Staff Equipment Engineer, CMP

About STMicroelectronics

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader delivering innovative technology and chips that power today’s connected world. Operating across 40 countries with a team of over 49,000 collaborators representing 122 nationalities, ST fosters an inclusive and collaborative environment focused on innovation, respect, and responsible growth toward a sustainable future.

Role Summary

The Staff Equipment Engineer specialized in Chemical Mechanical Planarization (CMP) is tasked with ensuring peak performance, reliability, and consistency of CMP production equipment. This position is integral to sustaining daily fab operations through equipment troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, installation, and system commissioning. The engineer will champion continuous improvement efforts to maintain process integrity, product quality, high equipment uptime, and streamline industrialization processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Continuously monitor CMP equipment status by analyzing tooling data to detect abnormalities, investigate root causes, and implement corrective actions.
• Lead prompt troubleshooting and fault isolation activities to minimize equipment downtime and uphold smooth production.
• Conduct routine inspections, scheduled preventive maintenance, and address corrective repairs to sustain tool stability and availability.
• Assist in defect and excursion investigations, escalating critical issues and managing material review procedures when necessary.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with process engineers, quality assurance, production teams, facilities, and suppliers to enhance equipment reliability and production line stability.
• Participate in the evaluation, installation, qualification, and industrialization of new equipment to guarantee seamless setup and process integration.
• Coordinate installation and commissioning with facilities engineering and suppliers during equipment hook-up phases.
• Drive initiatives aimed at equipment performance enhancements, including hardware upgrades, and optimize overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
• Establish and maintain automated monitoring systems, defect databases, and tool data analysis solutions.
• Develop and update standard operating procedures (SOPs), preventive maintenance schedules, operational standards, and troubleshooting documentation.
• Design and provide technical training for manufacturing operators to boost competency and proper equipment operation.
• Manage spare parts and consumables inventory, performing demand forecasting and stock planning to ensure budget adherence and parts availability.
• Ensure compliance with quality management systems, ISO standards, safety regulations, and cleanroom protocols in all operational and maintenance activities.
• Engage in continuous improvement, technology transfer, and industrialization projects to enhance operational excellence.
• Support advanced analytics initiatives leveraging data-driven problem solving and automation for process improvements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation, Electrical Engineering, Electronics, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or similar STEM discipline.
• Preferred prior experience working with CMP equipment engineering; familiarity with AMAT Mirra, Ebara Flex, Momentum, HWATSING, or comparable CMP tools is beneficial.
• Strong understanding of semiconductor manufacturing principles, CMP processes, and equipment maintenance techniques.
• Ability to interpret electrical schematics, pneumatic systems, and mechanical drawings accurately.
• Knowledge of CMP process workflows and adeptness in adjusting equipment settings per process needs.
• Skills in analyzing wafer surface defects, such as scratches and residues, and evaluating material removal rates.
• Hands-on experience with CMP equipment control software and robotic automation components maintenance.
• Proficient in data analysis with experience using relevant analytical tools considered an advantage.
• Demonstrated strong practical skills and willingness to work within cleanroom environments.
• Excellent communication, coordination, and collaborative teamwork abilities.
• Logical, methodical problem-solving aptitude with structured analysis abilities.
• Flexibility to work rotational shifts supporting continuous 24/7 production operations.

Diversity & Inclusion

ST is recognized as a 2026 Global Top Employer and is committed to maintaining a diverse and equitable workforce. The company encourages applications from individuals with varying backgrounds and perspectives and provides opportunities for development and learning within an inclusive work culture.