Engineer R&D - Prototyping Engineering

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Engineer R&D - Prototyping Engineering

Company: AT&S

Location: Leoben, Styria, Austria

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering / Manufacturing / Science & Research / Technology

Date Posted: July 24, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead R&D process development for advanced substrate and packaging technologies, focusing on prototyping and implementation of innovative manufacturing concepts.

• Drive the qualification and optimization of plating and wet chemistry processes critical for cutting-edge substrate and packaging applications.

• Collaborate with global R&D teams, manufacturing sites, and external partners to accelerate technology development and transfer to production.

• Utilize advanced analytical tools such as Design of Experiments (DOE) and Statistical Process Control (SPC) to achieve process performance goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is firmly situated within advanced manufacturing R&D, specifically focusing on the physical processes and materials required for high-end IC substrates and printed circuit boards. The emphasis is on translating novel concepts into tangible prototypes and then qualifying them for mass production, demanding a strong blend of theoretical knowledge and practical, hands-on engineering.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the development and qualification of advanced plating and wet chemistry processes tailored for substrate and packaging applications, ensuring high-quality output.

• Drive innovation in technology development, focusing on critical areas such as fine line structuring, small via formation, die integration, and novel manufacturing techniques.

• Evaluate, specify, install, and qualify new process equipment and technologies to enhance manufacturing capabilities and efficiency.

• Optimize process performance through rigorous application of Design of Experiments (DOE), comprehensive data analysis, and detailed process parameter development.

• Foster seamless collaboration with global R&D teams, manufacturing sites, suppliers, and external partners to achieve successful realization of new process concepts.

• Lead supplier evaluation processes, drive process standardization across different sites, and champion continuous improvement initiatives to elevate operational excellence.

• Build and expand manufacturing know-how within the organization, establishing AT&S as a leader in substrate and advanced packaging technologies.

• Provide essential support for technology transfer to TDI (Technology Development & Innovation) and NPI (New Product Introduction) teams, rigorously adhering to quality, budget, and timeline objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on R&D engineering role with a strong project management component. The successful candidate will not only develop processes but also be instrumental in selecting, implementing, and validating the necessary equipment. The emphasis on collaboration and technology transfer indicates a need for strong communication and cross-functional leadership skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Chemistry, or a closely related technical field. Equivalent professional experience may be considered.

Experience: Proven experience as an Engineer or Process Engineer within a specialized process area, preferably in the substrate, IC packaging, assembly, or related high-tech manufacturing industries. Demonstrable experience in process development, process qualification, and equipment qualification is essential.

Required Skills:

• Strong experience in process development and qualification methodologies.

• Proficient in statistical data analysis and Design of Experiments (DOE).

• Familiarity with quality and process engineering tools such as Statistical Process Control (SPC), Measurement System Analysis (MSA), Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), and Control Plans.

• Excellent analytical mindset, with a structured working approach and keen attention to detail.

• Fluent in written and spoken English. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with plating and wet chemistry processes in semiconductor or advanced packaging environments.

• Knowledge of fine line structuring, small via formation, and die integration techniques.

• German language skills are considered an advantage.

• Experience working in a cleanroom environment.

• Willingness to travel internationally and collaborate within intercultural teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a solid foundation in engineering principles combined with practical experience in advanced manufacturing processes. The mention of specific quality tools (SPC, MSA, FMEA) and statistical methods (DOE) indicates a data-driven approach to problem-solving and process optimization, which is crucial for this R&D role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase case studies demonstrating successful process development and qualification cycles, detailing challenges, methodologies, and outcomes for plating and wet chemistry processes.

• Present examples of process optimization projects, highlighting the application of DOE and data analysis to improve yield, reduce defects, or enhance performance metrics.

• Include documentation or descriptions of equipment evaluation, specification, and qualification processes, illustrating the candidate's ability to select and validate manufacturing tools.

• Provide evidence of contributions to technology transfer initiatives, demonstrating the ability to document processes and support NPI teams effectively. Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate experience in creating clear and comprehensive process documentation, including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and process flow diagrams relevant to advanced manufacturing.

• Showcase ability to document process parameter windows, critical process parameters (CPPs), and key performance indicators (KPIs) for process monitoring and control.

• Include examples of process validation reports and qualification documentation, illustrating an understanding of regulatory and quality requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an R&D Prototyping Engineering role, a portfolio should clearly illustrate the candidate's ability to translate theoretical concepts into practical, scalable processes. Emphasis should be placed on quantifiable results, structured problem-solving, and the ability to document and communicate technical information effectively.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the Austrian Collective Agreement for the Electrical and Electronics Industry, employment group E-F, and considering the mid-level experience required (2-5 years) for an Engineer R&D - Prototyping Engineering in Leoben, Austria, the estimated annual gross salary range is approximately €55,000 to €75,000. This range is subject to adjustment based on the candidate's specific qualifications, experience, and performance.

