Wafer Tech (Project Tech)

Draper Labs; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 98,654 - 133,474; Full time

Job summary

Draper is an independent, nonprofit R&D company in Cambridge, MA seeking technicians who like hands‑on work with precision tools to support national defense and space systems. This is a fast‑paced role where attention to detail matters and improvements are valued.

You will operate and maintain fabrication equipment, work with engineers to troubleshoot, and document results while keeping thorough records. A technical degree and substantial hands‑on experience are preferred.

Qualifications

• Requires hands-on experience with fabrication equipment and cleanroom SOPs.
• Ability to follow detailed procedures and maintain records.
• Experience using basic computer tools for documentation.

Responsibilities

• Keep wafers moving through the cleanroom and run fabrication steps.
• Set up, operate, and maintain dry etch, photolithography, deposition, and wet chemistry tools.
• Collaborate with engineers to troubleshoot and improve processes.
• Assemble and test prototype hardware and document results.
• Maintain accurate records using Word/Excel.

Skills

MS Windows

MS Word

MS Excel

Communication

Education

2 Year Technical Degree

4 Year Degree

Technical Certificate(s)

15+ Years experience

Job description

Overview

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.

Job Description Summary

Are you the kind of person who likes working with your hands, running cool equipment, and being part of something bigger? We're looking for technicians who know their way around precision tools and want to help build technology that supports national defense, space systems, and more. This isn't a desk job; it's hands‑on, fast‑paced, and your attention to detail will make a real difference.

What You'll Do

• Keep wafers moving through the cleanroom, running fabrication steps from start to finish
• Set up, operate, and maintain tools like: Dry etch systems, Photolithography tools, Deposition equipment, Wet chemistry stations
• Work with engineers to troubleshoot issues, make process improvements, and keep things running smoothly
• Assemble and test parts for prototype hardware (mechanical and electrical)
• Keep accurate records using basic computer tools (Word, Excel)

What You Bring

• Solid hands‑on experience (2 years, or 2 years of tech school plus 2 years of work)
• Confidence running fabrication equipment and following SOP
• Comfort in a cleanroom or lab environment
• Focused, careful work habits and good communication

Second Shift Hours: 11am - 7:30 pm

Job Description

Duties/Responsibilities

• With limited or no supervision, carefully documents their own work consistent with work unit policy in handwritten form or using common computer‑based software.
• Performs scientific experiments and/or tests with complex laboratory equipment independently or in collaboration with senior technical personnel.
• Applies analytic and test experience in the execution of acceptance procedures independently or in collaboration with senior technical personnel.
• Programs computer controlled automated and semi‑automated equipment.
• At the discretion of the supervisor, performs focused training to grow and enhance skills for betterment of the department or the Laboratory as a whole.
• As needed, mentor, train or supervise more junior technicians.
• Other temporary assignments at the discretion of the supervisor.

Skills/Abilities

• Proficiency with Microsoft Applications; MS Windows, Word, Excel etc.
• Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing.
• Possess highly specialized skills for production for assigned work area.
• Possess a high degree of attention to detail.

Experience / Education

• Requires 2 Year Technical Degree + 10 Years experience, OR 4 Year Degree + 10 Years experience, OR Relevant Technical Certificate(s) + 10 Years experience, OR 15+ Years experience

Additional Job Description

Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.

Job Location

Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139-3563

Salary

The US base salary range for this full‑time position is $55.80 - $55.80. Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job‑related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement's approved rates by location and role. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process. Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonuses or benefits.

EEO Statement

Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high‑performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact [e-mail].