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Process Development Manager Jobs in San Jose, CA

Sr Process Development Engineer

Santa Clara, CA ยท On-site

$121K - $156K/yr

As the Sr Process Development Engineer, you will serve as the primary engineering personnel ... Will also serve as the engineering management representative in the manufacturing line, executing ...

Sr Process Development Engineer

Santa Clara, CA ยท On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

As the Sr Process Development Engineer, you will serve as the primary engineering personnel ... Will also serve as the engineering management representative in the manufacturing line, executing ...

Sr Process Development Engineer

Santa Clara, CA ยท On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

As the Sr Process Development Engineer, you will serve as the primary engineering personnel ... Will also serve as the engineering management representative in the manufacturing line, executing ...

Sr Process Development Engineer

Santa Clara, CA ยท On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

As the Sr Process Development Engineer, you will serve as the primary engineering personnel ... Will also serve as the engineering management representative in the manufacturing line, executing ...

Sr Process Development Engineer

Santa Clara, CA ยท On-site

$121K - $156K/yr

As the Sr Process Development Engineer, you will serve as the primary engineering personnel ... Will also serve as the engineering management representative in the manufacturing line, executing ...

Showing results 21-40

Process Development Manager information

See San Jose, CA salary details

$87.9K

$113K

$201K

How much do process development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for process development manager in San Jose, CA is $113,027.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,800.00 and $113,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a process development manager do?

A process development manager oversees the design, implementation, and optimization of manufacturing or operational processes to improve efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness. They analyze workflows, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and often utilize tools like Six Sigma or Lean methodologies to develop scalable processes. Strong project management and problem-solving skills are essential in this role.

What are some common challenges faced by a process development manager, and how can they be addressed?

Process Development Managers often encounter challenges such as aligning cross-functional teams, managing resource constraints, and adapting processes to evolving business needs. Effective communication and collaboration with stakeholders in production, quality, and R&D are essential to overcome these obstacles. Proactively identifying potential bottlenecks, staying updated with industry best practices, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement can help ensure smoother process development and implementation.

What is the difference between Process Development Manager vs Process Engineer?

AspectProcess Development ManagerProcess Engineer
ResponsibilitiesOversees process improvement projects, manages teams, develops strategies for scalable processesDesigns, tests, and implements specific manufacturing processes, focuses on technical execution
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, experience in process management, certifications like Six SigmaBachelor's in Engineering or related field, technical skills, certifications like Lean or Six Sigma
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles in manufacturing or R&D settings, cross-functional collaborationHands-on technical work in manufacturing or laboratory settings
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, biotech industriesWidely used in manufacturing, chemical, and industrial sectors

The Process Development Manager focuses on strategic oversight and team leadership for process improvements, while the Process Engineer handles technical process design and implementation. Both roles require similar credentials and are integral to manufacturing industries, but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a process development manager?

To thrive as a Process Development Manager, you need a solid background in process engineering, project management, and analytical problem-solving, typically supported by a degree in engineering, chemistry, or a related field. Familiarity with process simulation software, Lean Six Sigma methodologies, and quality management systems like ISO standards is commonly required. Strong leadership, communication, and change management skills help drive cross-functional collaboration and successful project implementation. These competencies are crucial for optimizing processes, ensuring product quality, and achieving operational efficiency in a competitive business environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Process Development jobs in San Jose, CA? The most popular types of Process Development jobs in San Jose, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Process Development Manager jobs in San Jose, CA? For Process Development Manager jobs in San Jose, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near San Jose, CA are hiring for Process Development Manager jobs? Cities near San Jose, CA with the most Process Development Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Process Development Manager job openings in San Jose, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,027 per year, or $54.3 per hour.

Dry Etch Process Development Engineer (42024)

TDK Headway Technologies Inc.

Milpitas, CA โ€ข On-site

$120K - $177K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

TITLE: DRY ETCH PROCESS DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER
FLSA STATUS: EXEMPT
REPORTS TO: DIRECTOR, DRY ETCH PROCESS DEVELOPMENT
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
  • One to three years of experience working in the magnetic recording head, hard disk drive, or semiconductor industry in dry etch process development
  • 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 Reactive Ion Etching (RIE), IBE, and Ashing 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 Microsoft Office applications to create spreadsheets, Word documents, and presentations
  • Knowledge and ability to use Statistical Process Control (SPC) to analyze data, create reports, present findings, and recommend appropriate action
  • 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 $120,819.00-$177,675.00 + 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 Process Development 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 site-to-site 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.