Strategies to Reskill Those With Semiconductor Jobs

The semiconductor industry is grappling with a talent shortage and a skills gap. Advancing technology is a significant driving force to this absence of knowledge, resulting in an urgent need to refresh the skills of those with semiconductor jobs. A range of roles have been affected, but there are a number of approaches that could bring about solutions. 

Our guide examines the causes of the skills gap and explores possible solutions to address the issue. 

The Semiconductor Industry and its Talent Shortage 

As this is a complex industry, the number of semiconductor jobs is broad, as are the required skills in this specialized field. Niche in their nature, there’s a demand for certain skills that aren’t being met. Before discussing that, here’s an overview of some key roles needed for creating semiconductor devices. 

Semiconductor Design and Development 

Semiconductor Design Engineer 

A Semiconductor Design Engineer designs and develops components and systems critical for semiconductor production. This could include microprocessors and integrated circuits. Their responsibilities include: 

• Using CAD and simulation software to design semiconductor devices, systems, and software. 
  
  
• Optimizing and implementing semiconductor design approaches while adhering to best practices.  

Verification Engineer

Verification Engineers are essential in the semiconductor industry. They ensure that intricate hardware systems and integrated circuits perform as per their specifications and requirements. To achieve this, they will: 

• Develop extensive test plans to validate design functionality. 
  
  
• Detect potential issues, rectify them, and analyze test data to identify flaws in expected performance.

System Architect 

A System Architect is responsible for developing system-on-chip (SoC) projects. This position necessitates a fusion of skills: 

• Architecture Design: System Architects define the architecture of SoCs, including functionality and power considerations. 
  
  
• Requirements Analysis: They identify and record exhaustive metrics for a project. This means translating business and product requirements into specifications that aid development. 

Semiconductor Manufacturing 

Process Engineer

Process Engineers are pivotal for the semiconductor manufacturing process. They work diligently to refine operations. Primarily, their responsibilities are:

• Process Development: Implementing new processes that elevate semiconductor device performance. 
  
  
• Improving Yield: Increasing yield by analyzing data and optimizing the semiconductor manufacturing process. 

Equipment Engineer 

Advanced machinery is needed for semiconductor manufacturing, and Equipment Engineers must properly maintain it. Here are their typical duties: 

• Equipment Maintenance: Ensure equipment functions correctly for optimal performance and minimal downtime. 
  
  
• Installation and Upgrades: Installing the latest equipment and upgrading existing machinery. 

Packaging Engineer

Packaging Engineers are key to designing the physical enclosure and interconnects for semiconductor chips. They must be skilled in:

• Material Selection: Choosing appropriate materials is key. They must be durable enough to withstand stressful conditions. 
  
  
• Layout and Performance: They will design the package layout and ensure performance and reliability. 

Quality and Testing 

Test Engineer

This role is paramount for ensuring that only high-performing and reliable semiconductor chips reach the market. A Test Engineer will do the following: 

• Design and Development: Create and improve test plans and procedures for high-quality semiconductor devices.  
  
  
• Testing and Validation: Test Engineers validate that integrated circuits satisfy requirements using test equipment such as oscilloscopes, signal generators, and spectrum analyzers. 

The Talent Shortage 

Despite the breadth of semiconductor jobs, there’s a distinct dearth of talent to fill roles. This poses several problems to the industry’s capability to grow and meet the rising demand for semiconductor devices. Here’s the scale of the issue:

• Globally, the semiconductor industry is forecast to need over one million extra skilled workers by 2030. Semiconductor recruitment would need more than 100,000 new hires annually to fulfill this demand. 
  
  
• U.S. semiconductor companies could face severe ramifications if not addressed, with up to 70,000 unfulfilled semiconductor jobs by 2030. 
  
  

Emerging Technologies

While technological developments bring positives, their rapid evolution generates demand for specific skills that are in short supply, resulting in many unfulfilled semiconductor jobs. Here’s an overview of key areas creating a skills gap: 

• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI and ML): AI and ML are becoming increasingly integrated into semiconductor manufacturing processes. Generative AI’s prevalence is compounding the skills shortage. According to 72% of industry leaders surveyed by Deloitte, its impact will be "high to transformative.” However, there’s a shortage of professionals adept in these disciplines.
  
  
• Advanced Materials: Semiconductor devices are becoming miniaturized but more powerful, which requires knowledge of new materials like silicon carbide, gallium nitride, and indium-based compounds. Semiconductor manufacturing processes are constantly evolving. Implementing Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) lithography and 3D chip stacking requires material properties and behavior proficiency. 
  
  
• Quantum Computing: Semiconductors are central to the advancement of quantum computing. They are the foundation for developing and controlling qubits. This means the semiconductor industry needs professionals with knowledge of quantum information science, including quantum mechanics, quantum algorithms, and quantum error correction. Professionals skilled in these areas are rare. As per McKinsey’s research, only one qualified quantum candidate is available for every three quantum job openings.
  
  
• Edge Computing: Edge computing integrates AI, IoT, and data analytics, rendering many traditional semiconductor skills redundant. Generally, edge devices use heterogeneous computing architectures, which combine CPUs, GPUs, FPGAs, and custom ASICs. Technologies like Fan-Out and System-in-Package (SiP) are deployed to integrate several dies in one package. 
  
  

Assessing Existing Skills 

Semiconductor companies wishing to overcome the scarcity of skills in the industry must first assess their existing skills. Doing so allows them to identify gaps in knowledge and offer relevant training. Here are examples of approaches organizations could apply: 

Talent Evaluation and Gap Analysis 

• Skills Assessments: Implement structured tools like competency matrices to understand employees’ abilities in contrast to what’s required for their position. 
  
  
• Technical and Soft Competencies: Assessment tools can evaluate employees’ technical proficiencies and soft skills required in the semiconductor industry. For example, a Verification Engineer will need critical thinking capabilities in addition to technical expertise. 
  
  
• Identify Gaps: Compare employees’ skills to the emerging demands. Do they have proficiency in AI and ML? Are they familiar with advanced packaging techniques? Will they be able to meet future project demands?

Leverage Data-Driven Tools 

• Skill Mapping Platforms: There are a plethora of platforms available to track and develop employee skills, such as Cornerstone OnDemand and Degreed. 
  
  
• Performance Analytics: Utilizing Statistical Process Control (SPC) allows companies to monitor KPIs and highlight areas for improvement.
  
  
• AI-Driven Insights: AI tools can forecast future skill requirements and offer suggestions for upskilling. 

Employee Feedback and Self-Appraisal  

• Self-Assessments: Allow employees to reflect on their skills and convey the areas they want to develop. Skill development is valued by workers, with 94% of employees stating they’d stay at a company if it invested in their growth. 
  
  
• Managerial Reviews: Senior figures will have first-hand experience with employees’ abilities and challenges. It’s important to use this information. 

Educational Pathways

An estimated 1,500 engineers take up semiconductor jobs annually, representing just 3% of 52% of engineering graduates who go into engineering roles. It’s clear that there’s a lack of fresh talent entering the industry, emphasizing the importance of reskilling. 

Education is a proven means of enhancing one's skills. Whether it’s online courses or university programs, semiconductor professionals can explore an array of avenues to reskill. 

Online Courses and Certifications 

There are many online learning platforms tailored to elevate skills concerning semiconductor technology, electronics, and other fields relevant to the industry. This route to reskilling offers flexibility, which is ideal for working professionals. Examples include:

• Coursera: Offers professional certificates and courses covering semiconductor devices, physics, digital circuits, and microelectronics from leading institutions such as Stanford, Georgia Tech, and the University of Colorado Boulder. 
  
  
• edX: Provides MicroMasters and certifications in Semiconductor Engineering from renowned universities like MIT, UC Berkeley, and Purdue. Popular courses include ‘Microelectronics’ at the University of Maryland. 
  
