Junior Engineer R&D Prototyping Operations

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Junior Engineer R&D - Prototyping Operations

Company: AT&S

Location: Leoben, Styria, Austria

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Research & Development Operations / Manufacturing Operations

Date Posted: July 24, 2026

Experience Level: Junior (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Contribute to cutting-edge R&D projects focused on IC substrate and printed circuit board manufacturing, driving innovation in high-tech sectors.

• Operate and maintain advanced R&D equipment, including specialized machinery for wet/chemical processing and lithography, ensuring high-quality prototype development.

• Execute technical tasks within project and equipment specifications, adhering to AT&S's rigorous Innovation Process and safety regulations.

• Collaborate within international, cross-functional teams to share knowledge, promote best practices, and achieve collective innovation and quality objectives.

• Actively participate in scouting, screening, and monitoring new equipment, and transfer technical expertise to colleagues.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title mentions "Junior Engineer R&D - Prototyping Operations," the responsibilities and requirements point towards a role deeply embedded in the operational execution of R&D prototyping within a manufacturing context. This is not a purely theoretical R&D role but one that requires hands-on engagement with machinery and processes. The term "Operations" in the title emphasizes the practical, hands-on nature of this position within the R&D lifecycle, focusing on the efficient and effective execution of prototyping tasks.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Operate and manage advanced R&D equipment critical for IC Substrate manufacturing, including but not limited to wet/chemical processing machines (e.g., for Adhesion Promotion, Dry Film Stripping) and lithography equipment (e.g., Exposer).

• Execute R&D project tasks precisely according to defined technical requirements, equipment capabilities, and AT&S's established Innovation Process, ensuring compliance with all relevant AT&S rules and regulations.

• Actively participate in cross-functional and international project teams, fostering collaboration and proactively promoting the adoption of best practices in prototyping operations.

• Assist in scouting, screening, and monitoring new equipment technologies, and contribute to the knowledge transfer of technical insights and operational know-how to team members.

• Handle high-tech equipment and electronic materials with strict adherence to all relevant safety aspects, protocols, and safety requirements, ensuring a secure working environment.

• Perform essential calibration, analysis, and cleaning procedures on R&D equipment according to predefined plans and schedules to maintain optimal performance and accuracy.

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

• Ensure the diligent protection of Intellectual Property (IP) related to all activities undertaken within AT&S's R&D and prototyping operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a hands-on role focused on the practical execution of prototyping within an R&D setting. The emphasis on specific equipment types (wet/chemical processing, lithography), adherence to an "Innovation Process," and IP protection are critical for candidates to understand. This role requires a blend of technical operation and process adherence.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Degree from a technical school, technical college, or university in a relevant engineering or technical discipline. Equivalent professional background with demonstrable relevant experience will also be considered. Experience:

• Prior experience in a related technical or manufacturing field is considered an advantage, particularly in areas such as semiconductor manufacturing, electronics assembly, or advanced materials processing. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in operating and maintaining specialized manufacturing or R&D equipment, specifically in areas like wet/chemical processing or lithography.

• Strong understanding of technical requirements and project execution within an R&D or manufacturing context.

• Familiarity with safety protocols and the ability to handle high-tech equipment and materials responsibly.

• Competency in performing calibration, analysis, and cleaning procedures on complex machinery.

• Experience supporting experimental trials, DOEs, and the production of sample batches or prototypes.

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

• Proficiency in MS Office Suite for reporting, documentation, and data analysis. Preferred Skills:

• Hands-on experience with specific IC substrate or printed circuit board manufacturing processes.

• Knowledge of Design of Experiments (DOE) methodologies and execution.

• Familiarity with SAP for material or process tracking.

• Experience with Lotus Notes for communication and collaboration.

• Understanding of Intellectual Property (IP) protection principles in a corporate R&D environment.

• Experience working within a cleanroom environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements highlight a blend of technical operational skills, educational background, and soft skills. The emphasis on specific equipment and processes, alongside the need for English fluency and MS Office skills, are key differentiators. The "advantage" for prior experience and specific systems like SAP and Lotus Notes suggests a preference for candidates who can hit the ground running.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate experience in operating and troubleshooting complex R&D or manufacturing equipment, ideally showcasing specific examples related to IC substrate or PCB production.

• Provide evidence of successful execution of technical tasks within project timelines, highlighting contributions to prototype development and product testing.

• Showcase examples of process adherence, including documentation of calibration, analysis, and cleaning procedures, emphasizing attention to detail and quality.

