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Semiconductor Processing Technician

💰 Earn $44K-$58K
📚 High School Diploma or GED
⏱️ 6–12 Month Training
📈 10.9% Job Growth
  • Ideal for those fascinated by the creation of cutting-edge technology.
  • Play a crucial role in crafting the microchips that drive modern innovation.
  • Work with precision tools to transform raw materials into advanced electronics.
Semiconductor Processing Technician
What Semiconductor Processing Technicians DoPerform any or all of the following functions in the manufacture of electronic semiconductors: load semiconductor material into furnace; saw formed ingots into segments; load individual segment into crystal growing chamber and monitor controls; locate crystal axis in ingot using x-ray equipment and saw ingots into wafers; and clean, polish, and load wafers into series of special purpose furnaces, chemical baths, and equipment used to form circuitry and change conductive properties.
  • Manipulate valves, switches, and buttons, or key commands into control panels to start semiconductor processing cycles.
  • Maintain processing, production, and inspection information and reports.
  • Inspect materials, components, or products for surface defects and measure circuitry, using electronic test equipment, precision measuring instruments, microscope, and standard procedures.
  • Clean semiconductor wafers using cleaning equipment, such as chemical baths, automatic wafer cleaners, or blow-off wands.
  • Study work orders, instructions, formulas, and processing charts to determine specifications and sequence of operations.
Semiconductor Processing Technicians Education, Salary, and Growth
Minimum EducationHigh School Diploma or GED
Career ProspectsExcellent (Increasing by 5% or more)
Training Time6 months to 1 year
Job Openings3,900 Annually
Median Earnings
$49,270 in California
$51,180 Nationally

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Is This Career Right For You?
YOU Like
  • Thinking and problem solving
  • Using data or completing tasks
  • Working with my hands
you value
  • Having support
  • Job security
  • Personal relationships
you are skilled in
  • Active Listening
  • Coordination
  • Critical Thinking
  • Speaking
  • Management of Personnel Resources
  • Monitoring
Go Deeper: Semiconductor Processing Technicians Explained
Semiconductor Processing TechnicianExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
How Do You Train for This Career?

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years
Vocational SchoolA vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.
🎓 Skills-Focused
⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years
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Updated April 2026. Data sourced from O*NET and Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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