CMP Process Lead for High-Volume Semiconductors

Tower Semiconductor Ltd.; San Antonio, Northern (TX, KY); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Tower Semiconductor is seeking an experienced CMP Process Engineer to lead development, transfer, and continuous improvement in our San Antonio, TX fab. You will own process initiatives, partner with process, integration, and yield teams, and guide technicians to deliver high-quality, cost-efficient production.

The role emphasizes deep CMP tool expertise, device physics knowledge, and the ability to drive projects from concept to completion while improving cycle times and uptime.

Qualifications

• Must have: M.S. or Ph.D. in a relevant field, or a B.S. with 5+ years of related experience.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly and effectively convey complex technical information to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience operating and optimizing Chemical Mechanical Planarization (CMP) tools and processes.
• Working knowledge of device physics and device architecture.
• Strong understanding of cycle time management, process flows, and material handling.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex problems and lead the team in developing effective, sustainable solutions.

Responsibilities

• Take ownership of the area by setting the strategic direction for continuous improvement, sustained performance, and overall operational excellence.
• Partner with process, integration, and yield enhancement engineers to strengthen key process metrics such as SPC, yield, parametrics, and defect rates, ensuring first-pass success in technology transfers.
• Identify opportunities and define targeted projects for process development and improvement.
• Lead and guide a team of process technicians through project work and daily sustaining activities.
• Ensure newly installed equipment is properly matched and qualified to support production ramp requirements.
• Collaborate with equipment engineering to enhance uptime and maximize tool utilization.
• Implement advanced process control methods to improve Cpk at critical process steps.
• Uncover cost-saving opportunities and lead initiatives to reduce overall operational costs.
• Define and drive projects through to completion, delivering measurable improvements in cost, quality, and productivity.
• Develop and optimize processes to support new product introductions, demonstrating strong manufacturability.

Skills

Ownership

Team leadership

Process optimization

Communication skills

Problem solving

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

M.S./Ph.D. or B.S. + 5+ years experience

Tools

CMP tools

Job description

Tower Semiconductor is seeking an experienced CMP Process Engineer to lead development, transfer, and continuous improvement in our San Antonio, TX fab. You will own process initiatives, partner with process, integration, and yield teams, and guide technicians to deliver high-quality, cost-efficient production.

The role emphasizes deep CMP tool expertise, device physics knowledge, and the ability to drive projects from concept to completion while improving cycle times and uptime.