• Illustrate contributions to cross-functional team projects, demonstrating collaboration, knowledge sharing, and best practice promotion in a technical environment. Process Documentation:

• Examples of documenting experimental procedures, trial results, and sample batch manufacturing processes, emphasizing clarity and reproducibility.

• Documentation related to equipment calibration, maintenance logs, and quality control checks performed on R&D machinery.

• Any records or reports detailing the optimization of prototyping processes or improvements in equipment performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a junior R&D operations role, a formal portfolio might not be strictly required, but candidates should be prepared to discuss their practical experience with equipment, processes, and teamwork. The focus should be on demonstrating hands-on capability, understanding of technical procedures, and collaborative spirit, rather than formal project management documentation. The "Portfolio Essentials" should be framed as discussion points or examples from previous work/academic projects.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on the Austrian Collective Agreement for the Electrical and Electronics Industry, employment group E, for a Junior Engineer role in Leoben, Austria, a competitive salary is offered. The typical gross monthly salary for this position, considering experience level (0-2 years) and the specified industry group, would likely range from €2,800 to €3,500. This estimate is subject to individual qualifications, specific experience, and performance. Benefits:

• Structured Onboarding Program: A tailored program designed to integrate new employees effectively into the company and their role.

• Continuous Training Opportunities: Access to ongoing professional development and skill enhancement programs.

• Modern Company Canteen: On-site dining facilities offering freshly prepared meals daily.

• Convenient Parking: Free parking spaces available for employees.

• E-charging Stations: Facilities for charging electric vehicles.

• Diverse Health Measures: A range of health and wellness initiatives to support employee well-being.

• Employee Benefits: A comprehensive package of additional employee benefits, the specifics of which are usually detailed during the hiring process.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours, typically 40 hours per week, in line with Austrian labor laws and industry standards. Flexibility may be discussed based on operational needs and project requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is estimated based on the provided collective agreement and typical junior engineering salaries in Austria for the electrical and electronics industry. The benefits are directly extracted from the job description, highlighting the company's commitment to employee support and development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Electronics Manufacturing, specifically high-end IC substrates and printed circuit boards. AT&S is a leader in industrializing leading-edge technologies for critical sectors like Mobile Devices & Substrates, Automotive & Aerospace, Industrial, Medical, and high-performance computing for AI applications.

Company Size: AT&S is a significant global player with plants in Austria, China, India, Malaysia, and numerous sales offices worldwide. This indicates a large, established organization with a substantial workforce and complex operations.

Founded: (Information not provided in the raw data, but AT&S has a long history, founded in 1897, indicating a stable and experienced company.)

Team Structure:

• The role is within the R&D Team in Leoben, Austria, focusing on Prototyping Operations. This suggests a specialized unit within the broader R&D department.

• The team likely consists of engineers, technicians, and researchers working collaboratively on developing and testing new products and technologies.

• Reporting structure is not explicitly defined but is typical for a junior role within an R&D department, likely reporting to an R&D Team Lead or a Senior Engineer. Methodology:

• AT&S emphasizes industrializing leading-edge technologies and driving innovation. The R&D team operates within a structured "Innovation Process."

• A strong focus on quality objectives and the practical application of advanced R&D processes is evident.

• Collaboration with international project teams and the promotion of best practices are core operational methodologies.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's position as a global leader in high-end IC substrates and PCBs implies a culture of technological advancement, precision, and innovation. The R&D team's structure suggests a collaborative environment focused on practical problem-solving and hands-on execution within prototyping operations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a "Junior Engineer" role, typically representing an entry-level position for individuals with a technical education and 0-2 years of relevant experience. It's designed for individuals starting their careers in R&D or manufacturing operations.

Reporting Structure: As a junior member, the role likely reports to a Senior Engineer or a Team Lead within the R&D Prototyping Operations team. This structure provides mentorship and guidance.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts AT&S's innovation pipeline by supporting the development, testing, and optimization of new products and technologies. Successful prototyping operations are crucial for bringing next-generation IC substrates and PCBs to market, influencing the company's competitive edge and its ability to meet future demands in high-performance computing, AI, automotive, and medical sectors.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific R&D prototyping operations, such as wet/chemical processing, lithography, or advanced materials handling, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain experience working with various departments (e.g., materials science, process engineering, quality control) and international teams, broadening understanding of the product lifecycle.

• Project Leadership: As experience grows, take on more responsibility within R&D projects, potentially leading small-scale trials or specific operational tasks.

• Further Education/Training: Leverage company-provided training and potentially pursue advanced certifications or further academic studies in specialized areas of engineering or manufacturing.

