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Semiconductor Engineering Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

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Semiconductor Engineering information

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$43.4K

$62.7K

$79.2K

How much do semiconductor engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for semiconductor engineering in Houston, TX is $62,734.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,100.00 and $60,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is semiconductor engineering?

Semiconductor engineering is a specialized field focused on the design, development, and manufacturing of semiconductor devices, such as microchips and transistors, which are essential components in electronic devices. Engineers in this field work on creating and improving the materials, processes, and technologies used to produce integrated circuits and other semiconductor components. Their work is critical to advancements in computers, smartphones, automotive technology, and many other electronic systems. Semiconductor engineers often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to solve complex technical challenges and drive innovation in the electronics industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a semiconductor engineer?

To thrive as a Semiconductor Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, physics, and materials science, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with CAD tools, circuit simulation software, and semiconductor fabrication processes is essential, along with certifications like Six Sigma or IPC standards being advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills set outstanding candidates apart in this field. These competencies are crucial for designing reliable semiconductor devices, ensuring manufacturing efficiency, and driving innovation in a rapidly evolving industry.

What are some common challenges semiconductor engineers face when working on new chip designs?

Semiconductor engineers often encounter challenges such as managing the complexity of integrating millions or even billions of transistors on a single chip while ensuring performance, power efficiency, and manufacturability. Meeting tight project deadlines and rapidly evolving industry standards can also be demanding. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—including design, verification, and manufacturing engineers—is essential to identify and resolve issues early in the design cycle. Additionally, adapting to new process technologies and troubleshooting unexpected fabrication or performance problems are routine aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Semiconductor Engineering vs Electrical Engineering?

AspectSemiconductor EngineeringElectrical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Semiconductor, Electrical, or Electronics EngineeringBachelor's or higher in Electrical, Electronics, or Electrical Engineering
Work EnvironmentCleanrooms, labs, manufacturing facilities focused on chip design and fabricationOffices, labs, and field sites working on electrical systems, power, and circuitry
Industry UsagePrimarily in semiconductor manufacturing, chip design, and fabrication companiesBroadly used across power, electronics, telecommunications, and automation industries

Semiconductor Engineering specializes in designing, developing, and manufacturing semiconductor devices and integrated circuits, often within cleanroom environments. Electrical Engineering covers a wider range of electrical systems, power distribution, and circuitry across various industries. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Semiconductor Engineering focuses specifically on chip technology and fabrication processes, making it a more specialized field within the broader electrical engineering domain.

Are semiconductor engineers paid well?

Semiconductor engineers typically earn competitive salaries due to the specialized skills required, such as knowledge of chip design, fabrication processes, and electronic testing. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and education, but overall, the role is considered well-compensated within the engineering field.

What do semiconductor engineers do?

Semiconductor engineers design, develop, and test semiconductor devices and integrated circuits used in electronic equipment. They work with materials, fabrication processes, and testing tools to improve chip performance and reliability, often requiring knowledge of physics, chemistry, and engineering software. Their work typically involves collaboration in labs or cleanroom environments and may require specialized certifications or training.

What are popular job titles related to Semiconductor Engineering jobs in Houston, TX?

For Semiconductor Engineering jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Semiconductor Engineering jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Semiconductor Engineering jobs in Houston, TX are:

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Semiconductor Engineering jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Semiconductor Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Semiconductor Engineering job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,734 per year, or $30.2 per hour.

MOCVD Engineer (Entry-Level)

Applied Optoelectronics Inc

Sugar Land, TX • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Summary
Applied Optoelectronics, Inc. is currently seeking a highly motivated entry-level MOCVD Engineers support the operation and optimization of Metal Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition (MOCVD) equipment used in the fabrication of compound semiconductor materials. This position provides an excellent opportunity for entry level candidates or early-career engineers to develop expertise in epitaxial growth, semiconductor manufacturing, process characterization, and production support while working alongside experienced engineering professionals.
Job Duties
  • Assist with the operation of MOCVD systems for epitaxial growth of compound semiconductor materials.
  • Monitor growth runs and collect process and characterization data.
  • Document growth parameters, characterization results, and production records.
  • Support quality control activities, yield monitoring, and process data analysis.
  • Assist in troubleshooting basic process and equipment issues under the guidance of senior engineers.
  • Support routine maintenance and preventive maintenance activities on MOCVD equipment.
  • Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and MOCVD safety protocols, including safe handling of hazardous materials and gases.
  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance process consistency, quality, and equipment performance.
  • Prepare technical reports and maintain accurate engineering documentation.
  • Collaborate with manufacturing, process engineering, and quality teams to support production objectives.

Job Requirements
  • 0-2 years of relevant experience in semiconductor manufacturing, research, internships, co-ops, or university laboratory work.
  • entry level candidates with relevant coursework and hands-on laboratory or research experience are encouraged to apply.
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Physics, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Semiconductor Engineering, or a related field.
  • Experience with commercial MOCVD equipment for semiconductor epitaxial growth.
  • Coursework or laboratory experience in one or more of the following:
  1. Semiconductor materials and devices
  2. Compound semiconductors
  3. Thin-film deposition
  4. Epitaxy
  5. Crystal growth
  6. Vacuum systems
  7. Semiconductor fabrication
  8. Materials characterization
  • Basic understanding of compound semiconductor materials such as InP or GaAs.
  • Familiarity with MOCVD, CVD, or related deposition processes through coursework, research, or laboratory experience is preferred.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to learn new processes and work effectively in a manufacturing environment.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Location
This position will be on-site based in Sugar Land, Texas.
WHY AOI?
  • Flexible and competitive health (medical, dental, vision) plans offer the employee with the right options to meet individual needs
  • Employer matching on 401(k) deferrals
  • Unused PTO payout at end of the year
  • Relocation package available within US
  • Immigration sponsorships (Must be currently authorized to work in the US)