Equipment Engineer – Wet Engineer

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Own and maintain wet process equipment including wet etch systems, solvent spray/lift-off tools, spray acid tools, spin rinse dryers, and CMP/polisher systems
• Work with EHS and Safety teams to ensure safe operating measures, chemical handling protocols, and equipment safeguards are implemented and maintained.
• Collaborate with Process Engineers to support new process development, tool characterization, and data-driven improvement initiatives.
• Partner with Operations to understand production priorities, provide tool status updates in daily operations meetings, and develop recovery and maintenance plans.
• Identify and implement process and equipment improvements that yield safer, higher-quality, and more efficient operations with improved uptime.
• Develop and execute preventive maintenance programs to minimize unplanned downtime and improve tool reliability.
• Lead and mentor technicians on complex tool troubleshooting, PM execution, and documentation practices.
• Support capital projects and work closely with facilities and construction teams to plan and execute new tool installations, upgrades, and relocations.
• Identify, procure, and maintain critical spares lists to support sustained uptime.
• Build and maintain vendor relationships for technical support, spare parts, and capability enhancements.
• Develop and maintain project schedules, ensuring work is completed on time and within scope.
• Provide timely communication to management on tool performance, project progress, and any potential risks.
• Participate in root cause analysis (5Y, 8D) and drive corrective and preventive actions to closure.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives aligned with site-wide manufacturing and quality objectives.
• Travel domestically or internationally as required for tool installations, upgrades, or vendor training.
• Carry company-issued communication devices to provide 24/7 factory support as needed.

Education & Experience

Preferred Minimum Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Electronics, or related field preferred.
• Equivalent semiconductor experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.

Expected Minimum Years of Related Experience

• 5+ of experience working on wet process or related semiconductor equipment.

Preferred Equipment Experience:

• Spin Rinse Dryers (SRDs), Wet Benches, Solvent Spray/Lift-Off Systems, Spray Acid Tools, CMP Polishers, and related support systems.

Skills

• Strong understanding of chemical process safety and safe work practices with acids, solvents, and chemical delivery systems.
• Proficient in reading mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic schematics and interpreting process flow diagrams.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex tool issues to root cause and implement sustainable solutions.
• Knowledge of vacuum and pump systems, fluid delivery, filtration, and temperature control subsystems.
• Experienced with preventive maintenance program development and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Competent in data analysis and statistical process control (SPC) techniques.
• Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills—able to balance multiple priorities effectively.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and familiar with maintenance tracking systems (e.g., Camstar or equivalent).
• Ability to lead by example and mentor technicians in technical skill development and professional growth.
• Self-motivated, dependable, and capable of working independently or in a collaborative cross-functional team.

Working Conditions

• Work primarily in a Class 100/1000 cleanroom environment ~ 80%.
• Wear full cleanroom attire and comply with all safety and contamination control protocols.
• Work with and/or around hazardous and non-hazardous chemicals and gases.
• Stand for extended periods; lift up to 50 pounds or push/pull up to 150 pounds.
• Ability to work flexible schedules to support a 24/7 manufacturing environment.

Physical Requirements

• Work prima