Junior Engineer R&D Prototyping Operations

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Junior Engineer R&D - Prototyping Operations

Company: AT&S Austria

Location: Leoben, Austria

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Research & Development Operations / Manufacturing Operations

Date Posted: 2026-07-24

Experience Level: Junior (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Support advanced R&D projects focused on IC substrate and printed circuit board manufacturing.

• Operate and maintain high-tech R&D equipment, including wet/chemical processing and lithography machinery.

• Execute testing, calibration, and sample batch production to meet technical and project requirements.

• Collaborate within cross-functional and international teams to drive innovation and best practices.

• Ensure strict adherence to safety protocols, IP protection, and AT&S Innovation Process guidelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: While titled "Junior Engineer," this role is heavily focused on operational execution within an R&D setting. It requires a strong understanding of manufacturing processes and equipment, rather than pure theoretical engineering. The "Operations" in the title signifies a hands-on, process-oriented approach to R&D prototyping.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Operate and manage advanced R&D equipment for IC Substrate manufacturing, specifically in areas like wet/chemical processing (e.g., Adhesion Promotion, Dry Film Stripping) and Lithography (e.g., Exposer machines).

• Execute R&D tasks strictly adhering to technical specifications, equipment operating procedures, and the AT&S Innovation Process, ensuring compliance with all company rules and regulations.

• Actively participate in and contribute to cross-functional and international project teams, promoting best practices and knowledge sharing to foster a collaborative innovation environment.

• Scout, screen, and monitor new equipment and technologies, documenting findings and providing essential technical know-how to colleagues to enhance the team's collective expertise.

• Handle high-tech equipment and sensitive electronic materials with utmost care, ensuring compliance with all relevant safety aspects, regulations, and cleanroom protocols.

• Perform meticulous calibration, analysis, and cleaning procedures on R&D equipment according to established plans and schedules to maintain optimal performance and data integrity.

• Support the execution of experimental trials, Design of Experiments (DOEs), and the manufacturing of sample batches and prototypes, including performing detailed measurement and inspection tasks.

• Uphold and protect the Intellectual Property (IP) of AT&S related to all R&D activities and innovations undertaken.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical operation of specialized equipment and adherence to structured R&D processes. The emphasis on "scouting" and "providing know-how" suggests a proactive learning and knowledge-sharing component beyond basic task execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: University degree in Chemistry or an equivalent professional background.

Experience: Experience in a relevant field (e.g., chemical processing, lithography, semiconductor manufacturing) is advantageous but not strictly required, indicating a strong training component for junior candidates.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

• Familiarity with Lotus Notes and SAP for operational tasks and data management.

• Fluent command of spoken and written English, essential for international team collaboration and technical documentation.

• Strong understanding of safety protocols, particularly within a cleanroom environment and when handling electronic materials.

• Ability to perform calibration, analysis, and cleaning of technical equipment.

• Experience or aptitude for executing trials and DOEs.

• Skills in measurement and inspection tasks for quality control. Preferred Skills:

• Hands-on experience with IC Substrate manufacturing equipment, specifically in wet/chemical processing or lithography.

• Knowledge of adhesion promotion or dry film stripping processes.

• Familiarity with exposure equipment in a lithography context.

• Understanding of IP protection principles within a corporate R&D setting.

• Experience working in cross-functional and international teams.

• Out-of-the-box thinking and problem-solving capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a Chemistry degree points towards a need for understanding chemical processes integral to IC substrate manufacturing. While specific operational experience is preferred, the emphasis on "open-minded," "communicative," and "willingness to learn" suggests that strong foundational knowledge and a proactive attitude are highly valued for this junior role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documentation of projects involving chemical processing or lithography equipment operation.

• Examples of calibration, analysis, or measurement tasks performed, showcasing attention to detail.

• Case studies detailing participation in trials, DOEs, or sample batch manufacturing.

• Evidence of adherence to safety protocols and cleanroom procedures in previous roles or academic projects.

• Documentation demonstrating proficiency with MS Office, with a focus on data analysis in Excel. Process Documentation:

• Ability to document operational procedures for equipment handling, calibration, and maintenance.

• Examples of how processes were followed to ensure quality and safety in a manufacturing or lab setting.

