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Wafer Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Nokia

Wafer Fab Supervisor

San Jose, CA

You will also support the initial startup of our new wafer fab facility, including the management of wafer fab operators between two manufacturing sites. Work shift: Shift 6 (6am - 6pm, Friday ...

Nokia

Wafer Fab Supervisor

San Jose, CA · On-site

$84K - $134K/yr

You will also support the initial startup of our new wafer fab facility, including the management of wafer fab operators between two manufacturing sites. Work shift: Shift 6 (6am - 6pm, Friday ...

Nokia

Semi Mfg Technician 2

Sunnyvale, CA

As a Wafer Fab Operator at Nokia's new wafer fabrication facility, you will play a pivotal role in launching and scaling our state-of-the-art production of cutting-edge integrated optical parts. You ...

Nokia

Semi Mfg Technician 2

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

As a Wafer Fab Operator at Nokia's new wafer fabrication facility, you will play a pivotal role in launching and scaling our state-of-the-art production of cutting-edge integrated optical parts. You ...

Nokia

Semi Mfg Technician 2

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$34K - $63K/yr

As a Wafer Fab Operator at Nokia's new wafer fabrication facility, you will play a pivotal role in launching and scaling our state-of-the-art production of cutting-edge integrated optical parts. You ...

Nokia

Semi Mfg Technician 2

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$34K - $63K/yr

As a Wafer Fab Operator at Nokia's new wafer fabrication facility, you will play a pivotal role in launching and scaling our state-of-the-art production of cutting-edge integrated optical parts. You ...

Nokia

Semi Mfg Technician 2

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$33K - $62K/yr

As a Wafer Fab Operator at Nokia's new wafer fabrication facility, you will play a pivotal role in launching and scaling our state-of-the-art production of cutting-edge integrated optical parts. You ...

Nokia

Semi Mfg Technician 2

Sunnyvale, CA

As a Wafer Fab Operator at Nokia's new wafer fabrication facility, you will play a pivotal role in launching and scaling our state-of-the-art production of cutting-edge integrated optical parts. You ...

Nokia

Semi Mfg Technician 2

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$34K - $63K/yr

As a Wafer Fab Operator at Nokia's new wafer fabrication facility, you will play a pivotal role in launching and scaling our state-of-the-art production of cutting-edge integrated optical parts. You ...

Nokia

Semi Mfg Technician 2

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

As a Wafer Fab Operator at Nokia's new wafer fabrication facility, you will play a pivotal role in launching and scaling our state-of-the-art production of cutting-edge integrated optical parts. You ...

Nokia

Principal Engineer - Wafer Fabrication

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$130K - $241K/yr

Develop and deploy control plans to keep photo-lithography processes operating within performance ... wafer and reticle handling and releasing more modern manufacturing tools for PIC wafers with ...

Nokia

Semi Mfg Technician 3

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$33K - $62K/yr

Job Family Description As a WFAB Operator at Nokia, you will be at the heart of our innovative wafer fabrication process, producing cutting-edge integrated optical parts that are essential to our ...

Nokia

Semi Mfg Technician 2

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$34K - $63K/yr

As a WFAB Operator at Nokia, you will be at the heart of our innovative wafer fabrication process, producing cutting-edge integrated optical parts that are essential to our products. You'll work ...

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All JobsWafer Operator JobsWafer Operator Jobs in California

Wafer Operator information

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$13

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$25

How much do wafer operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for wafer operator in California is $18.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs make $1,000,000 a year?

Wafer operators typically do not earn $1,000,000 annually; such high salaries are usually found in executive roles, successful entrepreneurs, or specialized professionals in finance, technology, or investment sectors. High earnings in manufacturing are rare and often involve executive positions or ownership stakes rather than operational roles like wafer operators.

Why are Gen Z struggling to find jobs?

Gen Z faces challenges in finding jobs like wafer operators due to high competition, limited experience, and the need for specific skills such as technical knowledge and certifications. Many entry-level manufacturing roles require on-the-job training and adherence to safety protocols, which can be barriers for new job seekers without prior experience.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Wafer operators typically do not earn $700 a day; their wages are usually lower and depend on experience and location. High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $700 daily often include specialized roles such as certain engineering, technical, or managerial positions, which may require advanced skills, certifications, or overtime. These roles are more common in industries like technology, engineering, or project management, often involving full-time employment or contract work with high skill demands.

What does a typical shift look like for a Wafer Operator in a semiconductor manufacturing facility?

As a Wafer Operator, your typical shift involves operating and monitoring various machines in a cleanroom environment, following strict protocols to ensure product quality and safety. You will regularly inspect wafers for defects, document production data, perform routine equipment maintenance, and collaborate closely with engineers and quality control specialists. Shifts may be structured on a rotating or fixed schedule, including nights or weekends, depending on the facility’s hours of operation. While the work requires adherence to precise procedures and cleanliness standards, there is also opportunity to develop technical skills and advance to more specialized roles within the semiconductor industry.

What is a Wafer Operator job?

