Equipment Engineering Technician in Bedford

We are seeking a skilled and proactive Equipment Engineer to support the repair, maintenance, and optimisation of semiconductor processing machinery. The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring high equipment uptime within a fast-paced, 24/7 manufacturing environment. Working closely with engineering and production teams, this role offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to continuous improvement initiatives while developing advanced technical expertise.

Duties

• Perform and coordinate the repair and maintenance of semiconductor processing equipment.
• Maintain greater than 80% uptime of key process tools.
• Fault-find and repair complex machine tool PCBs to component level.
• Support and guide technician-level personnel, Manufacturing Shift Leaders, and production staff.
• Monitor, evaluate, and improve equipment performance and reliability.
• Collaborate with Equipment Engineering Supervisors, Process Engineers, and Operators to resolve issues efficiently.
• Identify and implement cost reduction and continuous improvement projects.
• Ensure all work is carried out in line with safety policies and procedures.

Requirements

• Minimum HNC/HND (or equivalent) in Engineering, Science, Mathematics, Material Science, or a related field.
• Proven experience in equipment maintenance within semiconductor or similar environments.
• Strong knowledge of electronics with the ability to diagnose and repair PCBs at component level.
• Solid understanding of mechanical systems and maintenance practices.
• Experience with wafer fabrication processes or cleanroom environments (preferred).
• Familiarity with equipment such as Epitaxy, Ion Implant, or Passivation systems (advantageous).
• Knowledge of continuous improvement methodologies such as 6S or Kaizen (beneficial).
• Ability to work safely with chemical systems, including acids, following strict procedures.

Interpersonal Skills

• Ability to build credibility and strong working relationships quickly.
• Willingness to learn and continuously develop new skills.
• Strong team player with a collaborative mindset.
• Innovative thinker who challenges existing processes and suggests improvements.

Communication

• Oral: Excellent verbal communication skills with the ability to clearly explain technical issues, fault diagnoses, and work instructions to teams at all levels and external suppliers.
• Written: Strong written communication skills, capable of producing clear work instructions, reports, and technical documentation using graphs, charts, and data analysis.

Scheduling and Planning

• Ability to plan and manage both short-term and long-term tasks effectively.
• Support scheduling of maintenance activities and engineering projects.
• Capable of working within a structured shift pattern, including alternating early and late shifts.

Specific Knowledge and Experience

• Strong problem-solving and fault-finding capabilities.
• Experience diagnosing and repairing complex machinery and electronic systems.
• Ability to document processes, procedures, and technical findings clearly.
• Experience working with suppliers, subcontractors, and service engineers.
• Hands-on experience with mechanical setup and maintenance tasks.

Other Skills

• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Performs well under pressure in demanding environments.
• Flexible and adaptable to changing priorities and shift patterns.
• Good level of computer literacy.

Combined mechanical and electronic engineering experience required.

Please note that at times due to the volume of applications we may not be able to respond to each person individually. If you do not hear from us within 7 days we’re sorry you have not been successful this time. Please do not let this stop you applying for other positions you may be suitable for. Good Luck!

1st Choice Staff Recruitment is an equal opportunities employer and acts as both an Employment Agency & Business.