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Plasma Etch Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dry Etch Engineering Manager

Marcy, NY · On-site

$134K - $185K/yr

This position is responsible for overseeing the Engineering team supporting the plasma etch module. This person will sustain and develop etch processes and equipment to provide consistent device ...

Strong command of plasma etch fundamentals, including plasma generation, plasma-surface interactions, selectivity, profile control, and defect mechanisms * Demonstrated record of delivering dry etch ...

This position is responsible for overseeing the Engineering team supporting the plasma etch module. This person will sustain and develop etch processes and equipment to provide consistent device ...

Strong command of plasma etch fundamentals, including plasma generation, plasma-surface interactions, selectivity, profile control, and defect mechanisms * Demonstrated record of delivering dry etch ...

Strong command of plasma etch fundamentals, including plasma generation, plasma-surface interactions, selectivity, profile control, and defect mechanisms * Demonstrated record of delivering dry etch ...

Strong command of plasma etch fundamentals, including plasma generation, plasma-surface interactions, selectivity, profile control, and defect mechanisms * Demonstrated record of delivering dry etch ...

Strong command of plasma etch fundamentals, including plasma generation, plasma-surface interactions, selectivity, profile control, and defect mechanisms * Demonstrated record of delivering dry etch ...

Strong command of plasma etch fundamentals, including plasma generation, plasma-surface interactions, selectivity, profile control, and defect mechanisms * Demonstrated record of delivering dry etch ...

Strong command of plasma etch fundamentals, including plasma generation, plasma-surface interactions, selectivity, profile control, and defect mechanisms * Demonstrated record of delivering dry etch ...

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Plasma Etch information

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How much do plasma etch jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for plasma etch in the United States is $21.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are plasma etch technicians?

Plasma etch technicians are specialized professionals who operate and maintain plasma etching equipment used in the manufacturing of semiconductors and microelectronic devices. They set up machines that use plasma—a highly energized gas—to precisely remove materials from silicon wafers, creating intricate patterns required for electronic circuits. Their responsibilities include monitoring processes, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring the quality and consistency of etched products. Plasma etch technicians typically work in cleanroom environments and must follow strict safety and cleanliness protocols.

What are some common challenges faced by plasma etch technicians, and how can they be addressed?

Plasma etch technicians often encounter challenges such as maintaining process consistency, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. Variations in materials or equipment performance can affect etch results, requiring careful monitoring and documentation. Effective communication with process engineers and maintenance teams is crucial for resolving issues quickly. Continuous training and attention to detail help technicians stay current with evolving technologies and best practices in semiconductor manufacturing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Plasma Etch Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Plasma Etch Technician, you need a background in semiconductor manufacturing, attention to detail, and knowledge of vacuum and plasma processes, typically supported by an associate's degree or relevant technical training. Familiarity with plasma etching tools (such as RIE and ICP systems), cleanroom protocols, and statistical process control software is essential. Problem-solving, teamwork, and strong communication skills help you identify and resolve process issues while collaborating with engineers and other technicians. These abilities are crucial for maintaining high-quality production, minimizing defects, and ensuring efficient operation in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

What is the difference between Plasma Etch vs Plasma Technician?

AspectPlasma EtchPlasma Technician
CredentialsTechnical certifications, associate degree often preferredTechnical certifications, associate degree often required
Work EnvironmentCleanroom, semiconductor manufacturing facilitiesCleanroom, semiconductor or electronics manufacturing facilities
Job FocusOperating plasma etching equipment to pattern materialsMaintaining, troubleshooting plasma etching equipment and processes
Industry UsageSemiconductor, electronics, nanotechnologySemiconductor, electronics, research labs

Both roles involve working with plasma etching equipment in high-tech manufacturing environments. Plasma Etch specialists primarily focus on executing etching processes, while Plasma Technicians handle maintenance, troubleshooting, and ensuring equipment performance. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the semiconductor industry.

More about Plasma Etch jobs
What states have the most Plasma Etch jobs? States with the most job openings for Plasma Etch jobs include:
Infographic showing various Plasma Etch job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $44,624 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

DRY ETCH PROCESS DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER (WRITER) (49916)

TDK Headway Technologies Inc.

Milpitas, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 hours ago


Job description

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, IBD, 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*

MINIMUM 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.