• Understanding of how to contribute to the refinement of existing R&D processes for prototyping.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a junior role, the portfolio is less about extensive project ownership and more about demonstrating foundational understanding and practical application of core R&D operations principles. Candidates should highlight any academic or personal projects that involved hands-on lab work, process adherence, or data recording.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the Austrian Collective Agreement for the Electrical and Electronics Industry, employment group E, and considering the junior level and specific qualifications, a competitive annual gross salary for this role in Leoben, Austria, would typically range from €35,000 to €45,000. This range is an estimate and will be finalized based on the candidate's specific qualifications, experience, and performance.

Benefits:

• A meaningful role with significant opportunities for long-term career growth within an international manufacturing and technology leader.

• The chance to actively contribute to AT&S's innovation pipeline and the creation of value in the interconnected world.

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

• Continuous training and development opportunities to enhance technical skills and career progression.

• Access to a modern company canteen offering freshly prepared meals daily.

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

• Diverse health measures and a comprehensive range of employee benefits contributing to well-being.

Working Hours: The standard working hours for this full-time position are 40 hours per week, aligning with the Austrian collective agreement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on the provided collective agreement information and typical junior engineer compensation in the Austrian electrical/electronics industry. The benefits package emphasizes professional development and work-life balance, common for R&D roles in established tech companies.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: AT&S operates in the highly specialized and demanding field of high-end IC substrates and printed circuit boards. This industry is critical for advanced electronics, powering sectors like mobile devices, automotive, aerospace, industrial applications, medical technology, and high-performance computing, particularly for AI. This context means a strong focus on precision, quality, innovation, and cutting-edge technology.

Company Size: AT&S is a leading global manufacturer, indicating a large, established organization with multiple international sites and a significant workforce. This size typically translates to structured processes, career development paths, and opportunities for cross-functional exposure.

Founded: Founded in 1897, AT&S has a long and rich history, evolving into a global leader in its field. This longevity suggests stability, deep industry expertise, and a culture that values experience and sustained innovation.

Team Structure:

• The R&D team in Leoben likely comprises specialized engineers, technicians, and researchers focused on developing next-generation IC substrates and PCBs.

• This role reports within the R&D department, with potential collaboration across manufacturing, process engineering, and quality assurance teams.

• Expect a hierarchical structure common in large industrial companies, with clear reporting lines but also opportunities for project-based collaboration across departments and international sites. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is paramount in high-tech manufacturing and R&D, so expect a strong emphasis on rigorous testing, analysis, and performance metrics.

• Workflow planning and optimization are continuous processes, especially in R&D prototyping, where efficiency and speed to market are key.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely integrated into equipment operation and process management to ensure scalability and cost-effectiveness.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Given AT&S's position as a global leader in a high-tech niche, the R&D operations culture is likely to be demanding, precise, and forward-thinking. The "shape the future of our interconnected world" slogan emphasizes a mission-driven environment focused on technological advancement.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a "Junior Engineer" role, signifying an entry-level position within the R&D operations and prototyping function. It's designed for individuals with foundational education (e.g., a degree in Chemistry) and potentially limited direct industry experience, offering a structured pathway to develop specialized skills in advanced manufacturing operations. The role is focused on hands-on execution and learning under guidance.

Reporting Structure: The Junior Engineer will likely report to an R&D Team Lead or a Senior Engineer responsible for prototyping operations. This reporting line ensures guidance, mentorship, and oversight on technical tasks and project contributions. Collaboration will extend to fellow engineers, technicians, and potentially project managers within the R&D department.

Operations Impact: While junior, this role directly impacts AT&S's innovation capabilities by ensuring the successful development and testing of new product prototypes. Efficient and accurate operations in the R&D prototyping phase are critical for validating new technologies, identifying design flaws early, and accelerating the time-to-market for next-generation IC substrates and PCBs. The quality of prototyping directly influences the viability and success of new product launches.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Develop deep expertise in specific R&D prototyping operations, such as advanced wet chemical processing, lithography techniques, or IC substrate manufacturing processes.

• Process Improvement: Grow into roles focused on optimizing R&D workflows, improving equipment efficiency, and contributing to the development of new operational procedures.

• Project Leadership: With experience, transition to leading smaller R&D prototyping projects or taking on more complex operational responsibilities within larger R&D initiatives.

