Principal Equipment 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 Equipment Engineer (m/f/d)

As a Principal Equipment Engineer, this role serves as a key technical expert and assistant supervisor within the equipment engineering department. The lead supports department supervisors by managing the engineering team, formulating structured work plans, and assigning tasks. Through systemic leadership, the lead ensures the equipment fleet is technologically advanced, cost-effective, and fully aligned with the company's long-term operational and strategic goals.

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

• Strategic Roadmap and Technology Execution: The lead defines and implements long-term equipment roadmaps and upgrades in close collaboration with R&D, Process Development, and manufacturing teams. By planning strategies for equipment technology enhancement and management, they ensure the toolset supports future technology nodes and aligns with long-term company goals.
• Equipment Evaluation, Selection, and Lifecycle Management: This role leads the technical evaluation, selection, and qualification of next-generation manufacturing equipment. The lead oversees the introduction of new assets, develops long-term equipment operation plans, and manages the entire lifecycle to support advanced technology development.
• Systemic Problem Solving and Maintenance Compliance: The position is responsible for analyzing and resolving the most complex equipment failures and challenges impacting yield, product quality, and Cost of Ownership (CoO). The lead oversees all maintenance, repairs, and modifications, ensuring stable production and strict compliance with quality, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Vendor Interface and Cross-Functional Project Management: Serving as the primary technical partner with equipment vendors, the lead negotiates technical specifications and drives supplier accountability for equipment performance. They lead cross-functional task forces and engineering projects, ensuring successful system integration and seamless communication among internal stakeholders and external suppliers.
• Team Development and Decision Support: The lead designs, develops, and delivers advanced technical training programs to promote the engineering and technician team's capabilities. Additionally, they provide professional technical reports and solutions to support executive leadership in making critical equipment technology and investment decisions.

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.