Process Engineer

Umbilical Limited; North East; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in semiconductor manufacturing seeks a Semiconductor Process Engineer to enhance production and R&D processes. This role involves ownership of etching processes, mentoring, and contributing to innovative semiconductor solutions. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience in plasma etching and a strong analytical background.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in process engineering, in both development and production environments.
• Experience transitioning from academic cleanrooms to commercial fabs is a plus.
• Background in GaAs semiconductor processing is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Take ownership of the etch process to improve yield, reduce costs, and minimize scrap.
• Lead process development and improvement projects from concept to production.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians.

Skills

Analytical skills

Experimental skills

Process-to-device understanding

Lean manufacturing principles

Tools

Plasma etch techniques

Semiconductor tools

Job description

Job Title: Semiconductor Process Engineer - Dry Etch - North East (UK)

Be among the first 25 applicants two days ago.

This range is provided by Umbilical Advanced. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

Direct message the job poster from Umbilical Advanced.

About the Role

I help leaders within Life Science and Advanced Engineering secure the best talent across the UK, Europe, and the USA.

Are you currently working in a university research lab and looking to transition into a cutting-edge semiconductor environment?

Or are you an experienced Process Engineer, specializing in semiconductor etching, seeking a role with steady work and exciting projects?

This opportunity allows you to bring your technical expertise into a thriving production setting while engaging in dry etch technology problem-solving.

Why This Role is Different

Our client, a leader in advanced semiconductor manufacturing, seeks a Dry Etch Process Engineer to join their high-performing team.

You will support both production and R&D in a state-of-the-art wafer fab — a hybrid role where your analytical mindset and hands-on experience will have a visible impact from day one.

This is more than a job — it’s a chance to shape next-generation semiconductor solutions and transition from research to real-world applications.

If you have experience with plasma etching (RIE/ICP) or mastery in GaAs and SiN etch processes, this role will elevate your skills.

Responsibilities

• Take ownership of the etch process to improve yield, reduce costs, and minimize scrap.
• Lead process development and improvement projects from concept to production.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians.
• Design, commission, and optimize new semiconductor tools.
• Contribute to product quality, safety, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Work on deep GaAs etch and sub-micron processes using RIE and ICP plasma systems.

Ideal Candidate

• 5+ years in process engineering, in both development and production environments.
• Experience transitioning from academic cleanrooms to commercial fabs is a plus.
• Knowledge of semiconductor tools and plasma etch techniques.
• Strong analytical and experimental skills with understanding of process-to-device relationships.
• Background in GaAs semiconductor processing is advantageous.
• Familiarity with SPC, DOE, FMEA, and lean manufacturing principles.

Next Steps

If you're ready to bridge research and production, this role offers significant influence and growth opportunities.

Join a team that values your technical depth, creativity, and hands-on experience.

Apply now for a confidential discussion. Contact Benjamin at [e-mail] or call [phone].

Additional Details

• Seniority level: Associate
• Employment type: Full-time
• Industries: Semiconductor Manufacturing, Electronics Manufacturing

Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Umbilical Advanced by 2x.

Get notified about new Process Engineer jobs in North East, England, UK.

We are innovating community knowledge sharing, integrating expert insights directly into articles with AI assistance.