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Microelectronics Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Microelectronic Technician 2

Manhattan Beach, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $24.50/hr

PROLIM (www.prolim.com) is currently seeking Microelectronic Technician 2 for one of our top Client for Location - Manhattan Beach, CA Qualified candidates can directly send your updated resume and ...

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Microelectronics information

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How much do microelectronics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for microelectronics in California is $15.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $16.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Microelectronics Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, semiconductor physics, and circuit design, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD tools for circuit layout, simulation software, and knowledge of industry standards such as VLSI and PCB design are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are essential for developing reliable, high-performance microelectronic devices and collaborating effectively in multidisciplinary teams.

What are microelectronics?

Microelectronics is a branch of electronics that deals with the design, development, and manufacture of very small electronic components and circuits. These tiny devices, such as microchips, transistors, and integrated circuits, are essential parts of modern electronic equipment like smartphones, computers, and medical devices. Professionals in this field work on creating smaller, faster, and more efficient electronic systems, often at the microscopic scale. The field combines principles from electrical engineering, materials science, and semiconductor physics.

What is the difference between Microelectronics vs Semiconductor Manufacturing Technician?

AspectMicroelectronicsSemiconductor Manufacturing Technician
Required CredentialsDegree in Electrical Engineering, Microelectronics, or related fieldAssociate or Bachelor’s in Electronics, Electrical Engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentCleanrooms, laboratories, design officesManufacturing floors, cleanrooms, assembly lines
Employer & Industry UsageElectronics companies, research institutions, design firmsSemiconductor fabrication plants, manufacturing companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in microelectronics design and developmentLearning about manufacturing processes for semiconductors

Microelectronics involves designing and developing tiny electronic components and circuits, often focusing on chip design and research. Semiconductor Manufacturing Technicians, on the other hand, work in the production process, assembling and maintaining semiconductor devices on manufacturing lines. While both roles are integral to the electronics industry, microelectronics emphasizes design and innovation, whereas semiconductor technicians focus on fabrication and production processes.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in microelectronics, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in microelectronics often encounter challenges such as keeping pace with rapid technological advancements, managing miniaturization constraints, and ensuring high reliability in complex circuit designs. Staying current through continual training and industry certifications is vital, as is collaborating closely with design, fabrication, and testing teams to resolve integration issues efficiently. Additionally, adopting a proactive approach to problem-solving and participating in cross-disciplinary projects can help expand your expertise and adaptability in this fast-evolving field.
What job categories do people searching Microelectronics jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Microelectronics jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Microelectronics jobs? Cities in California with the most Microelectronics job openings:
Infographic showing various Microelectronics job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,041 per year, or $15.9 per hour.
Director, Microelectronics

Director, Microelectronics

Design West Technologies, Inc.

Tustin, CA • On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

For more than a decade, Design West Technologies Inc. has served as a trusted partner to the Department of Defense (DoD), delivering mission-critical design engineering and rugged manufacturing solutions that protect our nation's warfighters. As we enter our next chapter, we are blending our deep-rooted defense heritage with a start-up culture designed to take advantage of the current DoD landscape. Operating out of our advanced facilities in Tustin, CA, we are seeking an ambitious, forward-thinking Director of Microelectronics to champion this cultural evolution and lead the aggressive scaling of our high-reliability Circuit Card Assembly (CCA) production. The successful candidate will spearhead our transition toward insourcing comprehensive bare board fabrication and drive increased throughput and production capacity.
While this position demands the speed, adaptability, and entrepreneurship of a tech start-up, it requires uncompromising adherence to rigorous military standards and traditional defense contracting compliance. The Director will ensure all microelectronics operations strictly conform to AS9100, ISO 9001, ITAR regulations, and NIST protocols, maintaining the secure supply chain environments and cleanroom certifications essential for defense-grade hardware. Candidates must possess a proven track record of leadership, ability to inspire, problem-solve and have an inherent desire to build.
Key Responsibilities
  • Secure Operations Management: Oversee all SMT and through-hole production while strictly enforcing ITAR controls and data security policies on the manufacturing floor.
  • High-Reliability Leadership: Build and direct highly vetted team of engineers and technicians, ensuring 100% adherence to IPC-A-610 Class 3 (Aerospace and Military) standards.
  • Budget & P&L Ownership: Manage capital expenditure and operational budgets, optimizing yield rates for complex, low-volume, high-mix defense contracts.
  • AS9100 Compliance: Serve as the executive authority for AS9100 aerospace quality management systems, leading regulatory audits and ensuring complete component traceability.
  • Defense Client Relations: Be the face of microelectronics and partner with program management, defense agencies and contractors while executing facility walk-throughs, technical reviews, production and product qualification phases.
  • Risk & Counterfeit Mitigation: Implement rigorous inspection processes to prevent the introduction of counterfeit components into the defense supply chain.

Qualifications
  • U.S. Security Clearance: Must possess U.S. Security Clearance or be capable of obtaining and maintaining a U.S. Department of Defense Security Clearance.
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical discipline. Master's degree or MBA preferred.
  • Experience: Minimum of 10+ years of manufacturing leadership experience specifically within a defense contractor or aerospace electronics environment.
  • Regulatory Expertise: Deep, verifiable experience managing operations under ITAR regulations and AS9100 quality systems.
  • Technical Standards: Mastery of IPC-A-610 Class 3, J-STD-001 Space Addendum, and automated testing protocols (e.g., X-ray, flying probe, functional testing).

Why Join Us?
You'll have the opportunity to make a direct impact by protecting the infrastructure that supports mission-critical defense programs. Working alongside talented engineers and technology professionals, you'll help strengthen our cybersecurity posture, support regulatory compliance, and contribute to innovative solutions that protect those who protect us. EEO employer including veterans & individuals with disabilities.