What Kind of Career Can You Expect?
Semiconductor manufacturing technicians facilitate the production of semiconductor devices. The profession is a blend of chemical, mechanical, and problem-solving skills, which are required to optimize the manufacture of integrated circuit components such as memory circuits, microprocessors, logic circuits, and integrated sensor products.
What is the Outlook for Job Opportunities and Pay?
Semiconductor manufacturing is one of the major industries in Idaho. Two major manufacturers and several support firms are located in the Boise area, with potential for more firms to locate here in the future. Considerable growth in this industry can be expected in the years ahead and the demand for skilled process and support technicians is expected to rise considerably—with a projection for 40,000 new technicians needed nationwide within the next five years.
Hiring and salary opportunities are excellent, with very good job benefits available.
What Skills, Traits, or Prep Classes Would be Helpful?
– Interest in the latest technologies
– Mechanical aptitude
– Manual dexterity
– Solid background in math and science
– Keyboard proficiency and computer experience
– Good oral and written communication skills
What Will You Learn to Do?
– Prepare and process semiconductor wafer products, including discrete semiconductor devices, integrated circuits, and integrated transducer products
– Understand and apply pneumatic, vacuum, and RF theory as it applies to semiconductor manufacturing
– Understand how electrical and mechanical systems communicate with each other
– Maintain and work within a cleanroom environment
– Use and control automated manufacturing equipment
– Understand and apply theories of electronics, digital electronics,transistors, and solid state devices
– Utilize math, science, and statistical process control
– Understand and apply robotics and PLCs
– Use computer systems and write technical documents
The program includes classroom and hands-on training in state-of-the-art labs. After the Associate degree, a four-year Bachelor of Applied Science option is available.
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