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Microfabrication Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Microfabrication Team, a division of the Brain Interfaces Hardware Department, designs, manufactures, and verifies the thin-film microelectrode array that records and relays neural signals to the ...

Microfabrication Engineer (R&D)

Fremont, CA · On-site

$81K - $209K/yr

The Microfabrication Team, a division of the Brain Interfaces Hardware Department, designs, manufactures, and verifies the thin-film microelectrode array that records and relays neural signals to the ...

The Microfabrication Team, a division of the Brain Interfaces Hardware Department, designs, manufactures, and verifies the thin-film microelectrode array that records and relays neural signals to the ...

Be Seen First

As our Microfabrication & Microfluidics Engineer, you will lead the design, fabrication and integration of next-generation microsystems including micro/nano fluidics and on-chip sensors. You will ...

Be Seen First

As our Microfabrication & Microfluidics Engineer, you will lead the design, fabrication and integration of next-generation microsystems including micro/nano fluidics and on-chip sensors. You will ...

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Microfabrication information

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$13

$58

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How much do microfabrication jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for microfabrication in the United States is $58.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.90 and $66.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Microfabrication vs Semiconductor Process Engineer?

AspectMicrofabricationSemiconductor Process Engineer
CredentialsTechnical degrees in engineering, physics, or materials scienceEngineering degrees, often with specialized semiconductor training
Work EnvironmentCleanrooms, laboratories, manufacturing facilitiesCleanrooms, production lines, R&D labs
Industry UsageMicroelectronics, MEMS, nanotechnologySemiconductor manufacturing, chip fabrication
Job FocusFabrication processes, equipment operation, process developmentProcess optimization, yield improvement, process troubleshooting

Microfabrication and Semiconductor Process Engineers both work in cleanroom environments within the semiconductor industry. While microfabrication focuses on developing and operating processes for creating micro and nanoscale devices, semiconductor process engineers concentrate on optimizing and troubleshooting manufacturing processes for semiconductor chips. Both roles require similar technical skills and collaborate closely in chip production.

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

Professionals in microfabrication often encounter challenges related to maintaining cleanroom standards, dealing with the precision required for nanoscale features, and troubleshooting process inconsistencies. Contamination control is critical, so strict adherence to protocols and regular equipment maintenance are essential. Collaboration with cross-functional teams such as design and quality assurance can help quickly resolve issues. Staying up-to-date with the latest fabrication techniques and participating in professional development can also help address evolving challenges in this fast-paced field.

What is microfabrication?

Microfabrication is the process of designing and manufacturing extremely small structures and devices, typically at the micrometer or nanometer scale. It is widely used in industries such as semiconductor manufacturing, MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems), and biotechnology for creating integrated circuits, sensors, and other miniature components. Techniques like photolithography, etching, and deposition are commonly employed in microfabrication to achieve precise patterns and features. This field is essential for advancing technology in electronics, medical devices, and scientific instrumentation.

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

To thrive as a Microfabrication Engineer, you need strong knowledge of semiconductor processing, materials science, and cleanroom protocols, typically supported by a degree in engineering or physics. Familiarity with tools like photolithography, etching systems, and CAD software, as well as certifications in cleanroom safety, are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and teamwork are essential soft skills for managing intricate fabrication processes and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure precision, process efficiency, and innovation in producing advanced micro-scale devices.
More about Microfabrication jobs
What cities are hiring for Microfabrication jobs? Cities with the most Microfabrication job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Microfabrication jobs? The most popular types of Microfabrication jobs are:
What states have the most Microfabrication jobs? States with the most job openings for Microfabrication jobs include:
Infographic showing various Microfabrication job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 96% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,374 per year, or $58.4 per hour.
Microfabrication Engineer

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Job Description
Microfabrication Engineer
Job Description
The Microfabrication Engineer shall serve as a hands-on technical specialist supporting the development, optimization, and sustainment of microfabrication processes for MEMS devices and advanced spaceflight instrumentation within NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) laboratories. The engineer will apply expertise in semiconductor fabrication techniques to enable the production and integration of high-reliability micro-scale devices used in space and scientific missions.
The candidate will operate within a cleanroom environment and collaborate closely with design engineers, systems engineers, and test personnel to translate device requirements into robust fabrication processes. Responsibilities include executing and refining photolithography workflows, thin-film deposition processes, and etching techniques while ensuring consistency, repeatability, and compliance with established process controls.
The engineer will troubleshoot fabrication issues, perform root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions to improve device yield and performance. Responsibilities include conducting process characterization using metrology tools such as optical and electron microscopy, ellipsometry, and electrical test equipment, and interpreting data to support process optimization.
The role includes development and documentation of fabrication procedures, process flows, and technical reports in accordance with NASA and industry standards. The engineer will support process integration efforts, contribute to Design of Experiments (DOE) activities, and provide clear technical assessments to project teams and laboratory management.
The candidate will support ongoing laboratory operations, including adherence to cleanroom protocols, equipment usage, and safety standards. Participation in multidisciplinary teams and contributions to continuous process improvement initiatives are expected. Limited support for external collaborators or project reviews may be required.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or a related technical discipline.
  • Minimum 3 years of demonstrated hands-on experience in semiconductor, MEMS, or microfabrication environments.
  • Demonstrated expertise in photolithography processes, including photoresist application, exposure systems (mask aligners, steppers, or e-beam lithography), and pattern development.
  • Experience with thin-film deposition techniques, including PVD, CVD/PECVD, thermal oxidation, and ALD.
  • Proficiency in etching techniques, including wet chemical etching, RIE, DRIE, and vapor phase etching.
  • Experience operating metrology and characterization equipment including microscopy, ellipsometry, and electrical probing.
  • Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot fabrication processes and perform root cause analysis.
  • Ability to work independently and effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
  • Strong organizational and documentation skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • US Citizenship or lawful permanent US residency required.
Desired Qualifications
  • Master’s or PhD in a relevant engineering or scientific discipline.
  • Experience working in Class 10–1000 cleanroom environments.
  • Familiarity with MEMS device design principles and fabrication challenges.
  • Experience with process integration and wafer-level fabrication workflows.
  • Knowledge and application of Design of Experiments (DOE) methodologies.
  • Prior experience supporting NASA, aerospace, or government laboratory environments.