Process Technician

Who We Are Applied Materials is the global leader in materials science and engineering solutions that are at the foundation of virtually every new semiconductor chip and advanced display in the world. The equipment that we create and service is essential to advancing AI and accelerating the commercialization of next-generation semiconductor chips. Join us and push the boundaries of materials science and engineering in a company at the foundation of the electronics industry. The work we do together advances the world’s technology.  What We Offer Salary: $29.00 - $39.60 Location: Santa Clara,CA You’ll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible—while learning every day in a supportive leading global company. Visit our Careers website to learn more.  At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We’re committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go. Learn more about our benefits .  As a Process Technician, you'll be responsible for preparing wafers for experimentation, operating reactors to perform thin film processes, and using scanning electron microscopes for analyses and imaging. You'll record process conditions and experimental observations, perform routine maintenance procedures, and evaluate wafers and thin films. Process Technicians are tasked with preparing cross-section samples for analysis, identifying patterns of interest in imaging, and operating laboratory process equipment and instrumentation. Your expertise in troubleshooting, equipment maintenance, and process optimization drives higher levels of productivity, quality, and efficiency in our manufacturing processes.   Position Summary   The FIB Technician is responsible for supporting semiconductor failure analysis, process development, and characterization activities through the preparation of high-quality samples using Focused Ion Beam (FIB), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) techniques. The individual will operate analytical and metrology equipment, maintain laboratory productivity, support engineering investigations, and ensure compliance with safety and operating procedures.   Minimum Qualifications   Technical certification, or equivalent experience in Materials Science, Engineering Technology, Electronics, Physics, or a related field.   Hands-on experience as a FIB Technician in a semiconductor production, manufacturing, or failure analysis laboratory environment.   Experience preparing TEM lamella samples using FIB techniques.   Working knowledge of SEM, FIB, and TEM fundamentals.   Ability to interpret engineering instructions, layouts, and sample preparation requirements.   Proficiency with Microsoft Outlook and Microsoft Office applications.   Ability to lift up to 30 lbs and work in a laboratory environment.   Key Responsibilities   Sample Preparation and Analysis   Prepare samples for experimentation, including cleaning, mounting and unmounting samples, loading FOUPs, and setting up jobs for analytical investigations.   Prepare transmission electron microscopy (TEM) lamella samples using Focused Ion Beam (FIB) techniques.   Identify locations of interest based on engineering drawings, pattern instructions, and customer requirements.   Assist in developing and optimizing sample preparation methods, procedures, and process conditions.   Operate SEM, FIB, TEM, and laboratory metrology tools to support failure analysis and process characterization activities.   Perform cross-sectional and plan-view imaging, critical dimension (CD) measurements, and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis.   Acquire high-quality images and analytical data according to customer and engineering requirements.   Understand sample and beam interactions to determine optimal imaging and milling conditions.   Equipment Operation and Maintenance   Operate and maintain SEM, FIB, TEM, and related metrology systems.   Perform routine maintenance activities including plasma cleaning, flashing, image calibrations, and system checks.   Execute equipment startup and shutdown procedures according to established protocols.   Monitor equipment performance and identify issues requiring service intervention.   Coordinate equipment repairs, maintenance activities, and vendor support when necessary.   Monitor and track metrology equipment performance and production activities per equipment requirements.   Laboratory Operations   Monitor job queues and support laboratory throughput objectives.   Interface with customers, engineers, and requestors to understand requirements and communicate project status and results.   Coordinate with engineering teams to prioritize and complete assigned work.   Verify, upload, and maintain data records on network storage systems.   Pick up and deliver customer samples and coupons from other laboratories as needed.   Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance laboratory efficiency and productivity.   Documentation and Continuous Improvement   Document rework activities and lessons learned to reduce repeat issues and improve quality.   Create, update, and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and laboratory documentation.   Record process parameters, analytical data, and job results accurately.   Participate in process improvement projects and implement best practices.   Safety and Compliance   Adhere to all laboratory safety protocols, environmental health and safety requirements, and standard operating procedures.   Follow all equipment operating guidelines and process controls.   Maintain a clean and organized la