MOCVD Engineer (Entry-Level)

Applied-Optoelectronics-Inc; Sugar Land (TX); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible health plans

Relocation package within US

Immigration sponsorships

Generous PTO

Job summary

Applied Optoelectronics, Inc. is seeking an entry-level MOCVD engineer to support operation and optimization of MOCVD equipment for epitaxial growth of compound semiconductors.

You will work with experienced engineers to develop expertise in epitaxy, semiconductor manufacturing, and process characterization, with opportunities for growth in production support. The role welcomes recent graduates or early-career engineers and involves on-site work in Sugar Land, Texas, with potential for

Qualifications

• 0–2 years of experience in semiconductor manufacturing or related labs.
• Recent graduates encouraged to apply.
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in physics, materials science, chemical engineering, electrical engineering, or related field.
• Experience with commercial MOCVD equipment for epitaxial growth.
• Familiarity with InP or GaAs materials.
• Strong analytical and written/verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Operate MOCVD systems for epitaxial growth of compound semiconductors.
• Monitor growth runs and collect process data.
• Document growth parameters, characterization results, and production records.
• Support quality control activities, yield monitoring, and data analysis.
• Assist in troubleshooting basic process and equipment issues under guidance of senior engineers.
• Support routine maintenance on MOCVD equipment and SOP adherence.
• Prepare technical reports and maintain engineering documentation.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, process engineering, and quality teams to support production objectives.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Education

Bachelors or Masters in Physics, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Semiconductor Engineering, or related field

Tools

MOCVD equipment

Job description

Overview

Applied Optoelectronics, Inc. is currently seeking a highly motivated entry-level MOCVD engineer to support the operation and optimization of MOCVD equipment used in the fabrication of compound semiconductor materials. This position provides an excellent opportunity for recent graduates or early-career engineers to develop expertise in epitaxial growth, semiconductor manufacturing, process characterization, and production support while working alongside experienced engineering professionals.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the operation of MOCVD systems for epitaxial growth of compound semiconductor materials.
• Monitor growth runs and collect process and characterization data.
• Document growth parameters, characterization results, and production records.
• Support quality control activities, yield monitoring, and process data analysis.
• Assist in troubleshooting basic process and equipment issues under the guidance of senior engineers.
• Support routine maintenance and preventive maintenance activities on MOCVD equipment.
• Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and MOCVD safety protocols, including safe handling of hazardous materials and gases.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance process consistency, quality, and equipment performance.
• Prepare technical reports and maintain accurate engineering documentation.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, process engineering, and quality teams to support production objectives.

Qualifications

• 0–2 years of relevant experience in semiconductor manufacturing, research, internships, co-ops, or university laboratory work.
• Recent graduates with relevant coursework and hands-on laboratory or research experience are encouraged to apply.
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Physics, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Semiconductor Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience with commercial MOCVD equipment for semiconductor epitaxial growth.
• Coursework or laboratory experience in one or more of the following:
  • Semiconductor materials and devices
  • Compound semiconductors
  • Thin-film deposition
  • Epitaxy
  • Crystal growth
  • Semiconductor fabrication
• Basic understanding of compound semiconductor materials such as InP or GaAs.
• Familiarity with MOCVD, CVD, or related deposition processes through coursework, research, or laboratory experience is preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to learn new processes and work effectively in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Location

This position will be on-site based in Sugar Land, Texas.

Benefits

WHY AOI?

In addition to competitive salary, AOI offers:

• Flexible and competitive health (medical, dental, vision) plans offering options to meet individual and family needs
• Employer matching on 401(k) deferrals
• Generous PTO policy, with unused PTO payout at end of the year
• Relocation package available within US
• Immigration sponsorships (Must be currently authorized to work in the US)