Semiconductor Processing Technicians
Semiconductor processing technicians perform tasks in the manufacture of electronic semiconductors, commonly known as integrated circuits or microchips, that are used in cars, smartphones, and other everyday devices.
Is semiconductor processing technicians a good career?
It scores 25/100 and ranks #206 of 825 occupations on pay, growth, employment and openings. Here's what the federal data says, with no editorializing.
Advantages
- Faster-than-average projected growth (+10.9% through 2034)
- No college degree typically required to enter
Possible tradeoffs
- Pays below the U.S. median wage ($51,430 vs $61,390)
What semiconductor processing technicians earn
Wages: BLS OEWS May 2025Pay is a range, not a number. Half of U.S. semiconductor processing technicians earn between $45,640 and $65,010 a year.
Best-paying states
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Strongest employment concentration
Live semiconductor processing technicians jobs
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- Typical education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Work experience
- None
- On-the-job training
- Moderate-term on-the-job training
- Outlook
- Employment is projected to grow much faster than average through 2034.
Education
Semiconductor processing technicians typically need a high school diploma to enter the occupation. High school students interested in becoming semiconductor processing technicians should take classes in mathematics, science, and electronics.
However, there are other paths to becoming a technician. For example, some candidates with a high school diploma complete a certificate program that prepares them to operate semiconductor processing equipment. Other candidates have an associate’s degree in a field such as industrial electronics technology or microelectronics. Postsecondary certificate and associate’s degree programs, which may include skills training, are usually offered at community colleges.
Some students gain hands-on experience through internships with local semiconductor processing facilities. These partnerships allow aspiring technicians to work in a cleanroom environment and observe processing activities such as wafer handling, quality control, and documentation, as well as to operate equipment. Employers may require candidates to have completed a skills program demonstrating their understanding of semiconductor production equipment.
Training
Newly hired semiconductor processing technicians typically receive on-the-job training. During this training, technicians learn how to work in a cleanroom, operate equipment, and test new microchips.
Length of training varies but typically lasts from 1 month to 1 year. Workers whose educational program included instruction on the equipment or techniques used in microchip manufacturing may need less on-the-job training.
Important qualities
Communication skills. Semiconductor processing technicians must be able to clearly convey to engineers and others their recommendations for improving the manufacturing process.
Computer skills. Semiconductor processing technicians must be able to modify specifications in programmable manufacturing equipment, such as to adjust for changes in robot sensing requirements.
Critical-thinking skills. Semiconductor processing technicians use logic and reasoning to uncover problems and determine solutions during the manufacturing process.
Detail oriented. Semiconductor processing technicians must be able to spot tiny imperfections because minor errors can ruin a microchip.
Dexterity. Semiconductor processing technicians must be able to make precise cuts and measurements with manufacturing tools and equipment.
Related occupations
How much do semiconductor processing technicians make?
The national median wage is $51,430 a year, with the middle half earning between $45,640 and $65,010 (BLS OEWS May 2025).
Is semiconductor processing technicians a good career?
On the Jobs.best index it scores 25 of 100 and ranks #206 of 825 occupations, weighing pay, growth, employment and openings. Employment is projected to change +10.9% through 2034.
What education do you need to become a semiconductor processing technician?
The typical entry-level education is high school diploma or equivalent.
Where do semiconductor processing technicians earn the most?
Among states, Arizona pays the highest median ($78,940). Local pay for every state and metro is below.