Sr Process & Automation Engineer

About the role

Forming Our Future together

FormFactor, Inc. (NASDAQ: FORM), is a leading provider of essential test and measurement technologies along the full semiconductor product life cycle - from characterization, modeling, reliability, and design de-bug, to qualification and production test. Semiconductor companies rely upon FormFactor's products and services to accelerate profitability by optimizing device performance and advancing yield knowledge. The company serves customers through its network of facilities in Asia, Europe, and North America.

Rooted in our core values - Focus on the Customer, Ownership & Accountability, Respectfully & Effectively Communicate, and Motivate & Develop People - we foster an environment where diverse perspectives are not only welcomed but celebrated. Everyone can make an impact here. Whether it's improving products, supporting customers, or positively influencing peers and the community, the contributions of our people matter.

Shift: The regular hours for this position are day shift.

About the role

The Sr Process & Automation Engineer supports the development, implementation, qualification, and continuous improvement of automated manufacturing processes and equipment. This role applies engineering principles, programming, data analysis, and hands-on technical skills to develop automation solutions that improve manufacturing capability, consistency, efficiency, and reliability.

The Sr engineer works closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, technicians, equipment vendors, and other cross-functional partners to execute automation projects, qualify new processes and equipment, troubleshoot manufacturing issues, and support design for manufacturability. This position is well suited for an engineer who enjoys combining software, equipment, robotics, and hands-on problem solving in a manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

Automation & Equipment Engineering

• Execute automation projects from defined requirements through implementation, including design, analysis, testing, and project scope development.
• Develop scripts and software programs to automate manufacturing processes and integrate equipment, hardware, and related systems.
• Build, configure, test, and deploy robotic solutions for identified manufacturing processes to achieve defined performance requirements.
• Support development of standardized automation equipment and user requirement specifications.
• Contribute to equipment and component standardization, manufacturing data standards, and standardized safety risk assessments.
• Apply engineering principles and hands-on troubleshooting techniques to identify and resolve automation and equipment issues.
• Stay current with emerging automation technologies and relevant industry and academic developments to identify potential applications within manufacturing.

Process Development & Qualification

• Support the development, implementation, and improvement of manufacturing processes and automation technologies.
• Manage assigned qualification activities for new manufacturing processes, measurement systems, and testing equipment.
• Develop and execute testing and validation activities to evaluate process and equipment performance.
• Analyze test and process data, document findings, and communicate results and recommendations to appropriate stakeholders.
• Apply statistical analysis techniques to evaluate manufacturing data, equipment performance, and process results.
• Partner with Design Engineering to incorporate design-for-manufacturability considerations into products and processes.

Manufacturing & Technical Support

• Provide day-to-day sustaining engineering support and assist technicians with escalated equipment, automation, and process issues.
• Troubleshoot manufacturing equipment and process problems using structured, data-driven problem-solving methods.
• Perform hands-on assembly and disassembly of delicate, precision mechanical components as required to support troubleshooting, equipment development, and process improvement.
• Work with equipment vendors and end users to support equipment implementation, troubleshooting, and training.
• Identify opportunities to improve equipment reliability, process consistency, manufacturing efficiency, and overall operational performance.

Documentation, Training & Continuous Improvement

• Create and maintain technical documentation, equipment requirements, test results, process instructions, and engineering reports.
• Develop training materials and provide training on automation equipment, processes, and technologies.
• Support standardization of automation practices, equipment requirements, and manufacturing processes.
• Participate in continuous improvement activities and contribute engineering recommendations based on data, testing, and manufacturing observations.
• Share technical knowledge and lessons learned with technicians, engineers, and other manufacturing partners.

Preferred Qualifications & Experience

• Working knowledge of manufacturing equipment, automation systems, robotics, and engineering principles.
• Programming or scripting skills with the ability to develop solutions that integrate software and hardware.
• Ability to collect, analyze, and interpret process and equipment data.
• Working knowledge of statistical analysis methods and analytical reporting.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to safely assemble, disassemble, and work with precision components.
• Ability to troubleshoot equipment and process issues using logical, structured, and data-driven approaches.
• Ability to interpret technical specifications, equipment requirements, drawings, and related engineering documentation.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage assigned engineering activities and changing priorities while meeting project objectives.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to document technical findings clearly.

Skills

Automated Machine Learning (AutoML), Automation Development, Automation Scripting, Automation Software, Automation Technology, Deployment Automation, Engineering Process, Factory Automation, Process Automation, Process Flow Diagram (PFD), Process Measurement, Process Methodologies, Process Monitor, Process Simplification

Education & Experience

Bachelor's degree and a minimum of 2 years of related experience; or an advanced degree without experience; or equivalent work experience | Required

Pay Range

$90,500.00 - $118,755.00

Pay Range Explained

This role in Livermore, California pays between $90,500.00 and $118,755.00 per year, depending on your experience, skills, and background. Pay may vary in other locations. We offer a full benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, a 401(k) with company match, employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), and paid time off. You'll also be eligible for quarterly profit-sharing bonuses and flexible spending or savings accounts.