1

Etch Process Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NY · On-site

$123K - $169K/yr

Own and sustain the Dry Etch process area or a part thereof along with other department engineers and technicians as part of a 24*7 High Volume Silicon Carbide Wafer Fab. * Respond to any process ...

NY · On-site

$123K - $169K/yr

Own and sustain the Dry Etch process area or a part thereof along with other department engineers and technicians as part of a 24*7 High Volume Silicon Carbide Wafer Fab. Respond to any process ...

Sr. Dry Etch Process Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$98K - $127K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Process Engineer - Etch to join our diverse Engineering Team. In this ... Work handson in the fab alongside Process/Equipment Technicians and Engineers to troubleshoot and ...

Showing results 21-40

Etch Process Technician information

See salary details

$13

$24

$35

How much do etch process technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for etch process technician in the United States is $24.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $28.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an etch process technician?

Etch Process Technicians are specialists who operate, maintain, and troubleshoot equipment used in the etching process during semiconductor manufacturing. They monitor and adjust machinery that removes layers from silicon wafers to create integrated circuits, ensuring precise and defect-free results. These technicians also perform routine inspections, document process data, and collaborate with engineers to optimize production quality and efficiency. Their work is critical for producing reliable microchips used in electronics.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an etch process technician?

To thrive as an Etch Process Technician, you need a solid understanding of semiconductor manufacturing processes, quality control, and typically an associate degree in electronics or a related field. Familiarity with etching equipment, cleanroom protocols, SPC software, and safety certifications like OSHA are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure precise process control, high product quality, and smooth collaboration in high-tech manufacturing environments.

What challenges do etch process technicians face, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Etch Process Technicians often face challenges such as maintaining precise process control, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and adapting to rapidly changing production schedules. New hires can prepare by developing strong attention to detail, familiarizing themselves with cleanroom protocols, and building problem-solving skills. Collaborating closely with engineers and other technicians is essential for quickly resolving issues and meeting production goals, so effective communication is also key. Continuous learning about new etching technologies and process improvements will further support long-term success in this role.

What is the difference between Etch Process Technician vs Wafer Fabrication Technician?

AspectEtch Process TechnicianWafer Fabrication Technician
CredentialsAssociate degree or technical certification in semiconductor manufacturingAssociate degree or technical certification in electronics or semiconductor processes
Work EnvironmentCleanroom environment focused on etching processesCleanroom environment involved in various fabrication steps
Industry UsagePrimarily in semiconductor manufacturing plantsIn semiconductor fabs, covering multiple fabrication roles
Job FocusSpecialized in etching processes and equipmentBroader role including multiple fabrication tasks

While both roles operate in semiconductor manufacturing environments, the Etch Process Technician specializes in etching processes and equipment, whereas the Wafer Fabrication Technician handles a wider range of fabrication tasks across the production line.

What cities are hiring for Etch Process Technician jobs?

Cities with the most Etch Process Technician job openings:

What states have the most Etch Process Technician jobs?

States with the most job openings for Etch Process Technician jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Etch Process Technician jobs?

For Etch Process Technician jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Etch Process Technician job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,319 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

DRY ETCH PROCESS DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER (WRITER) (49916)

Milpitas, CA • On-site

Headway Technologies
Manufacturing • 501 - 1,000 employees

$96K - $142K/yr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Details

Job DetailsJob Location: Milipitas, CA 95035Position Type: Full TimeEducation Level: 4 Year DegreeSalary Range: $96,656.00 - $142,000.00 Salary/year

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 is responsible for the developing and implementing new RIE, IBE, 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*
QualificationsMINIMUM 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.

#J-18808-Ljbffr