Junior Engineer R&D Prototyping Quality

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Junior Engineer R&D Prototyping Quality

Company: AT&S Austria

Location: Leoben, Styria, Austria

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering / Research & Development

Date Posted: April 20, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is situated within the Research & Development (R&D) team, focusing on the critical areas of prototyping and quality assurance for cutting-edge IC substrates and printed circuit boards.

• The position involves hands-on engagement with high-tech equipment and advanced manufacturing processes, contributing directly to product innovation and quality objectives.

• As an entry-level engineer, you will gain invaluable experience in a global leader's industrialization of leading-edge technologies, working with international project teams.

• The role demands a strong commitment to safety protocols, meticulous handling of electronic materials, and a structured approach to technical tasks to support continuous improvement initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically for an entry-level engineer, implying a focus on learning and development within a structured R&D environment. The emphasis on "Quality" within the title suggests a strong integration with quality control processes and methodologies from the outset.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Safely operate and maintain high-tech equipment and electronic materials, strictly adhering to all established safety regulations and protocols.

• Contribute to the execution of technical tasks and R&D projects, ensuring alignment with industry standards, innovation processes, and best practices to drive continuous improvement.

• Support the operation, evaluation, qualification, and safe handling of advanced R&D, process, and metrology equipment essential for IC substrate manufacturing.

• Perform essential calibration, analysis, cleaning, and maintenance activities to guarantee optimal performance and reliability of all assigned equipment.

• Actively scout, evaluate, qualify, and manage equipment to ensure effective technical support and comprehensive knowledge availability within the R&D team.

• Collaborate effectively within cross-functional and international teams, providing crucial technical input and support to colleagues to achieve project goals.

• Support trials, Design of Experiments (DOEs), prototype manufacturing, and measurement activities to accelerate the development of new processes and products.

• Take ownership of assigned tasks and equipment, ensuring meticulous handling, proper protection of intellectual property, and adherence to project timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of hands-on equipment operation, process support, and collaborative teamwork, typical for an entry-level R&D engineering role in a manufacturing context. The emphasis on "scouting, evaluating, qualifying, and handling equipment" suggests involvement in the procurement and validation of new R&D tools.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a technical, R&D, or manufacturing environment, preferably within the electronics, semiconductor, or related industries.

Required Skills:

• Fluent English proficiency in both spoken and written communication, essential for international collaboration and technical documentation.

• Solid IT skills, with a strong command of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

• Ability to work in cleanroom environments, understanding and adhering to gowning and contamination control procedures.

• Willingness to work overtime and in a 2-shift operation as required by project demands.

• Structured, careful, and responsible working style with a keen eye for detail and commitment to quality.

• Open-minded, communicative personality, comfortable and effective working within international and diverse teams.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with SAP or Lotus Notes systems.

• Familiarity with metrology equipment and calibration procedures.

• Basic understanding of Design of Experiments (DOEs) and statistical analysis.

• Prior exposure to IC substrate or printed circuit board manufacturing processes.

• Experience with handling and documenting intellectual property.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a foundational technical education and strong communication skills, aligning with an entry-level role. The preference for SAP/Lotus Notes and specific industry experience suggests areas where candidates can differentiate themselves. The willingness to work shifts and travel indicates the practical demands of the role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase examples of technical tasks performed, demonstrating adherence to safety and quality standards in a lab or manufacturing setting.

• Include documentation or descriptions of equipment operation, calibration, or maintenance activities, highlighting attention to detail and process rigor.

• Present any contributions to R&D projects, detailing your role in testing, prototyping, or data collection phases.

Process Documentation:

• Provide evidence of structured note-taking or documentation practices for technical procedures, experiments, or equipment logs.

• Illustrate how you would approach documenting a new R&D process or equipment setup for knowledge transfer.

• Showcase any experience in creating or following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for technical tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role, the portfolio will focus on demonstrating foundational technical aptitude, process adherence, and learning potential rather than complex project ownership. The emphasis is on the approach to tasks and documentation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Structured and tailor-made onboarding program to facilitate a smooth transition into the role and company.

• Continual training opportunities to support professional development and skill enhancement in R&D and manufacturing technologies.

• Modern company canteen offering freshly prepared meals daily, promoting employee well-being.

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

• Diverse health measures and a comprehensive range of employee benefits contributing to a positive work environment.

• Opportunities for long-term growth within an international company and meaningful role.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are based on a 40-hour week. The role may require flexibility to accommodate overtime and a 2-shift operation as dictated by project timelines and production needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimation is based on the provided collective agreement group (E) and typical entry-level ranges for technical roles in Austria. The benefits are directly extracted from the job description, highlighting AT&S's commitment to employee development and well-being.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry:

Company Size:

Founded:

Team Structure:

• The role is part of the R&D Team at the Headquarters in Leoben, Austria. This team is likely composed of specialized engineers and technicians focused on developing and prototyping new products and technologies.