Benefits:

• A structured and tailor-made onboarding program designed to integrate new employees effectively into the company and role.

• Opportunities for continual training and professional development to foster skill advancement.

• Access to a modern company canteen offering freshly prepared meals daily, promoting employee well-being.

• Convenient on-site amenities including free parking spaces and e-charging stations.

• A comprehensive package of diverse health measures and a wide range of additional employee benefits.

Working Hours: Standard full-time working hours are expected to be around 40 hours per week, with potential for flexibility based on project needs and company policy, typical for an on-site R&D engineering role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimation is based on the provided reference to the Austrian Collective Agreement for the Electrical and Electronics Industry (employment group E-F) and general market data for similar R&D engineering roles in Austria. The specific benefits listed are directly extracted from the job description, highlighting AT&S's commitment to employee well-being and professional growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: AT&S operates in the highly specialized and competitive semiconductor manufacturing industry, specifically as a leading global producer of high-end IC substrates and printed circuit boards. This sector is characterized by rapid technological advancement, stringent quality demands, and significant investment in research and development. The company's focus on advanced technologies for AI applications, automotive, industrial, and medical segments underscores its commitment to innovation and future-proofing its offerings.

Company Size: AT&S is a significant player in its industry, with plants across Austria, China, India, and Malaysia, and global sales offices. This implies a large, complex organization with established processes and a global operational footprint, offering opportunities for international exposure and collaboration.

Founded: Founded in 1897, AT&S has a long and rich history, evolving from its origins to become a leader in advanced electronics manufacturing. This longevity suggests a stable, established company with deep expertise and a proven track record in adapting to technological shifts.

Team Structure:

• The R&D team in Leoben likely comprises specialized engineers and scientists focused on various aspects of substrate and packaging technology development. This team is crucial for driving the company's technological edge.

• The role involves collaboration with global R&D teams, indicating a matrixed reporting structure or project-based team formations across different geographical locations.

• Close interaction with manufacturing sites (TDI/NPI) is expected, requiring effective communication and partnership to ensure smooth technology transfer and production readiness. Methodology:

• Data-driven process development and optimization using statistical analysis and DOE are core methodologies.

• A structured approach to technology development, from concept to qualification and transfer, is fundamental.

• Emphasis on collaboration with internal teams and external partners (suppliers, research institutions) to leverage collective expertise and accelerate innovation.

• Continuous improvement initiatives are likely embedded in the team's operational philosophy.

Company Website: https://www.ats.net/

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding AT&S's position as a high-tech manufacturer is key. The R&D Prototyping Engineering role is integral to maintaining and advancing their leadership in IC substrates and PCBs. The company's global presence and long history suggest a mature organization that values innovation, quality, and long-term growth.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is classified as a Mid-Level Engineer, typically requiring 2-5 years of relevant experience. It represents a crucial stage for engineers looking to deepen their technical expertise in a specialized area and take on more project leadership. The role offers the opportunity to become a subject matter expert in advanced plating and wet chemistry processes for substrate and packaging technologies.

Reporting Structure: The role reports into the R&D team in Leoben, Austria. It involves close collaboration with global R&D teams, manufacturing sites, and external suppliers, indicating a cross-functional and matrixed reporting environment. The direct reporting line is likely to an R&D Manager or Team Lead responsible for process development.

Operations Impact: The Engineer R&D - Prototyping Engineering plays a direct and critical role in AT&S's innovation pipeline. By developing and qualifying advanced processes, this role directly impacts the company's ability to produce next-generation IC substrates and PCBs, which are essential for high-performance computing, AI, automotive, and medical applications. Successful process implementation leads to improved product performance, reduced manufacturing costs, and enhanced market competitiveness.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced plating, wet chemistry, fine line structuring, and IC packaging technologies, potentially leading to senior R&D Engineer or Principal Engineer roles.

• Project Leadership: Progress to leading larger, more complex R&D projects, managing cross-functional teams and external collaborations.

• Process Transfer & Manufacturing Liaison: Transition into roles focused on technology transfer, process integration into mass production, or NPI management, bridging R&D and manufacturing.

