Semiconductor Processing Technicians
O*NET 51-9141.00 · SOC 51-9141
Semiconductor Processing Technician is a solid career choice. Median pay is $51k a year with +8.2% projected growth through 2035 (faster than average) and about 3,400 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Load silicon wafers into diffusion furnaces for processing
- →Monitor chemical bath concentrations used in wafer etching
- →Operate photolithography equipment to transfer circuit patterns
- →Inspect wafers under microscopes for defects or contamination
- →Record process parameters and batch data in production logs
Education & How to Get In
Semiconductor Processing Technician roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths, you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Semiconductor Processing Technician involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Semiconductor Processing Technician?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Semiconductor Processing Technician Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Semiconductor Processing Technicians is projected to grow 8.2% from 2025 to 2035, faster than average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·48% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·39% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Semiconductor Processing Technician make?
The median Semiconductor Processing Technician earns $51k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Semiconductor Processing Technician jobs?
Our model puts Semiconductor Processing Technician at 57 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 48% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 39% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Semiconductor Processing Technician a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 8.2% between 2025 and 2035, which is faster than average. That works out to roughly 3,400 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Semiconductor Processing Technician?
Most Semiconductor Processing Technician roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become a Semiconductor Processing Technician?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Semiconductor Processing Technician career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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