new materials or device structures. Addressing these issues typically involves close collaboration with process integration and equipment engineering teams, rigorous experimentation, and data analysis to fine-tune process parameters. Continuous learning and adapting to rapid technology changes are also essential parts of the role, making strong problem-solving skills and teamwork crucial for success.

What is the difference between Etch Engineer vs Process Engineer?

AspectEtch EngineerProcess Engineer
Primary FocusDeveloping and optimizing etching processes for semiconductor fabricationDesigning, implementing, and improving overall manufacturing processes
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of plasma etching, cleanroom protocols, and process control; often requires a degree in engineering or materials scienceBroad engineering background, often with certifications in process management or quality control
Work EnvironmentCleanroom environments in semiconductor fabsManufacturing facilities, labs, or production lines

While both roles are integral to semiconductor manufacturing, Etch Engineers specialize in etching processes, whereas Process Engineers oversee the entire manufacturing process. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and focus, with Etch Engineers concentrating on specific etching techniques and Process Engineers managing overall process efficiency and quality.

Infographic showing various Etch Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,015 per year, or $42.3 per hour.

Dry Etch Process Development Engineer (42024)

Headway Technologies

Milpitas, CA โ€ข On-site

$121 - $178/hr

Other

Posted 16 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develops and implements new dry etch processes (RIE, IBE, and Ashing) for next generation magnetic recording heads

  • Designs and conducts experiments, analyzes data, and develops recommendations to improve performance and yield

  • Partners with other groups to develop and deliver products and programs, and oversees the work of Process Technicians to ensure accurate process execution


Job description

Job Details

Job Location: Milipitas, CA 95035

Salary Range: $120,819.00 - $177,675.00 Salary/year

Job Shift: Any

Title: DRY ETCH PROCESS DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER

FLSA STATUS: EXEMPT

Reports To: DIRECTOR, DRY ETCH PROCESS DEVELOPMENT

SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Director of Dry Etch Process Development, the Dry Etch Process Development Engineer 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*
QUALIFICATIONS

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in Materials Science, Physics, or Electrical Engineering and/or equivalent relevant experience; Masterโ€™s degree preferred
  • One to three years of experience working in the magnetic recording head, hard disk drive, or semiconductor industry in dry etch process development
  • 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 Reactive Ion Etching (RIE), IBE, and Ashing 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 Microsoft Office applications to create spreadsheets, Word documents, and presentations
  • Knowledge and ability to use Statistical Process Control (SPC) to analyze data, create reports, present findings, and recommend appropriate action
  • 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 $120,819.00-$177,675.00 + 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 Process Development 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 site-to-site 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.

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