Dry/Plasma Etch Process Development Engineer (SM1)

Texas Instruments; Sherman (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Texas Instruments in Sherman, TX, seeks an Advanced Process Development Engineer to drive plasma etch process development for next‑generation semiconductor devices. You will design experiments, optimize etch performance, and support manufacturing transfers through rigorous data analysis and cross‑functional teamwork.

The role emphasizes SPC, DOE, and metrology proficiency, with opportunities to mentor junior staff and influence device integration strategies.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of semiconductor plasma/dry etch process development experience.
• Bachelor's degree in engineering.
• Strong foundation in statistical process control and process release strategies.
• Experience with DOE methodologies and statistical analysis.
• Familiarity with metrology techniques including SEM, CD-SEM, ellipsometry and defect inspection tools.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize plasma etch processes for advanced semiconductor devices.
• Design and execute experiments (DOE) to improve metrics: etch rate, selectivity, CD control, profile control, defectivity, uniformity.
• Establish process windows and robustness for manufacturing transfer.
• Collaborate with device integration teams to meet product requirements.
• Lead process readiness for technology transfers from development to manufacturing.
• Analyze complex datasets using statistical methods to identify root causes and drive improvements.

Skills

Plasma etch development

DOE design & analysis

Statistical data analysis

Cross-functional collaboration

Python programming

Process development

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

SEM

CD-SEM

Ellipsometry

Defect inspection tools

Job description

Change the world. Love your job. We are seeking a highly motivated

Job Description

Change the world. Love your job. We are seeking a highly motivated Advanced Process Development Engineer to join our Plasma Etch Process Development team. This role is responsible for developing, optimizing, and transferring advanced plasma etch processes supporting next-generation semiconductor technologies. The engineer will work closely with integration, equipment, metrology, and manufacturing teams to drive technology innovation, improve process capability, and enable successful product ramp into high-volume manufacturing. The ideal candidate possesses strong technical expertise in plasma etch fundamentals, semiconductor process development, statistical data analysis, and cross-functional problem solving. The responsibilities of a Manufacturing Development Process Engineer in this role include:Technology IntroductionTool and Equipment EngineeringData Analysis & Continuous ImprovementCross-Functional Collaboration

• Process Development
  • Develop and optimize plasma etch processes for advanced semiconductor devices.
  • Design and execute experiments (DOE) to improve critical process metrics, including:
  • Etch rate
  • Selectivity
  • Critical dimension (CD) control
  • Profile control
  • Defectivity
  • Uniformity
  • Characterize process performance and establish process windows for manufacturing robustness.
  • Evaluate new process chemistries, hardware configurations, and chamber technologies.
  • Support development and qualification of next-generation etch technologies.
  • Collaborate with device integration teams to meet product and technology requirements.
  • Drive process readiness for technology transfers from development into manufacturing.
  • Establish process specifications, control plans, and release documentation.
  • Partner with equipment engineering teams to improve tool capability, productivity, and reliability.
  • Lead chamber matching, equipment qualification, and process performance improvement activities.
  • Support installation and startup of new etch platforms.
  • Analyze complex process datasets using statistical methods and data analytics tools.
  • Identify root causes of process excursions and implement corrective actions.
  • Lead yield improvement and defect reduction initiatives.
  • Utilize SPC methodologies to monitor and improve process stability.
  • Work closely with:
  • Process Integration
  • Manufacturing
  • Yield Engineering
  • Metrology
  • Equipment Engineering
  • Quality and Reliability teams
  • Present technical findings and recommendations to management and key stakeholders.
  • Mentor junior engineers and technicians as needed.

Qualifications

Minimum requirements

• 8+ years of semiconductor plasma/dry etch process development experience.
• Bachelors in an engineering discipline
• Strong foundation in statistical process control, engineering change control and process release strategies
• Experience with DOE methodologies and statistical analysis.
• Familiarity with metrology techniques including SEM, CD-SEM, ellipsometry and defect inspection tools.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong foundation in statistical process control, engineering change control and process release strategies
• Proficiency with Python, Claude, or other AI models or tools is a plus
• Demonstrated strong analytical and problem solving skills resulting in innovative and creative process solutions
• Experience with process development and transfer on etch platforms (LAM, AMAT, TEL, etc)
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work in teams and collaborate effectively with people in different job functions
• Strong time management skills that enable on-time project delivery
• Demonstrated ability to build strong, influential relationships
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and rapidly changing environment
• Ability to take the initiative and drive for result

About Us

Why TI?

• Engineer your future. We empower our employees to truly own their career and development. Come collaborate with some of the smartest people in the world to shape the future of electronics.
• We're different by design. Diverse backgrounds and perspectives are what push innovation forward and what make TI stronger. We value each and every voice, and look forward to hearing yours. Meet the people of TI
• Benefits that benefit you. We offer competitive pay and benefits designed to help you and your family live your best life. Your well-being is important to us. Please find our country-specific benefits here

About Texas Instruments

Texas Instruments Incorporated (Nasdaq: TXN) is a global semiconductor company that designs, manufactures and sells analog and embedded processing chips for markets such as industrial, automotive, data center, personal electronics and communications equipment. At our core, we have a passion to create a better world by making electronics more affordable through semiconductors. This passion is alive today as each generation of innovation builds upon the last to make our technology more reliable, more affordable and lower power, making it possible for semiconductors to go into electronics everywhere. Learn more at TI.com .

Texas Instruments is an equal opportunity employer and supports a diverse, inclusive work environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, disability, genetic information, national origin, gender, gender identity and expression, age, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

About The Team

TI does not make recruiting or hiring decisions based on citizenship, immigration status or national origin. However, if TI determines that information access or export control restrictions based upon applicable laws and regulations would prohibit you from working in this position without first obtaining an export license, TI expressly reserves the right not to seek such a license for you and either offer you a different position that does not require an export license or decline to move forward with your employment.