• Management Track: With demonstrated leadership and project success, potential to move into R&D management positions, overseeing teams and strategic initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a strong launchpad for a specialized career in semiconductor or advanced packaging process engineering. The growth opportunities are clearly tied to deepening technical expertise and taking on greater project responsibility within AT&S's R&D and manufacturing ecosystem.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at AT&S's facilities in Leoben, Austria, which encompasses R&D laboratories and potentially pilot production or prototyping areas. This is an on-site position, requiring regular presence at the company's location.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is Leoben, Styria, Austria. This region is known for its industrial and technological significance in Austria.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment will involve close collaboration within the R&D team, including engineers, scientists, and technicians.

• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory equipment for process development, characterization, and testing is expected.

• The role necessitates working in a cleanroom environment, requiring adherence to specific protocols and safety measures.

• Opportunities for interaction with manufacturing engineers and personnel from TDI/NPI teams will be frequent, fostering a dynamic and collaborative setting.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is likely full-time, approximately 40 hours per week. While R&D projects can sometimes require flexibility to meet deadlines or address urgent issues, the core schedule is set, allowing for structured work on process development and data analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mention of a cleanroom environment and the need for international travel indicates a hands-on role in a high-tech manufacturing setting. The collaborative workspace is essential for innovation and problem-solving in the complex field of IC substrate and PCB development.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess alignment with the required qualifications and experience.

• Technical Interview(s): Expect in-depth discussions focused on your experience with process development, qualification, DOE, SPC, and specific technologies like plating and wet chemistry. Be prepared to elaborate on past projects and problem-solving approaches.

• Portfolio Review: Candidates may be asked to present specific examples from their portfolio, showcasing their work on process improvement, technology development, or equipment qualification. This is a critical step to demonstrate practical application of skills.

• Team/Manager Interview: An opportunity to discuss your fit with the R&D team culture, working style, and career aspirations. You may also discuss specific project challenges and your approach to collaboration.

• On-site Visit (potentially): Depending on the stage, an on-site visit to the Leoben facility might be included to meet the team and see the facilities.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project presented, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the methodology used (e.g., DOE steps, statistical analysis performed), and the quantifiable results (e.g., yield improvement, defect reduction, cost savings, performance enhancement).

• Showcase Process Expertise: Highlight your experience with specific processes relevant to AT&S, such as plating, wet chemistry, fine line structuring, or die integration.

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Include examples of how you've tackled complex technical challenges, the analytical tools you employed, and the solutions you implemented.

• Highlight Collaboration: If possible, showcase projects where you successfully collaborated with cross-functional teams, suppliers, or international partners.

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio (or selected case studies) logically, perhaps chronologically or by technological area, with clear titles, concise descriptions, and impactful visuals (diagrams, charts).

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for potential technical challenges or case studies related to process optimization, troubleshooting a hypothetical manufacturing issue, or designing an experiment to test a new process parameter.

• Practice explaining complex technical concepts clearly and concisely, as if presenting to a mixed audience of engineers and managers.

• Prepare to discuss how you would approach technology transfer from R&D to manufacturing, considering potential hurdles and mitigation strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for an R&D role like this will heavily scrutinize technical depth and practical problem-solving skills. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly demonstrates experience with process development, statistical analysis, and cleanroom manufacturing is essential for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Process Equipment: Hands-on experience with various process equipment used in semiconductor or advanced packaging manufacturing, including but not limited to plating baths, wet etching/cleaning stations, sputtering systems, lithography equipment, and metrology tools.

• Prototyping/Pilot Line Equipment: Familiarity with machinery used for small-scale runs and testing of new processes.

• Cleanroom Equipment: Understanding and experience operating within a controlled cleanroom environment.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Statistical Software: Proficiency in statistical analysis software packages such as JMP, Minitab, or similar for Design of Experiments (DOE), data analysis, and statistical process control (SPC).

• Data Visualization Tools: Experience with tools like Tableau or Power BI for creating dashboards and reports to visualize process performance, trends, and experimental results.

• Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS): Familiarity with systems for tracking samples, experiments, and analytical data in a lab setting.

CRM & Automation:

• PLM Systems (Product Lifecycle Management): Potential exposure to systems for managing product data and processes throughout their lifecycle.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for storing, organizing, and retrieving technical documents, SOPs, and reports.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Jira, Asana, or Microsoft Project for managing R&D projects, timelines, and tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software isn't always listed, the role implies a strong need for proficiency in statistical analysis tools (JMP, Minitab) and an understanding of how to operate and manage process equipment in a cleanroom. Familiarity with data visualization and project management tools will also be advantageous.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Future Orientation: A strong drive to explore and implement cutting-edge technologies that will shape the future of interconnected devices.

