Introduction
Welcome back to the channel. Today's guest is a process integration engineer from a major US IDM (Integrated Device Manufacturer) located in Texas, and they have requested to remain anonymous. We'll be discussing the appeal of TSMC's new US fabs to American IDM engineers and whether Taiwan is at risk of a talent drain.
Working as a Process Integration Engineer in the US
How to Get a Job at a US IDM
To work at a US IDM without US citizenship, typically requires first pursuing higher education in the US. Graduates with engineering degrees usually receive a three-year work permit. It's crucial to secure a job within three months of graduation using the student F1 visa. After securing employment, companies may sponsor work visas or green card applications. A relevant engineering degree is generally required for engineering roles.
Work Environment
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Location: The guest works in Texas.
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Nationality: There are few Taiwanese or Chinese colleagues at the factory, but more in R&D.
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Job Market: The ease of finding a job depends on the economic climate. Currently, hiring is slow. It was easier around 2021-2022 due to post-pandemic conditions.
Job Satisfaction and Work-Life Balance
The guest conveys happiness with the job and work-life balance. Factory work has a faster-paced environment where projects are completed more quickly. A good work-life balance is important.
Education and Skills
Relevant Coursework
The guest studied electrical engineering. Semiconductor device physics is an important subject, especially understanding process flows, CMOS, transistor behavior, and leakage currents.
Motivation for Studying in the US
The guest wanted to experience a different environment and obtain a master's degree abroad, rather than stay in Taiwan.
Application Process
The application process involves submitting English proficiency scores, academic transcripts, and recommendation letters. A high TOEFL score increases your chances of acceptance.
US Work Culture and Opportunities
Visa Sponsorship
Companies may sponsor visas like NIW or PERM to help employees stay in the US. Inquire about visa sponsorship during the hiring process, as not all positions offer it. Marriage to a US citizen is the fastest way to obtain a green card.
Perceptions and Challenges
Securing a US work visa has become more difficult. PhD holders might find it easier than master's degree holders due to their research and publications.
Company Culture at US IDMs
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Hiring: Hiring has slowed down recently.
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Employee Benefits: There are no year-end parties, company trips, or company-sponsored meals.
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Commuting: Driving is the primary mode of transportation.
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Night Shifts: Driving at night is safe due to less traffic.
Driving in Texas
Texas driving is friendly to drivers with generally less traffic. Be aware of speed limits and police presence, especially at night.
Responsibilities as a Process Integration Engineer
Role and Responsibilities
The guest is a process integration engineer working on mature products with stable yields. Tasks involve troubleshooting issues, analyzing data, and resolving problems related to manufacturing processes. Senior engineers focus on newer, more innovative products still in the R&D phase.
Common Issues and Challenges
Problems may be related to machine issues, and solutions can sometimes be unpredictable.
Problem Reporting and Analysis
Documenting and reporting issues is essential, even if the cause is unknown. It’s important to monitor repeating issues.
IDM vs. Foundry Models
In an IDM, process engineers can sometimes tolerate slight deviations as long as product testing passes. Foundries, on the other hand, must adhere to stricter standards due to customer quality expectations.
Departmental Hierarchy
Within the company, operations (manufacturing) has significant influence, followed by product engineering. Process integration and process engineering have less influence, but can exert authority when they have substantial evidence.
Wafer Scrap
Wafer scrapping does occur, especially due to issues detected during electrical testing.
Improving Yields
The team troubleshoots problems, but the guest expresses some frustration with a lack of interest in improvement from others.
Daily Workflow
The daily routine includes reviewing electrical testing data to identify shifts or anomalies that may indicate problems.
Inline Spec Control
Tightening inline specs is often met with resistance due to potential disruptions.
Career Reflections
Regrets?
The guest does not regret choosing a material science track over design. Design careers create excessive psychological pressure. Software and IC design engineers tend to earn more than process/manufacturing engineers. The career ceiling for design is higher.
Advice
“Value your life, stay away from manufacturing.”