Experienced Vacuum Pump Engineer

About Samsung Austin Semiconductor

Samsung is a world leader in advanced semiconductor technology, founded on the belief that the pursuit of excellence creates a better world. At Samsung Austin Semiconductor, we are Innovating Today to Power the Devices of Tomorrow.

Come innovate with us!

Position Summary

A Vacuum Pump Engineer is the technical lead for the entire life cycle of vacuum equipment and peripheral components from initial concept through operation and decommissioning. The role demands deep knowledge of pump physics, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and control systems, combined with a hands‑on ability to troubleshoot and optimize real‑world plant equipment.

The engineer works cross‑functionally with process, maintenance, quality, and capital‑project teams to ensure reliable vacuum operation, minimal downtime, and energy efficiency while meeting safety and regulatory standards.

Role and Responsibilities

Here’s What You’ll Be Responsible For:

Pump Design & Selection

Perform pump‑type feasibility studies.

Develop sizing calculations using throughput, pressure‑drop, and vacuum‑gain relationships.

Evaluate integration with fore lines, and instrumentation.

Installation & Commissioning

Plan and execute installation schedules with line‑construction crews.

Verify valve logic, motor starts, and leak detection (WT, PCT, helium sniffing).

Validate performance against specified base pressure, pumping speed, and cycle time.

Operation & Monitoring

Program and maintain control logic with PID tuning, safety interlocks, and alarm hierarchies (IPCS, FDC).

Analyze real‑time telemetry (pressure, temperature, flow, vibration) to detect trends or impending failures.

Maintenance & Reliability

Compile and utilize equipment reliability and survival data analyses to make decisions.

Author preventive‑maintenance schedules based on usage hours, manufacturer recommendations, and failure‑mode analyses.

Perform root‑cause investigations using FMEA, 5‑Why, and vibration/temperature diagnostics.Interface with procurement to secure critical spares.

Performance Optimization

Identify and implement upgrades such as ROI on replacement of defunct models.

Collaborate with process engineers to harmonize pump cycles with fixed‑slot equipment and batch timing.

Conduct periodic trade‑off simulations (economics vs. vacuum margins) and present ROI to finance.

Safety & Compliance

Ensure all pumps meet ISO, or industry‑specific safety standards (e.g., OSHA, DOT).

Maintain lock‑out/tag‑out (LOTO) and hydrogen‑flame‑proof workflows for high‑vacuum systems.

Provide training and competency logs for all operators.

Documentation & Reporting

Produce and maintain operating manuals, SOPs, and fleet records.Submit monthly KPI dashboards (pump uptime, mean‑time‑between‑failure).

Record all incident reports for audit purposes.

Stakeholder Collaboration

Serve as the technical liaison for technology‑transfer, new‑buyer integration, and vendor-commission workshops.Participate in cross‑functional project teams for plant upgrades or new fabs.

Deliver status updates at plant‑wide huddles and design reviews.

Skills and Qualifications

Here's what you'll need:

Education: Bachelor of Engineering (BS/MEng) in Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial, or Process Engineering.

Experience: 3–5 years of hands‑on experience with vacuum systems in semiconductor, pharmaceutical, or high‑purity manufacturing settings. Proven track record in pump selection, installation, commissioning, and maintenance. Experience with auto‑gate valves, hot‑N₂ injection systems, vacuum lines, or exhaust lines to scrubbing equipment is highly desirable.

Certifications: Six‑Sigma Green or Black Belt (preferred).ISO 9001 Lead Auditor or similar (optional, but a plus).

Technical Skills: Proficiency in CAD (AutoCAD/ SolidWorks) for piping and mounting layouts.Experience with simulation tools (MATLAB).

Soft Skills: Strong analytical reasoning and problem‑solving ability. Proactive team player with excellent written and verbal communication. Capable of managing multiple projects and prioritizing tasks in a fast‑paced environment.

The current base salary range for this role is between $95,000 - $120,000. Individual base pay rates will depend on factors including duties, work location, education, skills, qualifications and experience. Total compensation for this position will include a competitive benefits package and may include participation in company incentive compensation programs, which are based on factors to include organizational and individual performance .