Semiconductor Process Engineer
Work on the machines and processes that make computer chips — some of the most precise engineering on earth.
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- Typical pay
- €42k–€80k
- Usual education
- Degree
- Outlook
- Very strong in the Netherlands, Germany and Ireland as Europe invests in chip making.
A day in the life
Analyse yield data from the fab, tweak a process step, run an experiment in the cleanroom, and write up results for the team.
Ways in
- Physics, chemistry or engineering degree
- Technician apprenticeship then upskilling
- Graduate scheme
What to study at 16
The subjects you choose for the final years of secondary school can shape which degrees, exams and careers are easiest to reach. This is about choosing courses, not choosing a school.
Spain
Bachillerato de Ciencias y Tecnología
Portugal
Ciências e Tecnologias
France
Bac général — spécialités
Germany
Oberstufe — Leistungskurse
Italy
Liceo scientifico
Netherlands
Profiel Natuur & Techniek
Skills that matter
Best courses to take
The study routes that lead most directly into this career.
BEng Robotics & Mechatronics
Mechanical, electronic and software engineering combined for automated systems.
Useful for fab automation roles.
Helpful school subjects: Maths, Physics, Design technology
BEng Electrical & Electronic Engineering
Circuits, signals and hardware — the base for chips, robotics and energy tech.
The core discipline for chip fabrication.
Helpful school subjects: Maths, Physics