• International Mobility: The willingness to travel and stay abroad opens doors for potential assignments at other AT&S global R&D or manufacturing sites, offering exposure to diverse operational environments and technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Junior Engineer" title combined with "Prototyping Operations" indicates a role focused on building practical experience in a highly technical manufacturing environment. The growth path emphasizes deepening technical operational skills and potentially moving into project coordination or specialized process engineering within R&D.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is primarily based in a laboratory and cleanroom environment within AT&S's R&D facilities in Leoben. While there may be office spaces for documentation, planning, and team meetings, the core work involves hands-on operation of specialized equipment.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is Leoben, Styria, Austria. This location offers access to AT&S's advanced R&D and manufacturing capabilities. The requirement to travel and stay abroad suggests potential temporary assignments at other AT&S facilities globally.

Workspace Context:

• Cleanroom Environment: A significant portion of the work will occur in a controlled cleanroom setting, requiring adherence to strict protocols for cleanliness, gowning, and material handling to prevent contamination.

• High-Tech Equipment: The workspace is equipped with advanced R&D machinery for IC substrate manufacturing, including wet/chemical processing and lithography equipment, demanding careful operation and maintenance.

• Collaborative Setting: While individual tasks are performed, the environment fosters collaboration with international R&D teams, requiring effective communication and teamwork.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week. Flexibility may be required to accommodate trial schedules or critical project deadlines, typical in R&D and manufacturing operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a cleanroom environment and specialized equipment suggests a workspace that requires precision, discipline, and adherence to strict operational protocols.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of applications and resumes to assess academic background (Chemistry degree), required skills (MS Office, SAP, English), and willingness to meet role requirements (cleanroom, travel).

• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on understanding of chemical processes, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and problem-solving approaches. Candidates may be asked about their experience with calibration, measurement, or experimental execution.

• Operations/R&D Team Interview: Assessment of fit with the R&D team, ability to work in cross-functional/international settings, and understanding of safety and IP protocols. Questions may delve into handling specialized equipment and working in a cleanroom.

• Hiring Manager Interview: Final discussion to evaluate overall suitability, career aspirations, and alignment with AT&S's culture and innovation goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Relevant Projects: Showcase any academic or personal projects involving laboratory work, chemical processes, equipment operation, data analysis (especially in Excel), or adherence to strict procedures.

• Detail Equipment Exposure: If you have experience with any scientific or manufacturing equipment, describe its function, your role in operating/maintaining it, and any safety protocols you followed.

• Demonstrate Process Understanding: Explain your approach to following protocols, performing calibrations, or conducting measurements, emphasizing accuracy and attention to detail.

• Showcase Collaboration: Provide examples of teamwork, especially in academic or project settings, highlighting communication and shared responsibilities.

• Explain Cleanroom Experience: If you have prior cleanroom experience, clearly articulate the protocols you followed and your understanding of its importance.

Challenge Preparation:

• Process Scenario: Be prepared for a scenario-based question asking how you would approach operating a specific piece of R&D equipment, ensuring safety and accuracy.

• Problem-Solving: Anticipate questions about troubleshooting common issues in a lab or manufacturing setting, focusing on a systematic approach.

• Data Interpretation: You might be asked to interpret basic data from a trial or measurement, demonstrating analytical thinking.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the junior level and operational focus, the interview process will likely assess foundational technical knowledge, practical aptitude, adherence to process, and cultural fit. The portfolio should emphasize hands-on experience and understanding of scientific/manufacturing environments.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• R&D Equipment: Advanced machinery for IC Substrate manufacturing, including:

  • Wet/Chemical Processing Equipment (e.g., for Adhesion Promotion, Dry Film Stripping)
  • Lithography Area Machines (e.g., Exposer)

• Calibration & Measurement Tools: Precision instruments for equipment calibration and product measurement.

Analytics & Reporting:

• MS Office Suite: Primarily Excel for data analysis, reporting, and creating trial documentation.

• Lotus Notes: For communication and potentially document management within AT&S's internal systems.

CRM & Automation:

• SAP: Used for operational tasks, potentially inventory management, or tracking materials and processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily weighted towards specialized manufacturing equipment and core business software (MS Office, SAP, Lotus Notes). Proficiency in Excel for data handling is crucial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Precision & Quality: A fundamental value in high-end manufacturing, ensuring every process step is executed with accuracy and attention to detail to meet stringent quality standards.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: As an R&D role, a drive to explore new technologies, test new ideas, and continuously seek ways to optimize processes is highly valued.

