Tech Directions- October 2008

career directions SEMICONDUCTOR PROCESSORS Operators and Technicians Semiconductors (also known as integrated circuits, computer chips, and microchips) are the miniature but powerful brains of high-technology equipment. Semiconductors are composed of innumerable tiny aluminum or copper lines and electric switches, which manipulate the ﬂow of electrical current. Semiconductors and devices utilizing them are found in nearly every electronic product made today, from missile guidance systems to personal computers, DVD players, cell phones, household appliances, and video games. The manufacturing of semiconductors and microelectronics devices requires the efforts of a variety of people, from the engineers who design them, to the technicians who process, construct, and test them. Semiconductor materials get their name from the fact that they can be treated to act with properties between that of an insulator, which does not conduct electrical current, and that of a true conductor of electrical current, such as metal. Manufacturing semiconductors is a difﬁcult and complex process. Semiconductor processors usually specialize in one part of the larger manufacturing process. To manufacture computer chips, ﬁrst semiconductor disks, or wafers, of varying sizes are manufactured. The circuitry of the microchips is layered on the wafers. When the circuitry is completed, each wafer is cut into many individual chips. Training High School Mathematics, including statistics ● English ● Electronics ● Physical science ● Computer science ● Chemistry ● Physics ● Technology education Semiconductor processors—both operators and technicians—need a solid background in mathematics and the physical sciences. In addition to applying these disciplines to the manufacturing processes performed in fabricating plants, math and science knowledge is essential for pursuing higher education in semiconductor technology and advancing in the ﬁeld. Semiconductor processor workers must also be able to think analytically and critically to anticipate problems and avoid costly mistakes. Good communication skills are vital. Workers must be able to convey their thoughts and ideas both orally and in writing. ● Postsecondary Employers prefer applicants who have completed an associate degree, often in semiconductor manufacturing technology. However, experience plus completion of a one-year certiﬁcate program in semiconductor technology, offered by some community colleges and technical schools, may be sufﬁcient. Some semiconductor technology programs include internships at semiconductor fabricating plants. Other applicants may qualify by completing a degree in high-tech manufacturing. Hands-on training is an important part of degree and certiﬁcate programs. To ensure that operators and technicians keep their skills current, employers provide regular on-the-job training. Some also provide ﬁnancial assistance to employees wishing to earn an associate or bachelor’s degree, with an eye toward becoming a technician. $$$$ Wages Earnings vary depending on education and training and the difﬁculty of the tasks performed. Hourly wages range from $8.45 to $17.90. In general, workers with 1–4 years experience earn $13.95, 10–19 years, $17.22, and 20 or more years, $20.23. Technicians with an associate degree in electronics or semiconductor technology generally start at higher salaries than those with less education. Semiconductor processors received good beneﬁts packages, including health care, stock options, and a retirement plan. 22 techdirections ◆ OCTOBER 2008

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