Senior Semiconductor Process Engineer (InP)

IQE PLC; Cardiff; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

IQE PLC in Cardiff seeks a Senior Semiconductor Process Engineer (InP) to lead and optimise epitaxial growth processes, ensuring high yield and product quality across MOCVD and MBE reactors.

You will develop production recipes, calibrate processes to customer specs, monitor reactor health, and use SPC to drive improvements while maintaining traceability in MES systems. A STEM degree with 5+ years in process engineering is preferred.

Qualifications

• Degree in a STEM discipline or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years in process engineering or equivalent manufacturing field.
• Experience with InP, MOCVD or MBE preferred.
• Knowledge of SPC and recipe editing preferred.
• Experience with reactor maintenance is a plus.
• Strong analytical and data-driven problem solving.

Responsibilities

• Support operation and performance of semiconductor reactors (MOCVD, MBE) to meet product specifications and output targets.
• Assist in generating growth and process recipes for production and calibration activities aligned with customer specs and engineering guidelines.
• Adjust process parameters to ensure product meets specifications.
• Monitor critical reactor parameters and material outputs for consistency and quality.
• Monitor and chart reactor performance using statistical process control (SPC) methods in compliance with SOPs.
• Interpret process metrics and reactor health parameters.
• Support corrective/preventive actions, problem solving, failure analysis, process qualification, and root cause investigations with supervision.
• Coordinate reactor scheduling activities to meet production targets efficiently.
• Ensure MES software is managed to control Process Engineering activities, and accurately record all works carried out for traceability.
• Supports the creation of technical reports that are shared internally and externally with clarity using supporting data.
• Analyse data from characterization tools to guide process control.
• Have basic experience and competence with troubleshooting.
• Perform other functions and duties as required.

Skills

Process Engineering

SPC

Data analysis

MOCVD

MBE

InP

Problem solving

Teamwork

Education

STEM degree

Tools

MES software

Job description

The following content displays a map of the jobs location - Cardiff

Senior Semiconductor Process Engineer (InP)

Job Reference iqe/TP/879/106

Number of Positions:

1

Contract Type:

Full Time

Working Hours:

37.5

Location:

Cardiff

Closing Date:

12/09/2026

Job Category:

Process Engineering

Region / Division:

Pascal Cl, St. Mellons, Cardiff CF3 0LW

Business Unit:

UK

Job Introduction

Who We Are

IQE is a leading global supplier of compound semiconductor wafers and advanced materials. As one of the only compound semiconductor epitaxy foundries with worldwide presence and scalable manufacturing, IQE drives technology growth. Our vision is to be the top provider of advanced semiconductor materials by delivering exceptional quality, service, and innovation, making us the first choice for customers. Our strength comes from our diverse, expert workforce and a culture built on integrity, accountability, excellence, teamwork, and valuing people.

At IQE, we are committed to reaching Net Zero and creating a sustainable future. We actively strive to reduce our carbon footprint, invest in green initiatives, and embed sustainability into everything we do. Join us in driving meaningful change and making a lasting impact on the environment.

About the role

The Senior InP Process Engineer is responsible for knowledge of Semiconductor process and product interactions with efficient and reliable operation of Semiconductor epitaxial reactors (MOCVD, MBE), ensuring high product quality, production yield, and equipment uptime. This role mainly supports both Production activities, including process development, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement.

Main Responsibilities.

• Support for the operation and performance of Semiconductor reactors (MOCVD, MBE) to meet product specifications and output targets.
• Assists in generating growth and process recipes for production and calibration activities aligned with customer specs and engineering guidelines.
• Adjust process parameters to ensure product meets specifications.
• Monitor critical reactor parameters and material outputs for consistency and quality.
• Monitor and chart reactor performance using statistical process control (SPC) methods in compliance with standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Interpret process metrics and reactor health parameters.
• Support corrective/preventive actions, problem solving, failure analysis, process qualification, and root cause investigations with supervision.
• Coordinates reactor scheduling activities to meet production targets efficiently.
• Ensure Manufacturing Execution System (MES) softwareis managed to control Process Engineering activities, and accurately record all works carried out for traceability.
• Supports the creation of technical reports that are shared internally and externally with clarity using supporting data.
• Analyse data from the suite of characterisation tools internally along with external results to guide process control.
• Use computerized tools and software to follow process and routine tasks, accurately recording all works carried out for traceability and within the scope of the role.
• Have basic experience and competence with troubleshooting
• Perform other functions and duties as required.

About you

• Professional attitude.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently while thriving in a team environment.
• Has a commitment to product and process quality.
• Attention to detail with a focus on accuracy and consistency.
• Has technical analytical skills.
• Supports continuous improvement of the processes and practices ofProcess Engineering.
• Good problem-solving skills with an analytical mindset and ability to use data-driven methods to support issues resolution.
• Clear verbal and written communication skills, effective in shift handovers and reporting.
• Good understanding and knowledge of Semiconductor reactors (MOCVD, MBE) or other semiconductor growth technologies.

Experience Requirements

• Comprehensive experience in Process Engineering or equivalent manufacturing field.
• 5+ Years experience in Process Engineering or equivalent combination of education, experience and/or knowledge is desirable.
• Reactor (MOCVD, MBE) process knowledge preferred.
• Experience with SPC and recipe editing is preferred.
• Experience and knowledge of InP
• Experience with reactor maintenance is a plus.

Qualification Requirements

• Degree in a STEM related discipline and or relevant experience
• Specialised technical qualifications relevant to the role.

Why should you join us?

All our employees benefit from:

• Professional Development and career pathways
• Discretionary Bonus plans
• Income Protection - Permanent Health Insurance (PHI)
• Long Service Awards 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 years
• Values-based recognition awards
• Health Cash Plan includes discounts with high street brands
• Cycle to work plan (includes E-bikes)
• Electric Car Scheme (salary dependent)
• Employee Assistance Programme (Free family, legal, financial and counselling support 24/7 Access to second medical opinion and unlimited access to a remote GP)
• Life assurance 4x salary
• Access to workplace Mental Health First Aiders/wellbeing rooms

IQE is an equal opportunities employer that values diversity at all levels. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.