Overview of Role

As a Principal Engineer in TSMC Corporate Research you will pursue world-class research in a team setting, advancing the state-of-the-art for exploratory materials and devices. This role will be "hands-on" to experimentally explore concepts for future generations of semiconductor electronics technology built on exploratory materials. You will report to the Deputy Director of Exploratory Materials and Devices Corporate Research Team. You would be expected to carry out hands-on laboratory work in process development for selective etching, deposition by ALD/CVD, as well as device fabrication and characterization. A background with selective-area chemistry and/or etch process development is a strong plus. You will have the opportunity to significantly impact the expansion of TSMC's business and grow as a future technical leader of the global research community. This role is based in San Jose, CA. We are currently operating in a hybrid work schedule with 4 days in office.

Responsibilities

• Seeking world-class researcher to develop processes for exploratory materials & devices.
• Work closely with device engineers to achieve performance targets
• Drive university and consortia collaboration on topics relevant to the job assignment
• Periodic reporting and internal communication of work
• Perform hands-on experiments both on-site and at off-site locations.

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD degree or equivalent in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or similar.
• Hands-on experience developing advance processes for materials deposition and etching recipes.
• Experience with characterization methods and data analysis
• Ability to work independently and collaborate with cross-functional teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on experience in an industrial environment involving lab work
• Using AI/ML to enhance process discovery
• Experience in setting up research equipment and programming on tool control and data collection
• World-class publication track record and excellent communication skills.

Pay Transparency / Benefits statement

At TSMC, your base pay is only part of your overall total compensation package. At the time of this posting, this role typically pays a base salary between $125,000 and $180,000 per year. The range displayed reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hires. Actual pay may be more or less than the posted range. Factors that influence pay include the individual's skills, qualifications, education, experience and the position level and location. TSMC's total compensation package consists of market competitive pay, allowances, bonuses, and comprehensive benefits. We also offer extensive development opportunities and programs.

Date: Sep 10, 2026

Country/Region: US

City: San Jose

Company: TSMC Technology, Inc.