[Hiring] Field Service Engineer I @Oxford Instruments Plc

Role Description

Represent Oxford Instruments by delivering world-class technical support, installation, and maintenance for plasma etch and deposition systems (e.g., PlasmaPro, FlexAL, Estrelas etcher). This role demands a hands-on problem solver with strong technical acumen, clear communication skills, and a proactive mindset. You’ll collaborate across teams, escalate issues when needed, and maintain detailed documentation to support continuous improvement. With extensive travel across customer sites, you’ll play a critical role in driving customer satisfaction and advancing cutting-edge semiconductor technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• System Installation & Commissioning: Lead the installation and commissioning of advanced plasma etch and deposition systems (RIE, CVD, ICP, ICPCVD, ALE, ALD), ensuring full compliance with customer specifications, cleanroom standards, and process readiness.
• Preventive & Corrective Maintenance: Execute scheduled and emergency maintenance with precision. Diagnose root causes beyond surface-level symptoms and validate repairs against stringent vacuum tolerances, leak-up rates, and process benchmarks.
• Customer Engagement & Technical Training: Build trust and long-term relationships through responsive communication and hands-on training. Empower customers to operate and maintain systems confidently across key processes.
• Advanced Troubleshooting: Resolve complex hardware and software issues using specialized tools (vacuum leak detectors, RF power meters, DVMs, LCR meters, multimeters). Provide remote support when needed to minimize downtime and maximize uptime.
• Calibration & System Upgrades: Calibrate critical components (AMUs, RF Generators, APCs, MFCs) and implement performance-enhancing upgrades (turbo pumps, PLCs, breakers) to ensure optimal system reliability and throughput.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field. Equivalent hands-on experience in semiconductor equipment service may substitute.
• 5–7 years of field service experience in the semiconductor industry, with a focus on plasma etch and deposition systems.
• Familiarity with cleanroom operations and safety protocols.
• Hands-on experience with vacuum technologies: turbo pumps, cryo pumps, roughing pumps.
• Skilled in troubleshooting 208V electrical systems and 24V control subsystems.
• Extensive experience with RF power components and pneumatically driven systems.
• Proficient with diagnostic instruments: vacuum leak detectors, RF power meters, DVMs, LCR meters, multimeters, megohm meters.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical, pneumatic, and electrical schematics and plumbing diagrams.
• Strong understanding of RF theory and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) systems.
• Familiarity with semiconductor processes: RIE, PECVD, ICP, ALD.
• Hold a valid driver’s license and safe driving record, passport, and ability to travel independently.
• Must be physically agile and comfortable working in confined or awkward spaces.
• Capable of independently lifting and handling equipment weighing up to 50 lbs.
• Able to commit to extensive weekday travel to support customer installations and service needs, Monday through Friday.

Preferred Skills & Attributes

• Experience with Brooks platforms, Pfeiffer/Edwards pumping systems, and MKS components.
• Knowledge of calibration and optimization of APCs and MFCs.
• Strong manual dexterity and ability to maintain a clean, organized workspace in cleanroom attire.
• Proactive problem-solving and openness to continuous learning.
• Effective communicator with strong listening skills.
• Adaptable to evolving technologies and customer needs.
• Comfortable working independently or as part of a team.

What Sets You Apart: Commitment to Service Excellence

• Passion for solving complex technical challenges with precision and care.
• Proactive in anticipating customer needs and delivering timely, high-quality solutions.
• Builds trust through clear communication and confident issue resolution.
• Eager to learn, grow, and collaborate to uphold the highest standards of service.

Compensation

In accordance with Massachusetts law, the expected salary for this full-time, benefited position is between $100,000 - $120,000. The actual compensation will be determined considering factors such as relevant skills and experience and other factors permitted by law.