Equipment Engineer: Plasma / Dry Etch

Responsibilities

• Help drive a safe and high‑quality equipment team.
• Maintain effective communications between EES, process engineering, quality, test and manufacturing to ensure optimal tool availability.
• Drive improvements on existing equipment and process roadblocks using data‑driven methods.
• Influence and collaborate with colleagues, partners, and cross‑functional teams beyond direct reporting structures.
• Own and develop KPI and projects while collaborating with Process Engineers to improve existing and expand new development processes.
• Develop and implement preventative maintenance programs to ensure optimal equipment performance.
• Create new maintenance concepts to eliminate or reduce major equipment failures and extended downtime.
• Identify and correct chronic problem areas using on‑site and off‑site equipment expertise.
• Provide necessary data for decision making and work with equipment suppliers/vendors to improve tool capabilities.
• Assist in training and development of EES technicians to maintain a high level of expertise.
• Provide technical expertise and support for new equipment selection and tool sign‑off.
• Direct and manage the installation of new equipment.
• Develop, edit, and maintain preventive‑maintenance (PM) documents.
• Manage spare parts requirements for assigned tool sets.
• Drive equipment issues to root cause and implement corrective and preventive actions.
• Assist EES technicians with PMs and repairs as needed.
• Lead technicians on complex tool repairs, including action‑plan creation and hands‑on support until resolved.
• Provide timely updates on equipment status to management and via the Camstar system.
• Coordinate maintenance activities with the EES Manager and EES Technicians.
• Give directions to Equipment Technicians regarding daily priorities.
• Participate in 5‑Why and 8‑D analysis as needed.
• Travel domestically and internationally when required.
• Carry company‑provided cell phones and provide 24/7 factory support.

Requirements

• Minimum 4‑year college degree or military electronics certification (considered based on semiconductor experience).
• 8+ years experience working on wafer‑processing equipment or related fields.
• Maintenance knowledge of multiple equipment types (e.g., Lam Rainbow 4400/4420, Plasmatherm Etch, Oxford Deposition and Etch, LAPECVD, PVD, Matrix asher, Koyo vertical furnace, SPTS/KLA Sput, Evatec BAK).

Skills

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Ability to troubleshoot RF systems and understand component theory.
• Reading and interpreting electronic schematics, mechanical blueprints, pneumatic, vacuum, flow‑chart, cause‑effect, and hydraulic diagrams.
• Understanding of Etch, CVD, PVD, and furnace processes.
• Knowledge of SPC theory and implementation.
• Strong grasp of vacuum theory, various vacuum pumps (dry, cryo, turbo), sensors, pressure control devices, and MFCs.
• Ability to set up, operate, and interpret test equipment (oscilloscopes, DMMs, RGAs, high‑voltage probes, pressure/temperature gauges, dial indicators, RF meters, helium leak detector).
• Problem‑solving skills to troubleshoot to root cause and analyze data for continuous improvement.
• Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude.
• Self‑motivation and ability to organize daily work with minimal supervision.
• Strong communication and leadership skills, fostering servant‑leadership principles.
• Effective teamwork and interpersonal skills.

Working Conditions

Work in a Class 100/1000 clean room wearing full clean‑room attire. Exposure to chemicals (acids, solids) and gases (hazardous and non‑hazardous). Must be able to support a flexible schedule and a 24/7 operation.

Physical Requirements

• Stand for up to 10 hours at a time.
• Lift 50 lb or push/pull up to 150 lb.

Safety Requirements

All employees must follow site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. corporate EHS standards.

Quality and Environmental Responsibilities

Depending on location, the role may be responsible for execution and maintenance of ISO 9000, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and other applicable standards within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

Culture Commitment

• 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. Accommodations for disabilities can be requested via talentacquisition@coherent.com.

About Us

Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials, and networking components. As a vertically integrated manufacturing company, we develop innovative products for industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. We offer a comprehensive career development platform that challenges employees to perform at their best, rewarding excellence and hard work through a competitive compensation program. Join us for stability, longevity, and growth.