Field Services Engineer

Oxford Instruments plc; Houston (TX); Remote; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Oxford Instruments Plasma Technology is seeking a Field Service Engineer to install, maintain, troubleshoot, and optimize advanced plasma etch and deposition systems. You will travel extensively across North America, serve as a trusted technical advisor, and train customers to maximize uptime and performance.

The role requires hands-on expertise with vacuum systems and RF/ICP technologies, plus strong customer-facing skills and flexibility to relocate near major airports for frequent customer

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or related technical discipline; equivalent semiconductor equipment service experience also considered.
• 3–5 years of field service experience in the semiconductor industry.
• Hands-on experience with vacuum systems including turbo, cryo, and roughing pumps.
• Experience troubleshooting 208V electrical systems and 24V control circuits.

Responsibilities

• Install and commission plasma etch and deposition systems (RIE, ICP, CVD, ALD, ALE, ICP-CVD).
• Provide preventive and corrective maintenance on semiconductor equipment.
• Diagnose root causes and implement long-term solutions; validate repairs to specifications.
• Train operators and build strong customer relationships; deliver remote support when needed.

Skills

Customer-facing

Strong Troubleshooting

Travel-ready (90%+ travel)

Effective communication

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics or related (or equivalent semiconductor equipment service experience)

Tools

RIE

ICP

PECVD/ CVD/ ALD

Job description

Are you passionate about solving complex technical challenges and working with some of the most advanced semiconductor technologies in the world? Join Oxford Instruments Plasma Technology as a Field Service Engineer and play a pivotal role in supporting customers who are developing next-generation devices and breakthrough innovations.

As a Field Service Engineer, you'll be the face of Oxford Instruments, delivering exceptional technical expertise, world-class customer service, and hands‑on support for our industry‑leading plasma etch and deposition systems. This is a unique opportunity to combine cutting‑edge technology, customer interaction, and extensive travel while helping customers maximize the performance of their equipment.

This is a remote role in the Houston Metro USA, open to candidates across the U.S. who are willing to relocate to the Houston Metro. Must be located within approximately 60 minutes of a major airport to support frequent travel to customer sites across North America.

Why Join Oxford Instruments?

At Oxford Instruments, we enable the world’s leading researchers and manufacturers to push the boundaries of science and technology. You'll work with innovative products, collaborate with highly skilled colleagues, and make a direct impact on customer success within the rapidly evolving semiconductor industry.

The Opportunity

In this highly visible customer‑facing role, you will install, maintain, troubleshoot, and optimize advanced plasma etch and deposition systems. You'll work closely with customers, engineering teams, and technical specialists to ensure exceptional system performance and customer satisfaction.

If you thrive in a hands‑on environment, enjoy solving challenging technical problems, and are energized by travel and customer interaction, we'd love to hear from you.

What You’ll Be Doing

Install and Commission Advanced Systems

• Lead the installation and commissioning of plasma etch and deposition systems, including RIE, ICP, CVD, ALD, ALE, and ICP-CVD technologies.
• Ensure systems meet customer specifications, process requirements, and cleanroom standards.
• Verify system readiness and support successful customer acceptance.

Deliver Exceptional Service & Maintenance

• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on sophisticated semiconductor equipment.
• Diagnose root causes of technical issues and implement effective long‑term solutions.
• Validate repairs against vacuum, process, and performance specifications.

Build Strong Customer Relationships

• Serve as a trusted technical advisor to customers.
• Provide operator training and technical guidance to maximize system uptime and performance.
• Deliver responsive support and maintain a high level of customer satisfaction.

Troubleshoot Complex Technical Challenges

• Investigate and resolve hardware, electrical, vacuum, RF, pneumatic, and software‑related issues.
• Utilize advanced diagnostic equipment including vacuum leak detectors, RF power meters, DVMs, LCR meters, and multimeters.
• Provide remote support when necessary to minimize customer downtime.
• Perform system calibrations, upgrades, and performance enhancements.
• Support installation of new components, including pumps, RF generators, APCs, MFCs, PLCs, and control systems.
• Maintain accurate service documentation and share knowledge across teams.

What We’re Looking For

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical discipline.
• Equivalent semiconductor equipment service experience will also be considered.

Experience

• 3-5 years of field service experience within the semiconductor industry.
• Strong experience supporting plasma etch and/or deposition equipment.
• Familiarity with cleanroom environments and semiconductor manufacturing processes.
• Hands‑on experience with vacuum systems including turbo, cryo, and roughing pumps.
• Experience troubleshooting 208V electrical systems and 24V control circuits.

Technical Expertise

• Strong understanding of RF power systems and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) technology.
• Working knowledge of semiconductor processes including RIE, PECVD, ICP, and ALD.
• Ability to interpret electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and process schematics.
• Experience using diagnostic and calibration tools in a semiconductor environment.

Preferred Experience

• Familiarity with other similar platforms, vacuum systems, and components.
• Experience calibrating and optimizing APCs and MFCs.
• Knowledge of advanced vacuum and process control technologies.

We’re looking for someone who:

• Enjoys solving challenging technical problems and finding lasting solutions.
• Communicates clearly and builds strong customer relationships.
• Thrives in both independent and team‑based environments.
• Is adaptable, proactive, and committed to continuous learning.
• Maintains high standards of organization, safety, and professionalism.

Travel & Physical Requirements

• Valid driver’s license, passport, and ability to travel independently.
• Ability to travel extensively (90%) Monday through Friday across North America.
• Comfortable working in cleanroom environments and confined spaces.
• Able to safely lift and handle equipment weighing up to 50 lbs.
• Strong manual dexterity and attention to detail