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Fab Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Define, establish, and maintain technical interfaces between Fab software and adjacent systems ... Represent engineering in planning discussions with product and cross-functional stakeholders ...

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 ...

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 ...

Semi Mfg Technician 2

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $30/hr

... fab, where your expertise will help establish robust processes, achieve on-time delivery goals, and drive Nokia's technology leadership forward. You will collaborate closely with engineers ...

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 41-60

Fab Engineer information

See California salary details

$37K

$86.2K

$138.2K

How much do fab engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 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 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.

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 are popular job titles related to Fab Engineer jobs in California?

For Fab Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Fab Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,153 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Wafer Fab Operator - All Shifts (44165)

TDK Headway Technologies Inc.

Milpitas, CA

$20 - $27.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

TITLE:                        WAFER FAB OPERATOR

FLSA STATUS:          NON-EXEMPT

ALL SHIFTS:             A, B, C, & D

A: MONDAY THRU WEDNESDAY AND EVERY OTHER THURSDAY 6:00 AM-6:00 PM

B: MONDAY THRU WEDNESDAY AND EVERY OTHER THURSDAY 6:00 PM-6:00 AM

C: FRIDAY THRU SUNDAY AND EVERY OTHER THURSDAY 6:00 AM-6:00 PM

D: FRIDAY THRU SUNDAY AND EVERY OTHER THURSDAY 6:00 PM-6:00 AM

E: MONDAY THRU WEDNESDAY AND EVERY OTHER THURSDAY 12:00 PM-12:00 AM (Training Only)

F: FRIDAY THRU SUNDAY AND EVERY OTHER THURSDAY 12:00 PM-12:00 AM (Training Only)

REPORTS TO:          PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR

SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Production Supervisor, the Wafer Fab Operator is responsible for dispositioning wafers through the various steps of the semiconductor wafer manufacturing production process, including the photolithography, plating, polish, and vacuum areas. The Wafer Fab Operator is also responsible for recording data in the Work in Process (WIP) tracking system, analyzing data and reporting anomalies, and learning, understanding, and adhering to established Manufacturing Engineering Instructions (MPI’s); learning and achieving certification on various assigned tools or operations; and supporting continuous improvement activities for productivity, yield enhancement, and scrap reduction. This position is located in Milpitas, California.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Dispositions wafers through the semiconductor wafer manufacturing production process, including the photolithography, plating, polish, and vacuum areas
  • Records data in the WIP tracking system
  • Analyzes data and reports anomalies to Production Supervisor if needed
  • Learns, understands, and adheres to established MPI’s for assigned area
  • Learns, achieves, and maintains required certifications on assigned tools or operational area
  • Supports continuous improvement initiatives in the areas of productivity, yield enhancement, and scrap reduction
  • Responds to inquiries from other team members, managers, or departments
  • Adheres to all safety policies and procedures as required
  • Must be able to walk for long periods of time pushing a cart between clean aisles as required
  • *Performs other duties of a similar nature or level

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • One year of experience working as an Operator or Assembler in a high-volume manufacturing environment preferably in the semiconductor or electronics industry
  • Strong experience using microscopes, small hand tools, or manufacturing tools/equipment
  • Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Applications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Knowledge of semiconductor or high-volume manufacturing processes, practices, and techniques
  • Knowledge and ability to use various types of microscopes, small hand tools, and/or manufacturing equipment
  • Knowledge and ability to use Microsoft Office applications to create spreadsheets and Word documents
  • Able to enter various types of data into a tracking application on a routine basis
  • Able to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with all levels of employees and management
  • Able to understand and follow complex directions whether given verbally or in writing
  • Able to comply with all safety policies and procedures
  • Able to walk for long periods of time pushing a cart between clean aisles
  • Demonstrated organizational and time management skills
  • Demonstrated problem-solving and trouble shooting skills
  • Flexible and able to prioritize
  • Detail oriented and conscientious

The hourly rate for this full-time position is between $20.00-$27.50 + 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 hourly pay range shown is subject to change and may be modified periodically.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

The Wafer Fab Operator works in a class 100 ESD sensitive wafer manufacturing facility on a rotating schedule (A, B, C, D - E & F Shifts for training only) wears a cleanroom (bunny) suit, including hood, gloves, safety glasses, booties, and mask.  May be exposed to hazardous conditions, chemicals, fumes, and/or gases during the course of workday; may be exposed to loud noise. Schedule may be altered from time-to-time to suit operational needs. 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 be required to sit, stand, or walk for long periods of time, closely observe items through a microscope, and perform repetitive grasping motions; uses a variety of small hand tools to perform various operations. May be exposed to high-volume noise and/or hazardous materials such as chemicals or particulate matter. May occasionally be required to push, pull, or lift up to 30 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.