1

Wet Etch Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Work closely with device engineers and integration teams to integrate wet etch processes into the overall semiconductor fabrication flow. * Establish and maintain SPC methodologies for process ...

Work closely with device engineers and integration teams to integrate wet etch processes into the overall semiconductor fabrication flow. * Establish and maintain SPC methodologies for process ...

As a Senior Wet Etch Process Engineer you will be primarily responsible for starting up, developing, and optimizing processes to improve product quality, driving process yield improvements, cost ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Wet Etch Engineer information

What is a wet etch engineer?

Wet Etch Engineers are professionals in the semiconductor industry who specialize in processes that use liquid chemicals to remove specific layers or materials from silicon wafers during microchip fabrication. They develop, monitor, and optimize wet etching processes to ensure precise patterning and high-quality device performance. Their role includes troubleshooting equipment, ensuring safety protocols, and collaborating with other engineers to improve manufacturing yield and efficiency. Wet Etch Engineers play a crucial part in producing advanced electronic devices such as microprocessors, memory chips, and sensors.

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

To thrive as a Wet Etch Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical engineering, materials science, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with semiconductor fabrication equipment, cleanroom protocols, and process control software is essential, along with knowledge of safety standards like SEMI S2. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you identify process issues and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These competencies are crucial for maintaining high-quality yields, ensuring safety, and driving process improvements in semiconductor manufacturing.

What are some common challenges faced by wet etch engineers during process optimization, and how are they typically addressed?

Wet Etch Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining process uniformity, managing particle contamination, and optimizing chemical usage while ensuring high yield and device reliability. These challenges are typically addressed by closely monitoring process parameters, collaborating with cross-functional teams (like Equipment and Quality Engineering), and implementing rigorous statistical process control. Continuous training and staying updated on new etching chemistries and equipment advancements also help engineers proactively solve these issues and maintain high standards in semiconductor fabrication.

What is the difference between Wet Etch Engineer vs Plasma Etch Engineer?

AspectWet Etch EngineerPlasma Etch Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in materials science, chemical engineering, or related fieldSimilar educational background, often with additional knowledge of plasma physics
Work EnvironmentCleanroom environments focused on chemical processingCleanroom environments with plasma equipment
Industry UsageUsed in semiconductor fabrication for material removalUsed for precise etching in semiconductor manufacturing
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared due to similar roles in etching processesRelated but involves different etching techniques

Both Wet Etch Engineers and Plasma Etch Engineers work in semiconductor fabrication, focusing on material removal processes. While they share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, Wet Etch Engineers specialize in chemical-based etching, whereas Plasma Etch Engineers utilize plasma technology for more precise etching. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job focus within the industry.

More about Wet Etch Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Wet Etch Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Wet Etch Engineer jobs are:

Infographic showing various Wet Etch Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Wet Etch Process Engineer

Coherent Corp.

Sherman, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description


Primary Duties & Responsibilities
  • Develop and optimize wet etch processes for VCSELs, photodiodes, and edge-emitting lasers on GaAs and InP substrates.
  • Define and control etch chemistry, etch rate, isotropic vs. anisotropic etching, selectivity, and undercut management to meet stringent device performance criteria.
  • Utilize metrology tools such as AFM, SEM, ellipsometry, profilometry, XPS, XRD, and optical interferometry for process characterization and defect analysis.
  • Troubleshoot etch process deviations, material compatibility issues, and surface roughness effects, implementing corrective actions to ensure high device yield and process stability.
  • Work closely with device engineers and integration teams to integrate wet etch processes into the overall semiconductor fabrication flow.
  • Establish and maintain SPC methodologies for process monitoring and continuous improvement.
  • Evaluate and qualify new wet etch chemistries, process automation techniques, and etch equipment to enhance process capabilities.
  • Develop and document etch process recipes, SOPs, failure analysis reports, and best practices for knowledge sharing and training.
  • Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership in wet etch process development for optoelectronic applications.

Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
  • 10+ years of hands-on experience in semiconductor wet etch process development, particularly for GaAs and InP-based optoelectronic devices.
  • Strong expertise in wet etch chemistry, selectivity optimization, surface roughness control, and etch stop layers.
  • Hands-on experience with metrology techniques such as SEM, AFM, ellipsometry, profilometry, XPS, and XRD for process verification and defect analysis.
  • Deep understanding of etching challenges for VCSELs, photodiodes, and EMLs, including precise mesa formation, sidewall passivation, and optical performance impact.
  • Proficiency in SPC, DOE, and data-driven process optimization.
  • Ability to work in a cleanroom environment and collaborate with cross-functional teams, including device engineers, production teams, and R&D groups.

Skills
  • Experience in high-volume semiconductor manufacturing or advanced R&D prototyping for optoelectronic devices.
  • Familiarity with chemical safety, fume hood operations, and waste disposal protocols for semiconductor wet etch processing.
  • Familiarity with automation (SECS/GEM), scripting, or AI-driven process control, including FDC and APC.
  • Demonstrated leadership in technical project management, process transfers, and mentoring junior engineers.

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.
About Us
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.