Senior/Principal Sub Fab Engineer in Plymouth

Plessey are seeking a Senior Sub Fab Engineer with clear progression potential into a Principal-level role within the Equipment Engineering Department. This is a key technical position within a rapidly expanding facility, offering the opportunity to develop into a broader technical leadership role over time.

We are not seeking previous semiconductor or sub‑fab experience specifically. Instead, we are looking for strong electro‑mechanical engineers from high‑tech manufacturing or similar complex engineering environments who are confident working with sophisticated equipment and enjoy solving challenging technical problems.

The role sits within an environment where Engineering and Manufacturing teams work closely together to support continued site growth and development. The working hours for this role are Monday - Friday, 8am - 4:30pm.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all activities within the sub-fab area to provide a continuous and safe supply of gases and chemicals to wafer fab equipment.
• Lead and support cross‑functional engineering projects aimed at improving tool performance, reliability, and automation.
• Design and implement custom hardware and sensor integrations to enhance tool functionality and monitoring.
• Oversee and maintain gas cabinets (housing gas bottles for production tools), vacuum pumps, by‑product abatement systems, and chemical (acid and solvent) bulk dispense systems.
• Own assigned tools and equipment, ensuring tasks are completed safely and efficiently. Perform routine chemical and gas system checks, maintain and troubleshoot equipment, replace supplies, and carry out scheduled maintenance.
• Maintain and update relevant databases (e.g., pumps, PPE inventory) and coordinate repairs or refurbishments as required.
• Lead deployment and adoption of FDC systems across new and existing fab tools, including installation, configuration, tool connectivity, and serving as the sub‑fab FDC point of contact while supporting engineering teams.
• Offer out‑of‑hours support when required to maintain uptime and resolve critical issues.
• Apply advanced fault‑finding and troubleshooting across electro‑mechanical, electrical, and electronic subsystems.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on tool upgrades, retrofits, and performance optimisation initiatives.
• Contribute to projects involving data acquisition, networking, and system interfacing to improve fab‑wide diagnostics and automation.
• Occasionally perform forklift operations and ensure all tasks are carried out safely and in compliance with PPE and safety protocols.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Minimum HNC in Electrical or Electronic Engineering (preferred), or Mechanical Engineering with strong electronics experience.
• Solid foundation in mechanical engineering principles, with the ability to understand and work with complex electromechanical systems.
• 10+ years’ experience in a high‑tech maintenance environment, demonstrating senior‑level technical knowledge and leadership.
• Proven troubleshooting and analytical skills, particularly in electronics, system diagnostics, and fault detection.
• Experience with data‑driven diagnostics, SPC charting, and implementing continuous improvement initiatives.
• High level of computer literacy, including Microsoft Office tools, for reporting, analysis, and project management.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and drive operational and process improvements.
• Strong team‑working, mentoring, and coaching skills.
• Demonstrated critical thinking, problem anticipation, and the ability to take charge when issues arise.
• Experience contributing to audits, project management, and high‑level meetings, providing informed technical input and guidance.

Benefits

• Pension scheme.
• Private medical & dental insurance.
• 28 days’ holiday + bank holidays.
• Free onsite meals.
• Onsite gym.
• Relocation support.
• Visa support available.