Principal Engineer, Exploratory Materials and Devices Research (6742)

TSMC; San Jose (CA); Hybrid; USD 125,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits

Extensive development opportunities

Job summary

TSMC in San Jose, CA, is seeking a Principal Engineer to lead research in exploratory materials and devices. This hands-on role involves developing processes and working closely with engineers to achieve performance targets. The position operates under a hybrid schedule, allowing for collaboration both on-site and at off-site locations.

Qualified candidates should possess a PhD in a relevant field and have experience with advanced materials deposition processes and characterization methods. A competitive compensation package is offered.

Qualifications

• PhD degree or equivalent in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or similar.
• Hands-on experience developing advanced processes for materials deposition and etching recipes.
• Experience with characterization methods and data analysis.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate with cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop processes for exploratory materials & devices.
• Work closely with device engineers to achieve performance targets.
• Drive university and consortia collaboration.
• Perform hands-on experiments both on-site and at off-site locations.

Skills

Developing advanced processes for materials deposition and etching

Experience with characterization methods and data analysis

Collaboration with cross-functional teams

Education

PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, or related fields

Job description

Overview Of Role

As a Principal Engineer in TSMC Corporate Research you will pursue world‑class research in a team setting, advancing the state‑of‑the‑art for exploratory materials and devices. This role will be "hands‑on" to experimentally explore concepts for future generations of semiconductor electronics technology built on exploratory materials. You will report to the Deputy Director of Exploratory Materials and Devices Corporate Research Team and carry out laboratory work in process development for selective etching, deposition by ALD/CVD, device fabrication and characterization. A background with selective‑area chemistry and/or etch process development is a strong plus. You will have the opportunity to significantly impact the expansion of TSMC’s business and grow as a future technical leader of the global research community. This role is based in San Jose, CA and is operating under a hybrid work schedule with 4 days in office.

Responsibilities

• Seeking world‑class researcher to develop processes for exploratory materials & devices.
• Work closely with device engineers to achieve performance targets.
• Drive university and consortia collaboration on topics relevant to the job assignment.
• Periodic reporting and internal communication of work.
• Perform hands‑on experiments both on‑site and at off‑site locations.

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD degree or equivalent in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or similar.
• Hands‑on experience developing advanced processes for materials deposition and etching recipes.
• Experience with characterization methods and data analysis.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate with cross‑functional teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands‑on experience in an industrial environment involving lab work.
• Using AI/ML to enhance process discovery.
• Experience in setting up research equipment and programming on tool control and data collection.
• World‑class publication track record and excellent communication skills.

Diversity statement

TSMC Technology, Inc. is committed to employing a diverse workforce and provides Equal Employment Opportunity for all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. TSMC is an equal‑opportunity employer prizing diversity and inclusion. We are committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity. If you require reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please feel free to notify us at [e-mail]. TSMC confirms to all applicants its commitment to meet TSMC’s obligations under applicable employment law. Reasonable accommodations will be determined on a case‑by‑case basis.

Pay Transparency / Benefits Statement

At TSMC, your base pay is only part of your overall total compensation package. At the time of this posting, this role typically pays a base salary between $125,000and $180,000 per year. The range displayed reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hires. Actual pay may be more or less than the posted range. Factors that influence pay include the individual's skills, qualifications, education, experience and the position level and location. TSMC’s total compensation package consists of market competitive pay, allowances, bonuses, and comprehensive benefits. We also offer extensive development opportunities and programs.