A Wafer Operator is responsible for handling semiconductor wafers during the manufacturing process. They operate machinery, inspect wafers for defects, and ensure production runs smoothly in a cleanroom environment. The role requires attention to detail, adherence to safety protocols, and the ability to follow technical procedures. Wafer Operators play a key role in semiconductor fabrication, contributing to the production of microchips used in various electronic devices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Wafer Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Wafer Operator, you should have strong attention to detail, basic math skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring prior manufacturing or cleanroom experience. Familiarity with precision measuring instruments, semiconductor processing equipment, and cleanroom protocols is often required, and specialized safety or equipment certifications may be beneficial. Excellent teamwork, communication, and a focus on quality control are key soft skills for excelling in this role. These competencies ensure safe and efficient production of semiconductor wafers, minimize errors, and support high output quality in a fast-paced environment.

How much does a wafer fab operator make?

A wafer fab operator typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the manufacturing environment. Entry-level operators may start at lower wages, while experienced workers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. Overtime and shift differentials can also impact total compensation.
What are the most commonly searched types of Wafer Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Wafer Operator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Wafer Operator jobs in California? For Wafer Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Wafer Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Wafer Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Wafer Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Wafer Operator job openings:
Wafer Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wafer Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,330 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Cleanroom Wafer Operator - All Shifts

Skorpios Technologies

Temecula, CA • On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Skorpios Technologies, Inc. is seeking a Cleanroom Wafer Operator to join our growing team. In this role, you will focus on the following:
  • Process material in a fab operations cleanroom environment in an efficient manner in order to provide high-quality products
  • Execute qualifications on equipment and make sure output meets expectations
  • Operate tools which start processing cycles, load and unload chambers, and transport finished products
  • Move products to/from various tools to ensure specs are followed, which keep wafers moving in the Fab
  • Examine and measure materials and products for defects
  • Clean wafers and work areas using chemical baths and other equipment
  • Determine if a chip problem is due to contamination or a manufacturing flaw
  • Conduct quality control checks to ensure products meet safety and quality standards

Requirements
  • Must be 18 years old, with a High School Diploma (or equivalent)
  • 6+ months of experience in semiconductor environment; with cleanroom experience
  • Operate equipment and process/move products to meet safety, quality and production goals
  • Knowledge and/or experience with tool qualifications, process and equipment specifications
  • Tool knowledge is ideal in the following functions: CMP, photolithography, furnaces, metrology, wet/dry etch, etc.
  • Technicians work in cleanrooms to prevent contamination of the microchips. They wear lightweight garments called "bunny suits" to keep lint and other particles out of the clean room.
  • Ability to lift/move 10lbs repeatedly
  • Long time periods standing, and moving throughout a tool space
  • Must be able to work a 12 hour shift, on a rotating weekly schedule

Competencies
  • Effective working independently and within a team
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Demonstrates a willingness to learn
  • Flexible to business needs and effective with multitasking
  • Strong sense of urgency
  • Effective problem-solver

Supervisory Responsibilities
None
Work Environment
Roughly 90% of day is spent in the Fab, which a temperature-controlled cleanroom environment that requires the use of a full-body gown, over-boots, over-hood, safety glasses, and ESD equipment. Frequent gowning and de-gowning is required. Frequent interruptions, static noise, and alarms (auditory and flashing lights) can be expected.
Physical Demands
  • Constantly in a stationary position, often sitting and/or standing for prolonged periods
  • Frequently walking around the Fab for prolonged periods
  • Occasionally required to push and/or pull 40+ lbs objects, such as tool components
  • Frequently required to lift 40+ lbs and occasionally carry that amount short distances
  • Frequently required reach, bend, twist, squat, kneel, and stoop to access and work on tools in the Fab
  • May often require repetitive motions involving the wrists, hands, and/or fingers

Why Skorpios?
At Skorpios, you will be at the forefront of the silicon photonics revolution. We offer the chance to work on truly disruptive technology that is changing how the world connects. You will be part of a team where technical excellence is celebrated and where your contributions have a direct impact on the success of our next-generation product lines.
Skorpios offers an excellent benefits package which includes:
  • Competitive salary
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • 401(k)
  • Company paid Life Insurance
  • Company paid Disability
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Vacation
  • Gym Membership Discounts

Export Control / ITAR Statement: This position is located at a facility that operates under International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All applicants must be 'U.S. persons' within the meaning of ITAR. ITAR defines a 'U.S. person' as a U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (i.e., 'Green Card Holder'), Political Asylee, or Refugee.
Skorpios Technologies, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age (40 and over), physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, protected leave status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.
As a federal contractor, Skorpios Technologies, Inc. takes affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply.
Skorpios Technologies, Inc. is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at or AskHR@Skorpiosinc.com
Work Authorization/Security Clearance Requirements
Authorization may be required to release covered technology to employees who are not U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents, asylees, or refugees.
Compensation and Benefits
Skorpios embraces a Total Compensation philosophy that includes a base salary and eligibility for overtime for non-exempt roles.
We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support employee health, welfare, and retirement. Highlights include healthcare benefits, a 401(k) savings plan, and paid time off.
Expected salary range: $19-$20, depending on qualifications and experience.
The actual starting rate will be determined based on role-related criteria, including educational qualifications or equivalent experience, relevant work history, and the skills required for the role.
Salary Description
$19/hr - $20/hr

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