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to high standards in process development, execution, and product quality, essential in the high-tech manufacturing sector.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: An emphasis on working effectively across global teams, departments, and with external partners to achieve shared goals.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Reliance on rigorous data analysis, statistical methods, and experimental results to guide process development and optimization.

• Efficiency & Continuous Improvement: A focus on optimizing processes, improving performance, and driving efficiency throughout the R&D and manufacturing lifecycle.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Close working relationships with R&D colleagues, manufacturing engineers, NPI teams, and external suppliers are paramount.

• Open Communication: A culture that encourages open dialogue, sharing of ideas, and constructive feedback to foster innovation and resolve challenges.

• Knowledge Sharing: Active participation in sharing technical expertise, best practices, and lessons learned, particularly regarding new process development and technology transfer.

• Problem-Solving Orientation: A collective approach to tackling complex technical issues, leveraging diverse perspectives to find effective solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: AT&S's values likely emphasize innovation, quality, and global collaboration, crucial for a company operating at the forefront of advanced manufacturing. The culture will foster a highly technical and collaborative environment where data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement are central.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Lab Concepts to Production: Successfully scaling up novel processes from lab-scale prototypes to high-volume manufacturing while maintaining performance and cost-effectiveness.

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping pace with the fast-changing demands of the semiconductor and electronics industry, requiring continuous learning and adaptation.

• Complex Process Interdependencies: Managing and optimizing intricate wet chemistry and plating processes where subtle parameter changes can have significant downstream effects.

• Global Collaboration: Effectively working with diverse teams across different time zones and cultures to ensure alignment and progress on international projects.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Opportunities to attend specialized courses, workshops, and conferences focused on cutting-edge materials science, IC packaging, and process engineering techniques.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gaining experience by working closely with manufacturing, quality assurance, and product development teams.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential access to experienced engineers and scientists who can provide guidance on technical challenges and career development.

• Exposure to New Technologies: Being at the forefront of developing and implementing next-generation technologies for AI, automotive, and medical applications.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges related to the cutting edge of manufacturing technology. However, these challenges are also sources of immense growth opportunities, allowing professionals to develop deep expertise in a highly sought-after field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex process development project you led from concept to qualification. What were the key challenges, what methodologies did you employ (e.g., DOE steps), and what were the quantifiable outcomes?" (Focus on structured problem-solving, data application, and results.)

• "How would you approach qualifying a new plating bath chemistry for fine line applications? What factors would you consider, and what experiments would you design?" (Assess understanding of qualification processes and experimental design.)

• "Imagine a critical process parameter in our wet chemistry line is drifting, impacting yield. How would you identify the root cause and implement corrective actions?" (Evaluate troubleshooting skills and knowledge of process control.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you specifically about AT&S and our work in high-end IC substrates and advanced packaging?" (Show research into the company's technology and market position.)

• "How do you approach working in a cleanroom environment, and what safety protocols do you prioritize?" (Demonstrate understanding of specialized work environments.)

• "Describe a time you had to collaborate with an international team or a supplier to achieve a technical goal. What were the challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Assess collaboration and cross-cultural communication skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Key Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your experience in process development, qualification, DOE, and relevant technologies (plating, wet chemistry).

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly state the problem, your solution, the methodology, and the measurable results (e.g., X% yield improvement, Y% reduction in defects, Z% cost savings).

• Visual Aids: Use clear diagrams, charts, and images to illustrate process flows, experimental setups, or results. Keep slides clean and focused.

• Tell a Story: Frame your presentations as narratives, explaining the context, the challenge, your approach, and the successful outcome.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your methodology, decision-making process, and technical choices.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong grasp of core engineering principles, practical application of statistical methods, and experience within advanced manufacturing environments. Highlighting specific examples from past work with quantifiable results will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Engineer R&D - Prototyping Engineering position:

• Submit your application directly through the AT&S career portal via the provided URL.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords and responsibilities mentioned in the job description, such as "process development," "qualification," "DOE," "SPC," "plating," "wet chemistry," and "IC packaging." Quantify your achievements wherever possible.

• Portfolio Preparation: Compile a portfolio that showcases relevant projects. Focus on case studies demonstrating process development, optimization, qualification, and problem-solving in a manufacturing or R&D context. Be ready to discuss your role, methodology, and outcomes in detail.

• Interview Practice: Prepare to answer technical questions related to process engineering, statistical analysis, and specific technologies. Practice articulating your experience clearly and concisely, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with AT&S's products, technologies, global presence, and recent news. Understand their position in the IC substrate and PCB market and their focus on advanced applications like AI, automotive, and medical.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.