• Reporting Structure: As a Junior Engineer, you will likely report to an R&D Team Lead or a Senior Engineer who provides guidance and oversight.

Methodology:

• The R&D team likely employs methodologies focused on structured experimentation (e.g., DOEs), rigorous data analysis, and precise equipment operation to validate new technologies.

• Continuous improvement is a stated objective, suggesting an environment where process optimization and efficiency gains are actively sought.

Company Website:

• https://www.ats.net/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context highlights AT&S's position as a global leader in a high-tech manufacturing niche. This implies a sophisticated R&D operation where quality, innovation, and process excellence are paramount.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

Reporting Structure:

Operations Impact:

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific R&D processes, advanced equipment operation (e.g., metrology, prototyping machinery), and quality control methodologies. This could lead to specialization in areas like materials science, process engineering, or quality management.

• Industry Specialization: Potential to become an expert in IC substrate and PCB manufacturing technologies, a highly sought-after skill set in the global electronics industry.

• Leadership Potential: With proven performance and continued development, progression to roles such as Senior Engineer, R&D Project Lead, or specialized roles within Quality Assurance or Process Development is possible.

• International Exposure: Opportunities for temporary assignments or travel to other AT&S global locations to gain broader international experience and exposure to different operational environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career analysis emphasizes the developmental nature of this junior role. Growth is framed around acquiring specialized technical skills within the company's core competencies and potentially moving into more senior or specialized engineering positions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

Office Location(s):

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The workspace is designed to foster collaboration among cross-functional and international teams. Expect to work closely with colleagues from R&D, quality assurance, and potentially manufacturing.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to advanced R&D equipment, prototyping machinery, metrology tools, and standard office technology (PCs, network access). Specific software for data analysis and project management will be available.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular team meetings, project discussions, and knowledge-sharing sessions, both formal and informal.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is based on a 40-hour week. However, the role requires flexibility to accommodate overtime and a 2-shift operation when project demands necessitate it. This is common in R&D and manufacturing environments to meet critical deadlines and ensure continuous process operation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is described as a blend of office, lab, and potentially cleanroom settings, emphasizing the technical and collaborative nature of the role. The flexibility required in the work schedule is a key consideration for candidates.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of your application, resume, and cover letter to assess qualifications against the role requirements.

• Technical Interview(s): Likely involves discussions with R&D engineers or team leads covering your technical background, understanding of R&D principles, equipment handling experience, and problem-solving approach. Expect questions related to prototyping, quality control, and your educational projects.

• Practical/Case Study: You might be asked to discuss hypothetical scenarios related to equipment troubleshooting, process optimization, or quality issues. For an entry-level role, this could focus on your thought process and structured approach rather than deep industry knowledge.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: An opportunity to meet potential team members and assess your communication style, collaboration skills, and alignment with AT&S's values and work environment.

• Final Interview: Potentially with R&D management to discuss your overall fit, career aspirations, and confirm mutual interest.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Technical Projects: Highlight academic projects, internships, or personal projects that demonstrate your hands-on technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of engineering principles.

• Document Your Process: For each project, clearly outline the objective, your specific role, the methods/equipment used, challenges encountered, and the outcomes or lessons learned. Emphasize your structured approach.

• Quality & Safety Emphasis: If applicable, include examples where you prioritized quality, followed safety protocols, or contributed to process improvements.

• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work, even in academic projects (e.g., improved efficiency by X%, reduced error rate by Y%).

• Cleanroom Experience: If you have any experience or understanding of cleanroom protocols, be sure to mention it.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand AT&S: Research AT&S's products, markets (IC substrates, PCBs, AI, automotive, medical), and recent news to demonstrate genuine interest and understanding of their business.

• Brush up on Fundamentals: Review core engineering principles relevant to electronics manufacturing, materials science, basic circuit concepts, and quality control concepts.

• Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Think about examples from your studies or previous experiences that showcase your teamwork, problem-solving skills, responsibility, and eagerness to learn. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

• Questions for the Interviewer: Prepare thoughtful questions about the R&D team, specific projects, technology challenges, and career development opportunities within AT&S.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process and portfolio review advice are tailored for an entry-level engineering role, focusing on demonstrating foundational technical skills, learning potential, and a structured approach to problem-solving and documentation.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• High-Tech Equipment: Direct experience or ability to learn operation of advanced R&D, process, and metrology equipment specific to IC substrate and PCB manufacturing. This could include lithography, etching, deposition, inspection, and testing equipment.

• Prototyping Machinery: Familiarity with machinery used for building and testing prototypes.

