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Thin Films Process Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Characterize thin films using profilometry, four-point probe, ellipsometry, SEM, XRD, and AFM ... semiconductor process engineering experience. * Hands-on experience with sputtering (DC, RF ...

Process Engineer, Thin Films

Marcy, NY · On-site

$81K - $111K/yr

In this role you will develop, qualify, and optimize Thin Film processes within Wolfspeed's new state of the art, highly automated, Silicon Carbide Wafer Fab. The engineering team is expected to ...

Process Engineer, Thin Films

Marcy, NY · On-site

$70K - $97K/yr

In this role you will develop, qualify, and optimize Thin Film processes within Wolfspeed's new state of the art, highly automated, Silicon Carbide Wafer Fab. The engineering team is expected to ...

In this role you will develop, qualify, and optimize Thin Film processes within Wolfspeed's new state of the art, highly automated, Silicon Carbide Wafer Fab. The engineering team is expected to ...

In this role you will develop, qualify, and optimize Thin Film processes within Wolfspeed's new state of the art, highly automated, Silicon Carbide Wafer Fab. The engineering team is expected to ...

Senior Quality Engineer, Thin Films

Tamaqua, PA · On-site

$83K - $113K/yr

The Senior Quality Engineer, Thin Films will work to ensure excellence with thin films materials ... Ensure consistent, disciplined use of process-control tools and SPC reviews to uphold quality

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Thin Films Process Engineer information

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$49.5K

$92K

$142.5K

How much do thin films process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for thin films process engineer in the United States is $92,018.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,500.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Thin Films Process Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science or engineering, experience with thin film deposition techniques, and a relevant bachelor's or advanced degree. Familiarity with tools such as sputtering systems, chemical vapor deposition (CVD) equipment, and statistical process control software is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These competencies enable precise process optimization, ensure high-quality film production, and facilitate effective collaboration across engineering and manufacturing teams.

What does a Thin Films Process Engineer do?

A Thin Films Process Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and troubleshooting processes used to deposit thin layers of materials onto substrates, often for use in semiconductors, solar panels, or optical devices. They work with various deposition techniques such as physical vapor deposition (PVD), chemical vapor deposition (CVD), and atomic layer deposition (ALD) to achieve desired film properties. Their role involves process design, equipment maintenance, quality control, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to improve product performance and yield.

What is the difference between Thin Films Process Engineer vs Chemical Process Engineer?

AspectThin Films Process EngineerChemical Process Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field; certifications varyBachelor's or higher in Chemical Engineering; certifications may include PE license
Work EnvironmentCleanroom, semiconductor, or electronics manufacturing facilitiesChemical plants, manufacturing facilities, or research labs
Industry UsageSemiconductor, electronics, optics industriesPetrochemical, pharmaceuticals, chemical manufacturing
Job FocusDeveloping and optimizing thin film deposition processesDesigning and improving chemical production processes

The main difference between a Thin Films Process Engineer and a Chemical Process Engineer lies in their focus areas. Thin Films Process Engineers specialize in thin film deposition techniques used in electronics and semiconductor industries, while Chemical Process Engineers focus on chemical manufacturing and process optimization across various industries. Both roles require a background in chemical engineering principles, but their work environments and specific process expertise differ.

What are some common challenges faced by Thin Films Process Engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Thin Films Process Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining uniform film thickness, preventing contamination, and optimizing process parameters for different materials. These issues can typically be addressed by closely monitoring equipment, following strict cleanroom protocols, and collaborating with cross-functional teams like R&D and quality assurance to troubleshoot and refine deposition processes. Continuous learning and staying updated with new thin film technologies also help engineers effectively solve production problems and drive process improvements.
More about Thin Films Process Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Thin Films Process Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Thin Films Process Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Thin Films Process Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Thin Films Process Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Thin Films Process Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,018 per year, or $44.2 per hour.
Thin Films Process Engineer

Thin Films Process Engineer

Coherent

Sherman, TX

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

  • Develop, optimize, and maintain sputtering, evaporation, CVD, and RTA processes for metal and dielectric films.
  • Establish robust process windows and transfer new processes into production.
  • Support process integration, yield improvement, and new product development.
  • Serve as the process owner for sputtering, evaporation, CVD, and RTA equipment.
  • Troubleshoot process and equipment issues to improve reliability, uptime, and yield.
  • Support equipment qualifications, preventive maintenance, and continuous improvement activities.
  • Characterize thin films using profilometry, four-point probe, ellipsometry, SEM, XRD, and AFM.
  • Monitor film thickness, sheet resistance, stress, uniformity, adhesion, and surface morphology.
  • Utilize SPC, DOE, and statistical analysis to improve process capability and reduce variation.
  • Support recipe development, automated recipe download, and recipe verification.
  • Work with automation and equipment teams to maintain process limits, alarms, and fault detection systems.
  • Analyze equipment and process data to identify trends, prevent excursions, and improve manufacturing consistency.
  • Develop process documentation, work instructions, control plans, and FMEAs.
  • Support technology transfers, new equipment installations, and technician training.

Education & Experience

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field.
  • 5+ years of semiconductor process engineering experience.
  • Hands-on experience with sputtering (DC, RF, reactive), thermal and/or e-beam evaporation, CVD, and RTA systems.
  • Experience processing GaAs, InP, and/or silicon wafers.
  • Experience supporting semiconductor manufacturing in a high paced production environment.

Skills

  • Experience with thin-film metrology, including profilometry, four-point probe, ellipsometry, SEM, XRD, and AFM.
  • Experience measuring film thickness, sheet resistance, stress, uniformity, adhesion, and surface morphology.
  • Experience with manufacturing automation, recipe management, automated recipe download, and equipment data collection.
  • Familiarity with SPC, DOE, FDC, and statistical analysis tools such as JMP.
  • Strong troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and process optimization skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Working Conditions

  • Will be exposed to areas where hand tools and power tools are being operated
  • Will be exposed to areas where hazardous chemicals or gases are stored
  • Ability to work in a cleanroom environment per semi-conductor protocol/requirements

Physical Requirements

  • Work in a class 100/1000 clean room for extended periods
  • Wear full cleanroom attire (smock, mask, etc.)
  • Work with and/or around chemicals (such as solids and acids)
  • Stand for up to 4 hours at a time
  • Lift up to 16-30 Pounds 
  • Push/Pull up to 16-30 pounds
  • Sit for up to 4 hours at a time

Safety Requirements

All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.

Quality and Environmental Responsibilities

Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

Culture Commitment

Ensure adherence to company's values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:

Integrity - Create an Environment of Trust

Collaboration - Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas

Accountability - Own the Process and the Outcome

Respect - Recognize the Value in Everyone

Enthusiasm - Find a Sense of Purpose in Work


 

Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.


 

If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at talentacquisition@coherent.com.


 

Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!
Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.