1

Fab Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Indium phosphide lasers are engineered to emit at wavelengths that are optimal for long-distance ... Semiconductor Wafer Fab * Photolithography, Wet Etch, Dry Etch, Plating, Lapping, Polishing ...

Indium phosphide lasers are engineered to emit at wavelengths that are optimal for long-distance ... Semiconductor Wafer Fab * Photolithography, Wet Etch, Dry Etch, Plating, Lapping, Polishing ...

Indium phosphide lasers are engineered to emit at wavelengths that are optimal for long-distance ... Semiconductor Wafer Fab * Photolithography, Wet Etch, Dry Etch, Plating, Lapping, Polishing ...

Wafer Fab Equipment Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$113K - $151K/yr

As part of the Uncooled Detector (Focal Plane Array) Low-Rate Production team, the Wafer Fab Equipment Engineer will be responsible for the ownership, reliability, and continuous improvement of wafer ...

As part of the Uncooled Detector (Focal Plane Array) Low-Rate Production team, the Wafer Fab Equipment Engineer will be responsible for the ownership, reliability, and continuous improvement of wafer ...

You will collaborate closely with engineers, production teams, and fellow operators to ensure smooth ramp-up and sustained high performance. You have: * 2+ years of hands-on experience as a Wafer Fab ...

Wafer Fab Process Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$90K - $121K/yr

As part of the uncooled detector (focal plane array) research and development team, the successful candidate will have responsibility for engineering wafer fab processes including plasma etch, thin ...

You will collaborate closely with engineers, production teams, and fellow operators to ensure smooth ramp-up and sustained high performance. You have: * 2+ years of hands-on experience as a Wafer Fab ...

Showing results 21-40

Fab Engineer information

See California salary details

$37K

$86.2K

$138.2K

How much do fab engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for fab engineer in California is $86,153.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,000.00 and $94,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fab engineer?

To thrive as a Fab Engineer, a strong background in semiconductor physics, process engineering, and a relevant engineering degree (such as electrical, chemical, or materials engineering) is essential. Familiarity with semiconductor fabrication tools, cleanroom protocols, and statistical process control (SPC) systems is typically required, along with certifications like Six Sigma being advantageous. Excellent problem-solving, attention to detail, and teamwork skills help Fab Engineers address process issues and collaborate effectively across departments. These competencies are crucial for maintaining high yield, ensuring product quality, and driving innovation in the highly technical semiconductor manufacturing environment.

What are some typical challenges a fab engineer faces when working in a semiconductor fabrication facility?

Fab Engineers often work in fast-paced, highly controlled environments where precision is critical. Common challenges include troubleshooting equipment malfunctions quickly to minimize downtime, maintaining strict process controls to ensure product quality, and adapting to rapidly changing technology. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—such as process, equipment, and quality engineers—is essential to resolve issues efficiently. Staying updated on the latest advancements and continuously improving processes can also be both demanding and rewarding in this role.

What is the difference between Fab Engineer vs Semiconductor Process Engineer?

AspectFab EngineerSemiconductor Process Engineer
CredentialsTypically an associate's or bachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldUsually a bachelor's or master's degree in chemical, electrical, or materials engineering
Work EnvironmentManufacturing fabs, cleanrooms, production floorsResearch labs, production facilities, process development areas
Industry UsageCommonly employed in semiconductor manufacturing plantsFound in semiconductor companies focusing on process development and optimization
Job FocusOperating equipment, troubleshooting, maintaining production linesDeveloping, analyzing, and improving manufacturing processes

While both roles are integral to semiconductor manufacturing, Fab Engineers focus on daily operations and equipment maintenance within the fabrication plant, whereas Semiconductor Process Engineers concentrate on process development and optimization to improve product quality and efficiency.

What is a fab engineer?

Fab Engineers, short for Fabrication Engineers, are professionals who work in manufacturing environments, especially in semiconductor fabrication plants (fabs). They are responsible for overseeing and optimizing the processes used to manufacture microchips, integrated circuits, and other electronic components. Their duties include equipment maintenance, process improvement, troubleshooting, and ensuring product quality. Fab Engineers collaborate with other engineers and technicians to maintain efficient production and implement new technologies. They play a crucial role in ensuring that manufacturing runs smoothly and meets industry standards.
Infographic showing various Fab Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,153 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Wafer Fab Integration Engineering Technician (Weekend Day Shift)

Nokia

San Jose, CA

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Nokia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 97 rated telecommunications companies


Job description

Job Summary

Nokia's Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) wafer fabs in Sunnyvale and San Jose focus on the production and R&D of advanced Indium Phosphide (InP) semiconductor devices. As a Wafer Fab Integration Engineering Technician, you will play a critical role in supporting wafer fabrication processes, improving product quality, and reducing defects.

This position offers the opportunity to work closely with cross-functional engineering teams to troubleshoot complex process issues, enhance yield and reliability, and contribute to the ramp-up of a high-volume manufacturing facility in San Jose. You will be part of a collaborative environment that emphasizes teamwork, continuous learning, and cutting-edge semiconductor innovation.

Minimum Qualifications & Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Science, Engineering, or a related technical field

Minimum of 3 years of experience in a modern semiconductor fabrication environment (5+ years preferred)

Strong attention to detail with a high commitment to quality

Demonstrated problem-solving skills and ability to follow through on tasks

Self-motivated, with a willingness to learn and expand technical skills

Strong sense of ownership and accountability

Effective team player with strong verbal and written communication skills

Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize work, and meet deadlines

Proficiency in using computer systems and software tools for data analysis and reporting

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with Indium Phosphide (InP) or Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) semiconductor processes

Familiarity with wafer fab processes such as photolithography, etch, deposition, and CVD

Key Responsibilities

Investigate root causes for production lots placed on hold and drive corrective actions

Troubleshoot performance issues and yield excursions within the wafer fabrication process

Support engineering tool qualifications and process validations

Assist engineers with failure analysis, including:

o Visual inspections

o CD-SEM measurements

o Electrical IV testing

o Profilometry depth measurements

Utilize Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) to:

o Collect and track data

o Perform basic data analysis

o Generate reports (e.g., PowerPoint presentations)

Monitor Statistical Process Control (SPC) charts and provide first-level response to out-of-control conditions

Coordinate and track qualification and development lots across fabrication, assembly, and test operations

Ensure compliance with PIC product quality systems and standards

Support next-generation PIC platform development, including technology transfer and production ramp

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve process integration, yield, and device performance

Work Schedule: Weekend day shift - Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and every other Thursday from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM


What Nokia employees say

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom