Field Service Engineer

Job Description

The Field Service Engineer supports advanced vacuum wafer-handling robotic systems used in semiconductor process equipment through expert troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and customer-facing technical service. This role combines hands-on work with complex electromechanical and automation systems, detailed failure investigations, and direct collaboration with OEMs and end users. You will play a key role in resolving critical equipment issues, improving reliability, and enabling high-volume manufacturing performance, with opportunities to grow into application engineering responsibilities.

• Lead end-to-end failure investigations of robotic systems, including mechanisms, motors, cables, connectors, encoders, electronics, and software.
• Perform forensic teardown, non-destructive and destructive analysis, and controlled replication of failure conditions to understand system behavior.
• Distinguish symptoms, mechanisms, and root causes even when working with incomplete or conflicting data.
• Apply structured problem-solving methodologies such as 5-Why, Ishikawa diagrams, fault-tree analysis, and hypothesis testing to identify root causes.
• Identify multi-factor root causes related to design, process, parts and suppliers, environment, and usage for robot handling errors, motion failures, communication faults, and vacuum system abnormalities.
• Validate root cause findings through data analysis, targeted experiments, and repeatability of results.
• Write and review detailed failure analysis and RMA reports, clearly documenting root causes, corrective actions, and preventive measures.
• Provide technical support for vacuum wafer-handling robots to OEMs and end users via phone, email, and in-person visits.
• Assist with installation, commissioning, and servicing of vacuum wafer-handling robots integrated into semiconductor process equipment.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on robotic systems, including robot motion system service, precision alignment, and contamination control.
• Support wafer-handling accuracy, end-effector alignment, and high-vacuum performance to meet demanding production requirements.
• Serve as a technical resource for OEMs and end users, offering guidance on complex issues and system performance.
• Manage customer escalations with structured communication, detailed action plans, and thorough resolution of technical problems.
• Compile service data into customer-ready reports and presentations using CRM and other reporting tools.
• Lead system upgrades, retrofits, installations, and multi-tool deployments for semiconductor capital equipment.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, manufacturing, and customer support teams to improve system reliability and service processes.
• Travel domestically and internationally to customer sites to perform field service, troubleshooting, and project work.

• 5+ years of field service experience supporting semiconductor equipment, robotics, automation, or high-precision electromechanical systems.
• Strong mechanical and electronics troubleshooting skills with the ability to diagnose complex issues in electromechanical systems.
• Experience analyzing logs and diagnostic data to identify faults in vacuum robot systems.
• Proven ability to write, review, and present detailed failure analysis and RMA reports.
• Experience communicating effectively with end users and OEM engineering teams and managing technical escalations.
• Proficiency with CRM software and customer-facing documentation tools for tracking service activities and preparing reports.
• Experience in troubleshooting and supporting capital equipment in semiconductor or similar high-tech environments.
• Hands-on experience with field service engineering, technical support, and travel-based customer service work.
• Ability to perform root cause analysis using structured methodologies and data-driven approaches.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required by customer and project needs.

• Hands-on experience working in semiconductor fabrication environments, including adherence to cleanroom protocols and contamination control.
• Knowledge of high-vacuum systems and wafer-handling robotics used in semiconductor process tools.
• Experience with robot software, motion control systems, and automation software for high-precision equipment.
• Familiarity with structured problem-solving methodologies such as 8D, 5-Why, and Ishikawa.
• Experience supporting high-volume manufacturing environments where uptime and yield are critical.
• Experience in electrical, mechanical, or electromechanical systems related to robotics and semiconductor capital equipment.
• Interest in career growth with potential to progress into an Application Engineer role.

This is a Permanent position based out of Bedford, MA.

The pay range for this position is $85000.00 - $120000.00/yr. Individual compensation offered for this position…