Production Operator (Etch)

Production Operator (Etch)

Vancouver, WA

Job Description

This Production Operator operates multiple pieces of manufacturing equipment to perform chemical etching processes on silicon wafers in a semi-cleanroom environment. This role follows detailed production procedures, handles hazardous and volatile chemicals safely, and maintains high quality standards while meeting daily production targets. The operator documents all activities accurately, supports continuous improvement, and rotates through multiple process areas after cross-training and certification.

Responsibilities

• Operate multiple manual and automated machines to perform chemical etching processes for silicon wafer manufacturing.
• Follow complex, detailed procedures and work instructions to complete all process steps accurately and on time.
• Review work orders, verify requirements, and load materials onto the appropriate machinery according to customer specifications.
• Input correct process recipes into equipment using a computer keyboard or manual controls.
• Use computer systems to operate manufacturing tools, input data, track and confirm each process step, and complete electronic forms and labels.
• Create concise, detailed reports on shift activities, tool performance, and any process events or issues.
• Continuously monitor, analyze, and verify that all data and process parameters meet quality specifications before moving material to the next step.
• Exercise judgment and critical thinking to approve or reject ingots and materials that do not meet specifications.
• Operate robotic equipment to lift, unload, raise, lower, and transport materials, products, and equipment.
• Use carts on wheels to transport materials and equipment weighing from approximately 50 pounds up to about 500 pounds by pushing and pulling.
• Lift up to 50 pounds repeatedly throughout the shift and perform tasks that require standing and sitting for long periods during a 12-hour shift.
• Perform routine cleaning of equipment and work areas to meet cleanroom and 5S standards.
• Follow all documented training, procedures, and processes to maintain quality and cleanroom requirements.
• Report and take action to prevent or stop variations, errors, or lapses in quality.
• Ensure quality issues are documented, corrected, and not repeated by following established procedures.
• Identify and communicate suggestions for process, safety, or quality improvements to supervision or appropriate contacts.
• Develop and maintain skills to correctly operate a variety of manufacturing equipment and tools.
• Work safely around hazardous and volatile chemicals while using appropriate personal protective equipment.
• Communicate effectively with management and co-workers to coordinate work, share status, and resolve issues.
• Work collaboratively as part of a team while also staying self-motivated and self-directed when working independently.
• Support minor machine maintenance, upkeep, and basic troubleshooting using mechanical aptitude.
• Maintain organization, manage time effectively, and multitask to meet production schedules and daily targets.

Essential Skills

• Ability to follow complex, detailed procedures and written instructions accurately.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality assurance in a production environment.
• Ability to multitask and manage time effectively in a fast-paced, 12-hour shift setting.
• Comfort working around hazardous and volatile chemicals while following safety protocols.
• Capability to use a computer, keyboard, and monitor proficiently for data entry, equipment operation, and documentation.
• Ability to complete computerized forms, labels, and reports with accuracy and clarity.
• Basic computer skills with experience using software such as Microsoft Excel and Outlook or similar applications.
• Ability to operate basic office equipment such as a calculator and telephone.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills to interact with supervisors and co-workers.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds repeatedly and to push or pull carts with loads up to approximately 500 pounds.
• Ability to stand and sit for extended periods during a 12-hour shift.
• Capability to operate manual and automated manufacturing equipment and robotic handling tools after training.
• Strong organizational skills and reliability in completing assigned tasks.
• Ability to work well with others as part of a team while also working independently when required.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Prior production or manufacturing experience is preferred.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude is highly preferred, especially for minor machine maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Experience in semiconductor or similar processing environments is beneficial.
• Background in machine operation, warehouse, or industrial settings is advantageous.
• Proven ability to maintain high levels of safety awareness in a noisy, equipment-intensive environment.
• Demonstrated ability to stay organized, detail-oriented, and team-oriented under changing priorities.
• Willingness to learn, be trained across multiple process areas, and pursue cross-certification.
• Comfort working 12-hour shifts on a compressed workweek schedule, including every other weekend and potential overtime.

Why Work Here?

You join a high-tech manufacturing environment that values safety, quality, and continuous improvement while offering structured training and cross-training opportunities. The compressed workweek schedule provides extended periods of time off, and night shift roles include an additional shift differential incentive. You work with modern equipment and clear procedures, supported by a collaborative team culture that encourages learning, skill development, and sharing ideas for process improvements.

Work Environment

The role is based in a semi-cleanroom, traditional shop-type manufacturing environment that can be noisy and occasionally dirty due to equipment and processes. Operators work 12-hour shifts, either 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. for day shift or 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. for night shift, on a compressed 3-on/4-off and 4-on/3-off weekly schedule that includes every other weekend and may require additional overtime. Night shift employees receive an additional 15% shift differential incentive, and training for night shift may initially occur on day shift for several weeks. The work involves standing and sitting for long periods, lifting up to 50 pounds, and pushing or pulling carts with loads up to approximately 500 pounds. The environment requires consistent use of personal protective equipment, including safety glasses or goggles, hair covering, latex or nitrile and nylon gloves, company-provided uniform, and safety shoes or chemical-resistant safety shoes; ear plugs are available for optional use. The facility follows cleanroom and 5S standards, with regular equipment and area cleaning to maintain organization, cleanliness, and safety.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Vancouver, WA.

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $25.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Vancouver,WA.

This position is anticipated to close on May 11, 2026.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.