• Safety & Compliance: Strict adherence to safety regulations, especially in a cleanroom and chemical handling environment, is non-negotiable. Compliance with company processes and IP protection is also paramount.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: The role emphasizes working within cross-functional and international teams, requiring strong communication, mutual support, and knowledge sharing.

• Proactiveness & Learning: A willingness to take initiative, learn new skills, and adapt to evolving technologies and processes is essential for growth in this dynamic field.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expect close collaboration with other engineers, technicians, and potentially researchers across different disciplines within R&D, as well as with manufacturing and quality teams.

• Process Review Culture: A culture that encourages feedback on existing processes and the open discussion of findings from trials and experiments to drive improvements.

• Knowledge Sharing: An environment where team members are encouraged to share expertise, troubleshoot together, and collectively advance project goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: AT&S's global presence and focus on high-tech manufacturing suggest a culture that values technical excellence, a rigorous approach to operations, and a commitment to innovation and collaboration.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Cleanroom Protocols: Adapting to and consistently adhering to the strict gowning, handling, and environmental controls required in a cleanroom setting.

• Operating Complex Equipment: Learning to skillfully operate and maintain advanced, high-precision R&D machinery, requiring technical aptitude and careful execution.

• International Team Dynamics: Effectively communicating and collaborating with colleagues from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds across different time zones.

• Balancing R&D Speed with Rigor: The inherent challenge of accelerating innovation and prototyping while maintaining the scientific rigor and quality standards demanded in high-tech manufacturing.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Equipment Training: In-depth training on operating and troubleshooting specific wet chemical processing and lithography equipment.

• IC Substrate Technology: Gaining comprehensive knowledge of the materials, processes, and technological advancements in IC substrate manufacturing.

• R&D Project Management Basics: Learning how R&D projects are planned, executed, and monitored, including aspects of DOE methodologies.

• International Exposure: Opportunities to work on global projects and potentially gain experience at other AT&S sites, broadening technical and cultural perspectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a junior role in a high-tech, regulated environment, emphasizing adaptation and skill acquisition. Growth opportunities are focused on deepening technical expertise and gaining broad exposure within the company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Process Execution: "Describe how you would ensure accuracy and safety when operating a piece of laboratory equipment for the first time, given a standard operating procedure." (Focus on systematic approach, reading instructions, safety checks, asking questions).

• Teamwork: "Tell me about a time you had to collaborate with others on a project, especially if there were different ideas or approaches. How did you contribute to a successful outcome?" (Highlight communication, compromise, shared goals).

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine an experiment you are running encounters an unexpected result. What are the first steps you would take to understand why?" (Emphasize systematic troubleshooting, data review, consulting resources).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in R&D operations at AT&S, specifically in prototyping, and what excites you about our industry?" (Connect your passion for technology, chemistry, manufacturing, and AT&S's mission).

• Adaptability: "This role requires working in a cleanroom and potentially traveling internationally. How do you see yourself adapting to these requirements?" (Show enthusiasm for new environments and structured protocols).

• Learning Attitude: "How do you approach learning new technical skills or operating unfamiliar equipment?" (Emphasize proactive learning, seeking guidance, practice).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Key Projects: Select 2-3 academic or personal projects that best demonstrate your hands-on skills, attention to detail, and understanding of scientific processes.

• Focus on Process: For each project, clearly explain the objective, the process you followed, the equipment/tools you used, and the results achieved. Emphasize any safety or quality considerations.

• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use numbers to describe your contributions or results (e.g., "analyzed data from 5 experimental runs," "performed 10 calibration checks").

• Be Prepared to Discuss: Be ready to answer detailed questions about your methodology, challenges encountered, and lessons learned during your portfolio projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong foundation in scientific principles, a methodical approach to operations, a commitment to safety and quality, and an eagerness to learn and contribute within a structured R&D environment.

📌 Application Steps

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

• Submit Your Application: Utilize the provided online application link on the AT&S careers portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your Chemistry degree, any relevant laboratory or technical experience, proficiency in MS Office and SAP, and your English language skills. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate examples of academic or personal projects that showcase hands-on technical work, process adherence, data analysis (especially in Excel), and experience with scientific equipment or lab environments.

• Research AT&S: Familiarize yourself with AT&S's products, its role in the electronics industry, and its commitment to innovation. Understand the importance of IC substrates and PCBs.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for common interview questions focusing on technical aptitude, problem-solving, teamwork, and your motivation for pursuing a career in R&D operations.

⚠️ 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.