Production Operator (DSP)

Aerotek; Vancouver (WA); On-site; USD 26,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental & vision

401(k) retirement plan

Life Insurance

Job summary

Aerotek is seeking a Production Operator (DSP) in Vancouver, WA, to run automated polishing lines for silicon wafers under a semi-cleanroom environment. This contract-to-hire role requires working 12-hour compressed shifts, including weekends, with a focus on safety, precision SPC practices, and data entry into Excel.

Responsibilities include monitoring double-sided polishing equipment, ensuring wafer quality, troubleshooting alarms, and maintaining meticulous documentation.

Qualifications

• Follow complex, detailed procedures with high accuracy.
• Commitment to safety and quality standards.
• Maintain focus on production goals while multitasking.

Responsibilities

• Run and monitor polishing machines to meet customer specs and defect-free output.
• Operate cleaning processes to remove residual slurry and ensure cleanliness.
• Use metrology equipment to verify process control and wafer flatness.
• Log data and enter order details into Excel; complete electronic forms.
• Identify and communicate process or quality improvements to supervisors.

Skills

Attention to detail

Procedural follow-through

Teamwork

English communication

Stamina for long shifts

Problem solving

Safety focus

Multi-tasking

Mathematical skills

Overtime flexibility

Tools

Excel

Outlook

Metrology equipment

SPC software

Robotic/automated equipment

Job description

Production Operator (DSP)

Semiconductor Manufacturing

12-hour Compressed Shifts

Job Description

The Production Operator (DSP) runs multiple pieces of automated machinery that perform a precision polishing process for silicon wafer manufacturing. This role follows complex, detailed procedures to polish and clean wafers on both sides to exact customer specifications, using Statistical Process Control (SPC) methods to ensure high quality and defect-free output. The position operates in a semi-cleanroom environment and requires working 12-hour shifts on a compressed schedule, including some weekends and overtime.

Responsibilities

• Run and monitor multiple double-sided polishing machines to polish silicon wafers using alkali polishing slurry until wafers meet customer specifications and are free of defects.
• Operate and monitor cleaning processes to remove residual slurry from wafer surfaces and ensure wafers meet cleanliness specifications.
• Use metrology equipment to verify process control, confirm material removal, and ensure wafer flatness and other critical parameters meet customer requirements.
• Continuously monitor, analyze, and verify process data, order specifications, weights, and calibrations during and after each process step before moving wafers to the next operation.
• Apply Statistical Process Control (SPC) methodology to measure, identify, and correct process variations and eliminate defects.
• Operate robotic or automated equipment to load and unload wafers, tools, and related equipment safely and efficiently.
• Respond to and troubleshoot tool alarms, taking prompt action to address machine and quality issues, and elevate to a team leader, supervisor, or trainer when needed.
• Use a computer to input data into Excel, track and confirm each process step, and complete computerized forms and labels for each order according to all requirements.
• Perform visual inspection of small parts to detect errors, defects, and fabrication issues, and ensure all documentation, numbers, and labels are accurate.
• Follow all documented training, procedures, and processes to meet quality standards and maintain consistent product quality.
• Report, document, and help prevent variations, errors, or lapses in quality, and ensure quality issues are corrected and not repeated.
• Identify and communicate suggestions for process or quality improvements to the appropriate supervisor or manager.
• Complete all tasks using safe work practices, always placing safety ahead of deadlines and other goals.
• Act as a safety role model with co-workers and work cautiously around moving mechanical parts and hazardous or volatile chemicals.
• Clean equipment and work areas to meet standards for each manufacturing process and maintain a tidy, organized work environment.
• Multi-task by monitoring the movement of wafers on multiple tool sets at the same time while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
• Review work orders thoroughly before processing to ensure correct setup, parameters, and specifications are followed.
• Use calculators, Excel, or other tools to perform basic math functions including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages, and decimals.
• Communicate effectively in English with management and co-workers, and explain instructions, procedures, and technical information as needed.
• Comply with attendance, advance notice, and call-in policies, and be available to work all required hours, shifts, and overtime.
• Perform physically demanding tasks such as bending, stooping, squatting, lifting, reaching, grasping, pushing, pulling, and guiding products and machine parts in and out of machines throughout a 12-hour shift.

Essential Skills

• Ability to follow complex, detailed procedures and work instructions with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to stand for long periods during 12-hour shifts and repeatedly lift up to 25 lbs, and occasionally exert up to 50 lbs of force to move objects.
• Comfort working around hazardous and volatile chemicals while following safety protocols.
• Capability to bend, stoop, squat, reach, grasp, push, pull, and guide products and machine parts in and out of equipment.
• Ability to work all hours and all shifts on a compressed workweek schedule, including overtime and every other weekend as required.
• Strong multi-tasking skills to monitor multiple tool sets and processes simultaneously without sacrificing quality.
• Basic math skills, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages, and decimals using a calculator or Excel.
• Proficiency using a computer, keyboard, and monitor to enter data accurately and complete electronic forms and labels.
• Ability to use Microsoft Excel and email software such as Outlook or similar tools.
• Experience or familiarity with Statistical Process Control (SPC) software or methodology.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English, including understanding and explaining instructions, procedures, and technical manuals.
• High attention to detail, organization, and time management skills to meet deadlines and production goals.
• Strong focus on safety, with the ability to consistently use safe behaviors and prioritize safety over speed or other goals.
• Ability to work effectively with others in a team environment and also work independently when required.
• High sense of urgency and responsiveness when addressing machine alarms, quality issues, or production needs.
• Prior production or manufacturing experience (preferred).

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Prior experience in semiconductor manufacturing, wafer processing, or similar high-tech production environments is a plus.
• Experience using Statistical Process Control (SPC) tools or similar process monitoring software is desirable.
• Experience with Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and other basic office or production software applications.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain quality standards and follow documented procedures consistently.
• Strong teamwork skills with the ability to collaborate in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and quality assurance mindset, including identifying defects and process deviations.
• Strong organizational and time management skills to handle multiple tasks and priorities.
• Comfort working in a semi-cleanroom environment with required PPE and strict process controls.
• Ability to maintain composure and accuracy while handling repetitive tasks over long shifts.

Work Environment

The role is based in a semi-cleanroom manufacturing environment focused on silicon wafer production. Operators work 12-hour shifts on a compressed schedule, with day shifts from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and night shifts from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., alternating between 3 days on/4 days off and 4 days on/3 days off, which includes working every other weekend and additional overtime as needed. Night shift training may begin on day shift before transitioning to nights, and night shifts receive an additional shift differential. The work requires standing for most of the shift with no dedicated sitting or rest area while operating equipment. The environment involves working in close proximity to moving mechanical parts and around hazardous and volatile chemicals, with strong emphasis on safety and adherence to procedures. Required attire includes semi-cleanroom personal protective equipment such as safety glasses or goggles, hair net, gloves (latex, latex-free, or other acceptable types), safety shoes, and a two-piece scrub-style uniform provided for use in the facility. Operators use automated and robotic equipment, metrology tools, computers, and standard office devices such as calculators and copiers, all within a highly controlled, process-driven production setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Vancouver, WA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $19.00 - $26.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your jobclassification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may besubject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefitsavailable for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 31, 2026.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Vancouver,WA.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.