Cleanroom Production Operator (CMP)

Job Title:

Cleanroom Production Operator (CMP) Job Description This role operates in a fast-paced, high-tech manufacturing environment, performing Chemical Mechanical Polishing (CMP) processes for silicon wafer production in a cleanroom setting. You will follow detailed procedures, operate automated equipment, and complete precise documentation to ensure wafers meet strict customer specifications. The position works a 12.5-hour day shift from 5:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on a compressed schedule, alternating between 3 days on/4 days off and 4 days on/3 days off, including every other weekend and potential overtime. Responsibilities Perform Chemical Mechanical Polishing (CMP) processes on silicon wafers according to detailed, documented procedures and customer-specific requirements. Follow complex, computerized work orders and ensure wafers are processed accurately and on schedule to meet daily production targets. Move boxes of wafers from inventory locations to transport carts and from transport carts to automated process equipment by bending, stooping, squatting, lifting, and reaching as needed. Push, pull, and guide ceramic polishing tables to and from process equipment and holding racks, exerting up to 50 lbs. of force occasionally and 10-20 lbs. frequently. Push wheeled carts weighing approximately 20 lbs. on a regular basis and up to approximately 400 lbs. on occasion. Stand for long periods throughout a 12-hour shift while walking, standing, and remaining in motion to perform production tasks. Use repetitive motions of wrists, hands, and fingers to handle wafers, operate tools, and interact with equipment controls. Work safely around hazardous and volatile chemicals while following all safety procedures and using appropriate PPE. Work in close proximity with other team members in shared areas and independently in specific areas as required. Use hand tools such as Allen wrenches to perform head and table changes on CMP tools and to support equipment adjustments. Complete required training and achieve at least Level 1 Certification in the assigned work area, typically within 30 days. Perform daily monitors on each process tool and verify that all monitor data meets established process specifications. Continuously monitor, analyze, and verify process and equipment data to ensure all operations meet quality and process standards. Operate robotic and automated equipment to load and unload wafers, tools, and related equipment safely and accurately. Respond to and troubleshoot tool alarms, taking appropriate action to resolve issues or escalate when necessary. Perform routine cleaning of equipment and work areas to maintain cleanroom and process standards. Multi-task by monitoring wafer movement across multiple tool sets simultaneously while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail. Visually inspect polishing pads and heads for pen marks, bubbles, wrinkles, or other defects and take action when defects are found. Count wafers in each box and verify counts against the quantities listed in the Manufacturing Execution System (MES) and on box travelers at load and unload points. Visually verify that cassettes are placed properly on tools, in the correct station and position, when manually loading them. Prepare, review, and analyze data; perform extensive reading; and visually inspect small parts, errors, defects, words, and numbers for accuracy. Follow all documented training, procedures, and processes to consistently meet quality standards. Report any variations, errors, or lapses in quality immediately and take action to prevent recurrence. Identify and communicate suggestions for process or quality improvements to supervisors or appropriate leaders. Complete all tasks using safe work practices and prioritize safety ahead of deadlines or production goals. Act as a safety role model by encouraging safe behaviors and helping maintain a strong safety culture with coworkers. Maintain high safety awareness when working near moving mechanical parts and other potential hazards. Use email and Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, to enter data, track processes, and complete computerized forms. Input data accurately into computer systems to track wafer processing, confirm process steps, and maintain production records. Operate basic office and communication equipment such as calculators, copiers, cell phones, and telephones as needed. Communicate effectively in English with management and coworkers to clarify instructions, report issues, and support teamwork. Read, write, comprehend, and explain instructions, procedures, technical manuals, reports, and correspondence in English. Perform basic math functions, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and computation of percentages and decimals using calculators or Excel. Adhere to attendance, advance notice, and call-in policies, including working all required hours, shifts, and overtime as requested. Essential Skills Ability to work 12.5-hour day shifts from 5:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on a compressed 3-on/4-off and 4-on/3-off schedule, including every other weekend and overtime as required. Physical ability to