Principal Process Engineer (m/f/d)

Build Europe's semiconductor future with us!

European Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (ESMC) GmbH is the joint venture between TSMC, Bosch, Infineon and NXP. For the first time, global technology leader TSMC is building a semiconductor fab in the heart of Europe, offering cutting-edge manufacturing technologies for next-generation semiconductor products. ESMC represents a shared commitment to strengthening the European semiconductor ecosystem.

For our future fab in Dresden, we are looking for a highly motivated and committed: Principal Process Engineer (m/f/d)

As a Principal Process Engineer, you will independently perform advanced optimization and troubleshooting for critical semiconductor manufacturing processes, focusing on yield improvement and defect reduction. You will analyze complex technical problems and implement solutions to enhance process performance and efficiency.

As part of this position, you will have the unique opportunity to complete a comprehensive up to 9-month training assignment at our mother fab in Taiwan. This immersive program equips you with deep hands-on expertise in manufacturing processes, systems, production operations, and governance according to TSMCs word-leading practice — providing the foundation to operate independently and at expert level upon your return to Germany. The training will start shortly after the start date.

Job Responsibilities

• Support Team Operational Management: The role assists department supervisors in managing the process engineering team by formulating structured work plans, assigning tasks, and establishing training programs. Serving as the backup section manager, supporting operational continuity and maintains an engineering team meeting the company’s production demands.
• Process Troubleshooting and Yield Optimization: To maintain production stability, this position is responsible for analyzing, resolving, and preventing major process anomalies. The lead develops engineering solutions for complex challenges affecting product yield, reliability, and cost-of-ownership. By coordinating multi-disciplinary resources, they ensure module-specific issues are resolved and preventive actions are fully executed.
• Technology Node Development and Material Qualification: The lead drives the evaluation, selection, and qualification of new materials and manufacturing components to support future technology nodes. They propose strategic enhancements for process technologies to maintain competitiveness, conducting technical evaluations to safely integrate advanced materials into existing manufacturing flows.
• Vendor Management and Technical Interface: Serving as the primary technical interface with external material and equipment vendors, the lead negotiates material specifications, drives performance improvements, and leads technical exchanges. This collaboration ensures that incoming materials consistently meet the strict requirements of advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Compliance, Standardization, and Decision Support: The lead oversees the implementation of process standards to guarantee compliance with quality, safety, and environmental regulations. They collaborate with department managers, translating complex engineering data into professional technical reports. These assessments provide critical decision-making support for executive leadership regarding process modifications and strategic investments.

Your profile

• Bachelor degree and above with many years of experience (Master is preferred) ; Major in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics/ Applied Physics, Automation Technology / Control Systems Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Industrial Engineering
• Above experience should be in office or manufacturing work environment. Semiconductor work experiences will be a plus
• Available for "on-the-job" Training in Taiwan for up to 9 months.
• Professional proficiency in English is required; German language capability is highly advantageous.

Reasons to join ESMC

• Security & Perspective: A permanent employment contract and career advancement opportunities in one of Europe's leading semiconductors fabs.
• Company Pension Plan & Financial Benefits : We support your financial well-being with our robust company pension plan. As an ESMC employee, you also benefit directly from TSMC’s performance through an exclusive Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP).
• Relocation Support for Dresden: Moving for us? We’ll provide you with all the support you will need for your relocation and your start in Dresden.
• Training & Development: Depending on your position, you will gain a deeper understanding of the processes involved in operating complex semiconductor equipment through unique hands-on training at the TSMC Newcomer Training Center, while continuously expanding your knowledge.
• Health & Well-Being: An annual budget for your health and well-being (e.g., for sports classes, massages, or relaxation) helps you stay fit.
• Meals & Transportation: Enjoy a daily meal allowance as well as a subsidized public transportation (e.g., for the Deutschlandticket) in Germany.

About us

Each journey starts with a first step.
Joining ESMC at this early stage will provide you with the unique opportunity to actively shape the future of the fab in Dresden, boost your career and put your true potential to the test. You will be working in a fast paced, international startup environment whilst at the same time having access to the experience, talent, and resources of the largest and most advanced semiconductor manufacturer in the world, TSMC. You have ample opportunities to learn about TSMC Operations, Digital Transformation, and various advanced Facilities related topics, both in Taiwan and other sites around the world.
Behind the world’s most advanced technology are real people with real passion. Our success is fueled by our core values: Integrity, Commitment, Innovation and Customer Trust (ICIC).
We create a work environment that promotes diversity, ignites passion and enables you to reach your full potential.
At ESMC, we welcome applications from all people, regardless of race, ethnic origin, gender, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual identity.