• International Experience: The willingness to travel and stay abroad suggests potential opportunities for international assignments or collaborations within AT&S's global facilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This junior role is positioned as a foundational step for a career in advanced manufacturing operations and R&D. The growth path emphasizes specialization, cross-functional collaboration, and gaining practical, hands-on experience within a leading technology company.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site in Leoben, Austria, within an R&D and manufacturing facility. This implies a professional, technically focused environment.

Office Location(s): Leoben, Styria, Austria. This location is central to AT&S's operations and likely offers modern facilities conducive to R&D and manufacturing activities.

Workspace Context:

• Hands-on Operations: The workspace will involve direct interaction with advanced R&D equipment, requiring a focus on operational execution and precision.

• Cleanroom Environment: A significant aspect of the role involves working in a cleanroom, necessitating adherence to strict protocols for contamination control and personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Collaborative Setting: The role requires working within cross-functional and international teams, suggesting an environment that encourages communication, knowledge sharing, and teamwork.

• Technological Focus: Access to high-tech equipment and electronic materials is integral to the daily work.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time (40 hours/week) with potential for operational needs to influence specific hours. The role is on-site, requiring physical presence at the Leoben facility.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared for an industrial R&D setting, including the specific requirements of cleanroom work. The environment is technically driven and collaborative, with a strong emphasis on operational execution and safety.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and application to assess educational background, relevant skills, and alignment with junior engineer requirements.

• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on your understanding of R&D processes, specific equipment (e.g., lithography, wet processing), safety protocols, and technical problem-solving abilities. Be prepared to discuss any relevant academic projects or prior work experience.

• Team/Manager Interview: Assessment of cultural fit, communication skills, willingness to learn, and ability to work in international, cross-functional teams. This may include behavioral questions.

• Potential Practical Assessment: Depending on the role, there might be a short practical exercise or a more in-depth discussion about handling specific equipment or troubleshooting scenarios.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While a formal portfolio might not be mandatory for a junior role, prepare to discuss:
  • Academic Projects: Highlight any projects involving technical experimentation, equipment operation, data collection, or process optimization.
  • Hands-on Experience: Be ready to detail your experience with any machinery, tools, or laboratory equipment, focusing on your role and contributions.
  • Technical Documentation: If you have examples of technical reports, lab notebooks, or process descriptions from studies or previous roles, have them ready to reference.
  • Problem-Solving Examples: Prepare to describe a technical challenge you faced and how you approached solving it, emphasizing your thought process and any solutions implemented.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Scenarios: Anticipate questions about operating specific types of equipment, troubleshooting common issues, or applying safety procedures in a manufacturing/R&D context.

• Process Understanding: Be ready to discuss your understanding of concepts like calibration, quality control, and adherence to operational processes.

• Teamwork & Communication: Prepare examples demonstrating your ability to collaborate with diverse teams, communicate technical information effectively, and learn from colleagues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a junior role will likely focus on foundational technical understanding, practical aptitude, and the candidate's potential to learn and grow within the AT&S R&D operations environment. Emphasize eagerness to learn and hands-on capability.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• R&D Equipment: Hands-on operation of specialized machinery for IC Substrate manufacturing, including:

  • Wet/Chemical Processing Equipment: Machines for Adhesion Promotion, Dry Film Stripping, and other chemical treatments.
  • Lithography Equipment: Such as Exposer machines.

• Measurement & Inspection Tools: Equipment for performing precise measurements and quality checks on prototypes and samples.

Analytics & Reporting:

• MS Office Suite: Essential for reporting, data analysis, and documentation. Proficiency in Excel for data handling and analysis is expected.

CRM & Automation:

• SAP: Mentioned as a preferred skill, indicating potential use for material tracking, inventory, or process management.

• Lotus Notes: Mentioned as a preferred skill, likely used for internal communication, email, and potentially document management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily weighted towards specialized manufacturing equipment critical for R&D prototyping. Proficiency with standard office software (MS Office) is a must, with SAP and Lotus Notes being advantageous. The core technical requirement is the ability to operate and understand complex R&D machinery.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Future-Shaping: A core value is contributing to the future of interconnected technology by industrializing leading-edge solutions.

• Quality & Excellence: A strong emphasis on meeting AT&S's innovation and quality objectives through precise execution of R&D processes.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: The culture promotes working in cross-functional and international teams, valuing shared knowledge and best practices.

• Safety & Responsibility: High importance is placed on adhering to all safety aspects and requirements when handling high-tech equipment and materials.