  
• Udacity: Nanodegree programs focus on hands-on learning in chip design, digital circuits, and hardware development. Importantly, popular courses cover areas of the semiconductor industry lacking knowledge, such as ‘Computer Architecture’ an ‘AI for Robotics.’
  
  
• imec: Recognizing the absence of talent with relevant skills, imec provides bespoke training programs for cleanroom operators, as well as a learning program called ‘imec school.’ 

Technical Schools and Community Colleges 

Practical experience is essential for semiconductor jobs. Therefore, institutions that offer hands-on training are invaluable for reskilling professionals within the industry. Here’s an overview of some examples: 

• Silicon Valley Technical Institute (SVTI): Professionals can receive specialized training through programs like semiconductor manufacturing, microelectronics fabrication, and semiconductor equipment operation. 
  
  
• Community Colleges offering Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology Programs: Foothill College offers a Semiconductor Technician Certificate that concentrates on manufacturing, fabrication, and testing technologies, and Texas State Technical College (TSTC) provides an extensive semiconductor program covering fabrication and cleanroom safety. 
  
  

University Programs 

Professionals can utilize university-level programs to focus on and improve on advanced elements of semiconductor engineering. Some options are outlined below: 

Master’s and PhD Programs in Semiconductor Engineering 

• Stanford University: Provides comprehensive courses in semiconductor device physics and microelectronics within the Department of Electrical Engineering. 
  
  
• University of California, Berkeley: Offers a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences, which has areas specifically for semiconductor devices and integrated circuits. 
  
  
• University of Michigan, Ann Arbor: Famed for its semiconductor research programs. Offers graduate degrees in Electrical and Computer Engineering. 

Bachelor’s Degrees in Electronics Engineering or Electrical Engineering

• MIT: Has an Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) program with courses that benefit semiconductor knowledge. 
  
  
• Georgia Tech: The Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) program concentrates on semiconductor technologies and integrated circuits. 
  
  
• University of California, San Diego (UCSD): Its Electrical Engineering programs include semiconductor device coursework. 

Industry-Specific Training 

Semiconductor professionals can benefit from various reskilling programs that will equip them with new skills to flourish in the industry. These opportunities hone in on advancements like AI, quantum computing, and chip manufacturing, seeking to address gaps in advanced lithography, material science, and software integration. 

On-the-Job Training Programs 

Companies like Intel, TSMC, and Samsung provide in-depth reskilling programs to combat the changing demands of the semiconductor industry. These programs emphasize development in advanced process nodes, defect reduction, and materials innovation. 

• Intel: Offers a 10-day accelerated Quick Start Semiconductor Technician Training program that’s designed to give participants the essential skills needed for the semiconductor industry. 
  
  
• TSMC: Introduced a training center at Fab 15a equipped with 20 main machines and 12 measurement and ancillary machines. Over 10,000 individuals have received training through this program. 
  
  
• Samsung: Samsung has a range of internal training and talent development programs to supplement its semiconductor efforts. Its Samsung Institute of Technology (SSIT) is a higher education institution that provides technical training in semiconductors and degrees in semiconductor engineering.
  
  

Final Say: Strategies to Reskill Those With Semiconductor Jobs

Technological advancements are causing a growing demand for professionals adept at using the latest skills. Reskilling initiatives have become integral to tackling the issue of the skills gap that’s hampering semiconductor jobs. By implementing skill assessments, educational pathways, and on-the-job training, companies can equip professionals with the skills needed for a changing industry. 

Investing in reskilling counters the immediate issues, but importantly, it presents an opportunity to be future-proof and secure sustainable success. With efforts from industry leaders, academic institutions, and semiconductor professionals, the industry can not only survive but also thrive. 

Semiconductor Recruitment Solutions With Purpose 

Be sure your business isn’t susceptible to the skills gap and talent shortage blighting the semiconductor industry. At Acceler8 Talent, we are relentless in our pursuit of discovering the finest tech talent. We fuse genuine passion with our extensive network to headhunt professionals who embrace the speed of technology. 

Want to discover how we can find you talent to future-proof your business? Visit our dedicated semiconductor page or contact us today.