What does a career as a semiconductor technician actually look like? In the latest episode of the Talking Technicians podcast, Hans Felten, a supervisor in Lam Research’s scanning electron microscope (SEM) lab in Tualatin, Oregon, shares his journey into the semiconductor industry—and why technician roles are more important than ever.
Whether you’re a student, a career changer, or exploring hands-on roles in advanced technology, this episode offers a real-world perspective on building a rewarding semiconductor technician career at Lam.
What Does a Semiconductor Technician Do?
Semiconductor technicians play a critical role in developing and manufacturing the chips that power today’s technology.
At Lam Research, lab technicians:
- Operate advanced tools like SEMs
- Analyze materials and structures at the nanoscale
- Support engineers in product development and troubleshooting
- Help ensure tools meet customer expectations
Career Pathways: From Entry-Level to Leadership
Hans’s career path highlights the opportunities available in semiconductor technician roles.
At Lam, technicians can:
- Start in entry-level roles with technical training or associate degrees
- Build specialized expertise in areas like microscopy or process support
- Advance into leadership positions, including supervisory roles
Why Choose a Technician Career at Lam?
The podcast also explores the benefits of working at Lam Research, including:
- Competitive salary and benefits
- Comprehensive healthcare coverage
- Ongoing learning opportunities
- Hands-on experience with advanced semiconductor technology
- Clear pathways for career growth and advancement
For those interested in STEM careers without a traditional four-year engineering path, technician roles offer a rewarding and accessible entry point.
Listen to the Podcast
Hear Hans’ story and learn more about semiconductor careers. Listen to the episode here—or on your favorite podcast platform.
Note: If you are unable to see the YouTube player below, please accept cookies on your browser and it should appear.
Start Your Journey at Lam
Search for open technician roles—and many other jobs--at lamresearch.com/careers.
Talking Technicians is supported by the Micro Nano Technology Education Center (MNT-EC) and the National Science Foundation (NSF) Advanced Technological Education (ATE).