bend, stoop, squat, lift, and reach to move boxes of wafers and related materials throughout the shift. Capability to exert up to 50 lbs. of force occasionally, 10-20 lbs. frequently, and 10 lbs. constantly to move objects and equipment. Ability to push wheeled carts weighing approximately 20 lbs. regularly and up to approximately 400 lbs. occasionally. Comfort standing for long periods and remaining on feet for most of a 12-hour shift. Ability to work safely around hazardous and volatile chemicals while following safety procedures and using PPE. Ability to work both closely with team members and independently in designated areas as needed. Manual dexterity and ability to use repetitive wrist, hand, and finger motions for equipment operation and wafer handling. Basic technical aptitude and comfort using computers, reading computer screens, and entering data accurately. Familiarity with email and Microsoft Office applications, especially Excel, for data entry and process tracking. Ability to operate robotic and automated equipment and respond appropriately to tool alarms. Strong attention to detail and ability to perform visual inspections of polishing pads, heads, wafers, and small components. Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English with management and coworkers. Ability to create, read, comprehend, and explain instructions, procedures, technical manuals, reports, and correspondence in English. Basic math skills, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and calculation of percentages and decimals using calculators or Excel. High level of multitasking ability to monitor multiple tools and wafer movements simultaneously without sacrificing accuracy. Strong time management skills to meet daily production targets and handle a fast-paced workload. Commitment to following all documented procedures, quality standards, and safety requirements. High level of safety awareness and willingness to act as a safety role model in a manufacturing environment. Ability to achieve at least Level 1 Certification in the assigned work area, typically within 30 days of training. Additional Skills & Qualifications Prior production or manufacturing experience is beneficial but not required. Experience working in a cleanroom environment is a plus. Background in inspection, quality assurance, or process monitoring is advantageous. Strong organizational skills and ability to maintain accurate documentation and records. Demonstrated teamwork skills and ability to collaborate effectively in a production setting. Experience using hand tools such as Allen wrenches to perform equipment adjustments is helpful. Comfort working in a structured environment with detailed procedures and standardized work instructions. Ability to identify and communicate process improvement ideas to support continuous improvement efforts. Why Work Here? This opportunity offers long-term stability with a track record of continuous operation and no layoffs due to lack of work, even during challenging economic periods. Once hired directly, employees gain access to exceptional benefits, including very low-cost insurance plans that support overall well-being. While on contract, employees are eligible for paid time off and holiday pay, with 3 days of PTO at 6 months, an additional 2 days at 1 year, and an extra 5 days awarded every January 1st after completing a full year, plus an additional annual floating day. A $500 bonus is available for employees who remain on contract through approximately 18 months, based on hours worked. A generous referral program rewards employees with up to $1,000 for successful referrals who remain on assignment for at least six months. Team members also enjoy access to an on-site gym at no cost, supporting a healthy lifestyle and work-life balance. Work Environment The work takes place in an indoor, ventilated, and climate-controlled cleanroom environment designed to support high-precision manufacturing. Although the cleanroom is air conditioned and well ventilated, operators may feel warm or sweaty due to the required personal protective equipment. PPE includes a hooded full-body cleanroom suit (bunny suit) with hairnet and/or beard net, safety glasses or goggles, a mouth and nose cover, latex or latex-free gloves, and cleanroom boots. Operators work in close proximity to moving mechanical parts and hazardous or volatile chemicals, following strict safety protocols and cleanroom standards. The role follows a 12.5-hour day shift schedule from 5:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on a compressed workweek with alternating 3-on/4-off and 4-on/3-off patterns, including every other weekend and potential overtime. The environment emphasizes precision, cleanliness, and adherence to safety and quality procedures, with frequent standing, walking, and equipment interaction throughout the shift. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Vancouver, WA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $19.00 - $23.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Vancouver,WA.

Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Jun 30, 2026. About Aerotek Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK. Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.