Failure Analysis Equipment Technician

Failure Analysis Equipment Technician  

A career at TSMC Arizona offers an unparalleled opportunity to contribute to the most advanced semiconductor fabrication facility in the United States. TSMC Arizona's first fab began production with leading-edge N4 process technology in the first half of 2025. The second and third fabs, utilizing even more advanced process technology, will start production by 2028-2030. America's leading technology companies will rely on TSMC Arizona for the next generations of chips that will power the digital future.

Job Summary 

The Failure Analysis Equipment Technician focuses on immediate response to tool alarms, ensuring rapid equipment recovery and high tool availability. You will diagnose and resolve tool issues using SOPs and phone/text instructions from engineering or vendor support as the first line of defense. This role requires strong analytical skills and collaboration to minimize downtime in our 24/7 high-volume manufacturing environment. You will also assist with new tool installation, facility hook-up coordination, and tool commissioning. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to collaborate closely with engineers on continuous improvement projects, helping to optimize workflows and equipment recipes. We seek a reliable, enthusiastic team member who possesses an attitude that embodies our core values – Integrity, Commitment, Innovation, and Customer Trust.  

Responsibilities:  

• Performing preventive maintenance activities on various failure analysis lab equipment such as FIB, TEM, SEM, SIMS, OM etc.
• Performing first-line tool troubleshooting and Escalation: Act as the first line of defense to minimize equipment downtime by diagnosing and resolving basic to intermediate technical issues on laboratory instruments according to safety guidelines and SOPs. Perform standard troubleshooting; if unresolved, efficiently document failure details (such as error logs and symptoms) to escalate and coordinate with instrument vendors for advanced repairs.
• Lab Construction Coordination & Field Inspection (New Lab Startup):

• Execute and support new laboratory setup projects based on engineering designs and specifications.
• Inspect the field construction site to monitor progress, ensuring that the physical layout, floor load-bearing setup, and clearances align with the engineering blueprint and equipment specs.
• Coordinate directly with Facilities (FAC) teams and third-party contractors on-site to facilitate the accurate routing and installation of utilities (power, exhaust, drainage, and specialty gases).
• Act as the eyes and ears on the construction field: perform safety walks, monitor contractor compliance with TSMC safety standards, and immediately escalate any deviations or utility installation bottlenecks to Engineers/Managers.

• Equipment Hook-up Support & Commissioning: Assist in the setup of new laboratory instruments and new lab startup, including unboxing, precision positioning, and aligning machine-side interfaces. Coordinate closely with the Facilities (FAC) team for utility connections (such as power, gases, drainage) and assist vendor with Site Acceptance Testing (SAT).

• Consumables & spart parts Inventory Tracking: Manage and track laboratory consumables (e.g., ion sources, TEM grid, meshes, vacuum oil, apertures) and spare parts, maintaining accurate records using our Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and computerized maintenance systems.
• Continuous Improvement Projects (Optional): Collaborate with engineers on special improvement initiatives. For interested or qualified technicians, this includes studying vendor resources to deeply understand tools and operating procedures, and helping propose, test, and implement workflow optimizations and recipe adjustments.
• Production & analysis support: Provide production support as needed, including sample preparation, imaging, and material analysis to support the lab's daily throughput and operational demands. 

• Handle chemicals safely and in accordance with established PPE protocols.
• Maintain laboratory housekeeping (6S) environment and protocols.
• Performing activities in a safe and responsible manner and supporting Environment, Health, Safety & Security requirements and programs

Minimum Qualifications/Requirements:  

• Education:
• Associate’s degree (A.A.S.) or Bachelor’s (BS) degree in Science (Mechanic, Chemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, Mechanical, or Electrical Technology, Electronics, Vacuum Technology, Materials Science or a related scientific field.
• Technical Skills:
• Required Qualifications:
• Basic PC skills (MS Windows OS and MS Office).
• Familiarity with maintenance and inventory tracking.
• Preferred Qualifications:
• Hands-on experience in a semiconductor cleanroom, high-tech manufacturing, or laboratory environment.
• On-site construction monitoring, tool hook-up coordination, or field inspection experience.
• Hands-on experience operating or maintaining analytical instruments such as FIB, SEM, SIMS, TEM etc.
• Ability to read, interpret, and follow technical drawings, blueprints, instrument specifications, and P&ID diagrams.
• Interpersonal Skills:
• Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines.
• Must be a team player with a positive attitude and strong work ethic.
• Ability to handle pressure in a fast-paced working environment.
• Physical Requirements:
• Must be able to move or lift items weighing up to [50] lbs.
• Ability to remain in a stationary position or move throughout the facility for extended periods.
• Must be able to work inside cleanroom environment (wearing full cleanroom bunny suit)

Shift expectations:

• (Technician) TSMC Arizona operates 24/7, 365 days a year. This position requires candidate to have ability and willingness to work any shift (day or night) in a compressed work week schedule once training is done. The compressed work week shift structure is Work 4 days on, 3 days off for one week and 3 days on, 4 days off the next week. Shift is 12 hour shifts from 6am to 6pm or 6pm to 6am.
• Be able to work night and weekend shifts when assigned and work overtime if needed.

Application Consideration Consent: By applying to this position, I acknowledge and agree that my application and qualifications may be considered for other roles within the company. However, I reserve the right to withdraw my consent for future consideration of other roles within the company at any time.  

Candidates must be willing and able to work on-site at our Phoenix Arizona facility.  

As a valued member of the TSMC family, we place a significant focus on your health and well-being. When you are at your best—physically, mentally, and financially—our company thrives. TSMC offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits program that includes:  

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans: Choose the options that best fit your and your family’s needs.
• Income-Protection Programs: Financial assistance during injury or illness.
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan: Secure your financial future with competitive employer contributions.
• Paid Time-Off Programs and Holidays: Recharge and spend quality time with loved ones.

Work Location: 5088 W. Innovation Circle, Phoenix, AZ 85083  

TSMC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply and welcome applications from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. If you need an accommodation as part of the application process, please contact P_LOA@tsmc.com   

TSMC Arizona maintains the right to change or assign other duties to this position  

All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of TSMC Arizona’s pre-employment screening process. This process may include verifying the candidate’s identity, confirming legal authorization to work in the offered position's location, educational background and a comprehensive background check, where permitted by local regulations.