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Semiconductor Research Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

PDF Solutions

Semiconductor R&D Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

We are seeking an R&D engineer with a strong experimental-science background to advance eProbe semiconductor inspection tools through hands-on characterization, data analysis, and algorithm ...

PDF Solutions

Semiconductor R&D Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

We are seeking an R&D engineer with a strong experimental-science background to advance eProbe semiconductor inspection tools through hands-on characterization, data analysis, and algorithm ...

Vishay

R&D Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

Apply semiconductor device physics to analyze and optimize key performance parameters and ... Hands-on R&D and experimental mindset * Data-driven and structured problem solving * Design of ...

Biopharma Careers

EHS Senior Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

San Jose, California Your Role Senior EHS Manager for a cutting-edge semiconductor R&D environment undergoing infrastructure upgrades. You are the primary EHS authority, integrating EHS ...

Acara Solutions

Process Technician 3

Fremont, CA · On-site

$38.32/hr

Join a leading semiconductor R&D organization where you'll play a critical role in supporting process development, engineering experiments, and new product evaluation. As a Process Technician 3, you ...

Acara Solutions

Process Technician 3

Fremont, CA

$38.32/hr

Join a leading semiconductor R&D organization where you'll play a critical role in supporting process development, engineering experiments, and new product evaluation. As a Process Technician 3, you ...

Merck Group

EHS Senior Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

$144K - $216K/yr

Your Role Senior EHS Manager for a cutting-edge semiconductor R&D environment undergoing infrastructure upgrades. You are the primary EHS authority, integrating EHS considerations into operations ...

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How much do semiconductor research jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for semiconductor research in California is $21.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a semiconductor research?

A Semiconductor Research job involves studying and developing semiconductor materials, devices, and processes to improve performance and efficiency. Researchers in this field work on innovations in chip design, fabrication techniques, and new materials for applications in electronics, computing, and communications. They may collaborate with engineers and scientists to test and refine semiconductor technologies. The role often requires expertise in physics, material science, and electrical engineering.

What does a semiconductor research do?

Day-to-day responsibilities in Semiconductor Research typically include designing and conducting experiments, analyzing data on materials and device performance, and collaborating with engineers and scientists to develop new semiconductor technologies. You may also document findings, prepare technical reports, and present results to internal stakeholders or at conferences. Most roles involve using advanced laboratory equipment and simulation tools in a cleanroom or R&D environment. Collaboration across cross-functional teams is common, allowing you to contribute to innovative projects and stay at the forefront of industry advancements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in semiconductor research, and why are they important?

To thrive in Semiconductor Research, you need a deep understanding of physics, materials science, and electrical engineering, often supported by a relevant advanced degree such as a Master's or Ph.D. Experience with tools like semiconductor simulation software (e.g., TCAD), cleanroom environments, and familiarity with fabrication techniques is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and collaborative communication skills help individuals excel in multidisciplinary research teams. These abilities are essential for driving innovation, troubleshooting complex technical challenges, and advancing technology in a highly competitive industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Semiconductor Research jobs in California?

The most popular types of Semiconductor Research jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Semiconductor Research jobs in California?

For Semiconductor Research jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Semiconductor Research jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Semiconductor Research jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Semiconductor Research jobs?

Cities in California with the most Semiconductor Research job openings:

Semiconductor Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Semiconductor Research job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,616 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Semiconductor R&D Engineer

PDF Solutions, Inc.

Milpitas, CA • On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Other

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Overview

At PDF Solutions, we are at the forefront of revolutionizing the semiconductor industry. Our cutting‑edge technologies and data‑driven solutions empower semiconductor manufacturers to achieve unprecedented levels of efficiency, quality, and innovation. By joining our team, you'll have the opportunity to work with some of the brightest minds in the industry, tackle complex challenges, and contribute to groundbreaking advancements that shape the future of technology. Headquartered in Santa Clara, California, PDF Solutions also operates worldwide in Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan.


We are seeking an R&D engineer with a strong experimental‑science background to advance eProbe semiconductor inspection tools through hands‑on characterization, data analysis, and algorithm development. This is not an IT, infrastructure, or enterprise systems role. Work is hands‑on in the lab and analytical at the desk: scopes and tool logs one day, coding and algorithm design the next. You will collaborate with hardware, FPGA/firmware, software, and applications engineers, and present clear recommendations grounded in data and physical reasoning.


The ideal candidate has a Ph.D. (or equivalent research depth) in Physics, Applied Physics, or Materials Science, enjoys ambiguous R&D problems, designs clean experiments, and can drive an investigation from hypothesis through measured result to an implementable algorithm or process change.


Responsibilities

  • Design and execute experiments to characterize and improve semiconductor inspection tool performance

  • Investigate complex measurement‑system behavior using a first‑principles / physical‑reasoning approach

  • Develop and prototype algorithms in Python based on experimental data and engineering models

  • Analyze large technical datasets to quantify system behavior, uncertainty, and improvement opportunities

  • Translate R&D findings into clear recommendations for product, process, or algorithm changes

  • Document experimental methods and results for internal reuse and technical review

  • Present findings to cross‑functional teams; support customer‑facing technical discussions as needed

  • Partner with hardware, firmware, software, and applications engineering to validate ideas on real tools

  • Contribute to continuous improvement of characterization methods, analysis workflows, and tool capabilities

  • Help triage and root‑cause challenging technical issues that require experimental and analytical depth


Qualifications

  • PHD. in Physics, Applied Physics, Materials Science, or related field (strong research Master’s considered)

  • Proven ability to design original experiments, analyze data, and draw defensible conclusions

  • Strong intuition for measurement systems: noise, dynamics, stability, and systematic error

  • Hands‑on lab experience with precision instrumentation (oscilloscopes, cables, power)

  • Python for scientific computing and data analysis (NumPy, Pandas, plotting stack)

  • Ability to turn experimental data into models or algorithm prototypes

  • Strong oral and written communication skills


Nice to Have

  • Experience with electron microscopes (SEM, TEM) or other ebeam or semiconductor test equipment

  • Semiconductor process or cleanroom exposure

  • Signal or image processing for scientific / metrology data

  • MATLAB, Spotfire, Exensio, or similar analysis tools

  • Some exposure to HDL (Verilog, System Verilog, VHDL)


Pay Range

USD $120,000.00 - USD $180,000.00 /Yr.

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