Semiconductor technicians are in high demand as the semiconductor industry continues to grow. As a semiconductor technician, you can expect to earn a good salary and have plenty of opportunities for advancement.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about being a semiconductor manufacturing technician, from job duties and responsibilities to salary and career outlook. With the right education and training, semiconductor technicians can enjoy good job prospects and a fulfilling career in semiconductor manufacturing.
What Does a Semiconductor Technician Do?
A semiconductor technician is responsible for the manufacturing of precision electronic parts and devices. Semiconductor technicians work in cleanrooms and are responsible for a variety of tasks, including operating machines that fabricate and test semiconductor devices, inspecting products for defects, and packaging finished products.
To be a successful semiconductor technician, you will need to have strong attention to detail and be able to work in a fast-paced environment. You will also need to be comfortable working with small objects and have good hand-eye coordination.
Semiconductor technicians must have a deep understanding of manufacturing processes and be able to troubleshoot problems that arise during production. Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work well under pressure are also must-haves. You must also be able to follow instructions carefully and adhere to strict safety protocols.
Qualifications for a Semiconductor Technician
A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required to become a semiconductor technician. Some jobs may require postsecondary education, such as an Associate’s degree in electronics technology. Many employers also require at least one year of experience working in a semiconductor manufacturing facility.
Hard skills that semiconductor manufacturing technicians need include experience with semiconductor manufacturing equipment, knowledge of semiconductor manufacturing processes, and experience with quality control procedures.
Soft skills that are important for success in this role include strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and the ability to work well under pressure.
Semiconductor technicians must have strong math skills and be able to use computer-aided design (CAD) software. They also need to be able to communicate effectively and work well as part of a team.
Job Outlook for Semiconductor Technicians in the U.S.
Overall employment of electronics and electrical engineers is expected to rise by 7% from 2020 to 2030. The highest concentration of semiconductor technician jobs is in the semiconductor and electronic component manufacturing sector, where around 22,000 are employed as of May 2021. This growth is due in part to the increasing demand for semiconductor devices, such as smartphones, laptops, and smart appliances.
The states with the highest employment levels for semiconductor technicians are California, Texas, Oregon, Arizona, and New York. However, there are plenty of opportunities for semiconductor technicians across the country.
Semiconductor Technician Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for semiconductor technicians in the United States is $45,910 as of May 2021, ranging from $29,830 per year to $72,260.
Factors that can affect a semiconductor technician’s salary are experience, education, certifications, and location.
Arizona is reportedly the highest paying state for semiconductor technicians, logging a median annual pay of $57,870. Arizona is followed by Massachusetts ($56,750), Oregon ($51,250), California ($48,750), and New Mexico ($48,500).
Related Semiconductor Technician Careers
If you’re interested in a career as a semiconductor technician, you might also be interested in related careers, such as:
- Manufacturing engineer
- Process engineer
- Quality engineer
- Electrical engineer
- Materials engineer
These roles typically require a Bachelor’s degree, but some jobs may only require an Associate’s degree or vocational training.
The typical career path for a semiconductor manufacturing technician is to start out as a semiconductor manufacturing associate or trainee. With experience, you can move up to a higher-level position, such as a process engineer or quality engineer.
Where To Find Semiconductor Technician Jobs
The best place to find semiconductor technician jobs is through job postings online. There are many websites that list semiconductor technician jobs, such as Indeed, Monster, and TruPath.
You can also search for semiconductor technician jobs on job boards specific to your industry or field or check out local listings in your area.
To find semiconductor technician jobs through TruPath, visit our website and search for “semiconductor technician” in the job openings section. You can also submit your resume to be matched with open positions. TruPath specializes in manufacturing sector placements and lists hundreds of available roles in the industry at all levels.
Check out semiconductor technician jobs on TruPath today!