• Continuous Learning: A willingness and ability to cooperate and constantly learn are key attributes sought in employees, reflecting a dynamic R&D environment.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role demands close collaboration with colleagues across different technical disciplines and potentially with international teams.

• Knowledge Sharing: Actively promoting best practices and transferring know-how to colleagues is a key aspect of the collaborative approach.

• Process-Oriented: Working within defined processes like the AT&S Innovation Process requires a structured and compliant collaboration style.

• Open Communication: The "open-minded, communicative" profile suggests a culture that values open dialogue and idea exchange.

📝 Enhancement Note: AT&S appears to foster a culture that balances innovation and technological advancement with a strong emphasis on operational discipline, safety, and collaborative teamwork. The R&D operations team likely values individuals who are proactive, detail-oriented, and eager to contribute to collective success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Operating Complex Equipment: Mastering the operation and maintenance of advanced R&D machinery in a high-tech manufacturing environment.

• Cleanroom Environment: Adapting to and consistently adhering to the strict protocols and working conditions of a cleanroom.

• International Collaboration: Effectively communicating and collaborating with team members from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds.

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping pace with the continuous development of new equipment and technologies in the IC substrate and PCB industry.

• Adherence to Strict Processes: Ensuring consistent compliance with AT&S's Innovation Process and safety regulations in all tasks.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Technical Training: Opportunities to become proficient in specific areas of IC substrate manufacturing, such as advanced lithography or chemical processing techniques.

• Hands-on R&D Experience: Direct involvement in cutting-edge R&D projects, providing invaluable practical experience in prototyping.

• Cross-Cultural Exposure: Working within an international team offers exposure to different work methodologies and global perspectives.

• Mentorship: Potential to learn from experienced engineers and technicians within the R&D team.

• Career Progression: A clear path exists for junior engineers to grow into more senior operational or technical roles within R&D or manufacturing at AT&S.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a hands-on R&D operations role in a highly technical industry. The growth opportunities are substantial for a junior professional looking to build a solid foundation in advanced manufacturing and R&D.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Technical Operations: "Describe your experience with operating or maintaining technical equipment. Can you walk me through a process you followed for calibration or troubleshooting?" (Focus on any technical equipment, not just specific AT&S machines.)

• Process Adherence: "How do you ensure you follow technical instructions and safety protocols accurately, especially when working with new equipment or processes?" (Highlight attention to detail and understanding of SOPs.)

• Teamwork & Collaboration: "Tell me about a time you worked in a team to achieve a technical goal. What was your role, and how did you contribute to the team's success?" (Prepare an example of collaboration, ideally in a technical or academic setting.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in R&D Prototyping Operations at AT&S, and what excites you about our industry?" (Research AT&S's role in IC substrates, PCBs, and their target markets like AI and Automotive.)

• Learning Aptitude: "This role requires continuous learning. Can you give an example of a time you had to quickly learn a new technical skill or process?" (Focus on your willingness and ability to adapt and acquire new knowledge.)

• Cleanroom Experience: "Are you comfortable working in a cleanroom environment? What do you understand about the requirements of working in such a setting?" (Show awareness of the need for strict protocols and PPE.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Project Deep Dive: Be prepared to elaborate on any relevant academic projects or prior work experiences. Clearly articulate your specific responsibilities, the technical challenges you encountered, and the outcomes.

• Process Walkthrough: If discussing a project involving equipment or a process, be ready to explain the steps involved, the tools or machinery used, and any data you collected or analyzed.

• Highlighting Key Skills: Explicitly connect your experiences to the required skills mentioned in the job description, such as equipment operation, calibration, problem-solving, and teamwork.

• Demonstrating Eagerness: Convey enthusiasm for learning and contributing to AT&S's innovation goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a solid technical foundation, a proactive learning attitude, and the ability to integrate into a structured, collaborative R&D operations environment. Highlighting any hands-on technical experience is crucial.

📌 Application Steps

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

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the AT&S career portal.

• Tailor your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight any technical education, hands-on experience with equipment, understanding of manufacturing processes, and relevant coursework or projects. Emphasize skills like problem-solving, attention to detail, and teamwork.

• Prepare to Discuss Technical Experience: Be ready to articulate your experience with technical equipment, laboratory work, or any process-oriented tasks, even if from academic projects.

• Research AT&S: Understand AT&S's position as a leading manufacturer of IC substrates and PCBs, their key markets (Automotive, Industrial, Medical, AI), and their commitment to innovation.

• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on demonstrating your technical aptitude, willingness to learn, and suitability for a hands-on R&D operations role in a cleanroom environment.

⚠️ 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.