• Metrology Equipment: Experience or training in using measurement tools and techniques for quality control and process validation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• MS Office Suite: Essential for data analysis, reporting, and documentation (Excel for data manipulation, Word for reports, PowerPoint for presentations).

• Data Analysis Tools: Potential use of statistical software or platforms for analyzing experimental data, though detailed knowledge might not be required at the junior level.

CRM & Automation:

• SAP/Lotus Notes: Preferred experience, indicating potential use in logistics, inventory management, or internal communication systems.

• Internal Process Management Systems: Likely use of company-specific software for project tracking, documentation, and workflow management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes hands-on experience with specialized manufacturing and measurement equipment, alongside standard office productivity tools. Familiarity with SAP/Lotus Notes is a plus, suggesting exposure to enterprise resource planning and collaboration platforms.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: A drive to develop and industrialize leading-edge technologies, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in IC substrates and PCBs.

• Quality: A fundamental commitment to precision, reliability, and meeting the highest standards in all aspects of product development and manufacturing.

• Responsibility: Taking ownership of tasks, equipment, and intellectual property, ensuring careful handling and diligent execution.

• Collaboration: Working effectively in diverse, international teams to achieve shared goals, valuing diverse perspectives and collective problem-solving.

• Continuous Improvement: An ongoing effort to optimize processes, enhance efficiency, and adapt to evolving technological landscapes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expect a collaborative environment where R&D, quality, and production teams work in tandem to bring new technologies from concept to market. Open communication and mutual support are key.

• Process Review Culture: An environment that encourages constructive feedback on processes and methodologies to foster continuous improvement and learning.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that values sharing technical insights, best practices, and lessons learned among team members to build collective expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture and values reflect a high-tech, quality-focused, and globally integrated engineering environment. Emphasis is placed on innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Adapting to Complex Technology: Familiarizing yourself with highly specialized IC substrate and PCB manufacturing processes and complex R&D equipment.

• Cleanroom Environment: Adjusting to the stringent protocols and physical requirements of working in a cleanroom.

• International Collaboration: Navigating communication and project management across different time zones and cultural nuances within global teams.

• Balancing R&D and Quality: Effectively contributing to both the innovative development of new prototypes and the rigorous quality assurance required for high-end products.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Technical Training: Access to training on advanced R&D equipment, metrology techniques, and specific manufacturing processes used by AT&S.

• Mentorship Programs: Guidance from experienced engineers and team leads to accelerate skill acquisition and career understanding.

• Exposure to Industry Trends: Opportunity to work with cutting-edge technologies relevant to AI, high-performance computing, automotive, and medical sectors.

• Potential for On-the-Job Certifications: Possibility of gaining certifications relevant to equipment operation, quality standards, or specific manufacturing processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are framed around the learning curve inherent in an entry-level role within a high-tech industry, while growth opportunities focus on skill acquisition and specialization within AT&S's core competencies.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Process Improvement: "Describe a time you improved a process or workflow, even in an academic setting. What was your approach?" (Focus on structured thinking, identifying inefficiencies, proposing solutions).

• Problem Solving: "Imagine a piece of R&D equipment isn't performing as expected during a prototype run. What steps would you take to diagnose and address the issue?" (Emphasize a systematic troubleshooting approach, safety, data gathering, and escalation).

• Teamwork & Collaboration: "Tell me about a time you worked on a team project with diverse members. How did you contribute to its success and handle any disagreements?" (Highlight communication, active listening, and collaborative problem-solving).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in AT&S and this specific role in R&D Prototyping Quality?" (Connect your skills, interests, and career goals to the company's mission and the role's responsibilities).

• Learning Agility: "How do you approach learning new technical skills or complex information?" (Demonstrate a proactive, structured learning methodology).

• Adaptability: "This role requires working in a cleanroom and potentially with 2-shift operations. How do you feel about these requirements?" (Show enthusiasm and adaptability).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Relevance: Select projects that best demonstrate your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of quality/process concepts relevant to R&D and manufacturing.

• Structure Your Examples: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly articulate your contributions and the outcomes.

• Show, Don't Just Tell: If possible, include visual aids (diagrams, photos if appropriate and allowed) or detailed descriptions of your work.

• Focus on Process and Learning: For an entry-level role, emphasize your thought process, how you approached challenges, what you learned, and your commitment to quality and safety.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your projects, your methodology, and your understanding of the role's requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice focuses on demonstrating foundational engineering skills, a proactive learning attitude, and good communication/collaboration capabilities, which are key for an entry-level R&D role.

📌 Application Steps

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

• Submit Your Application: Visit the provided career link on career.ats.net and submit your application, ensuring all required fields are completed accurately.

• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight relevant technical skills, academic projects, any internship experience, and your understanding of quality, prototyping, and R&D processes. Use keywords from the job description naturally.

• Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that expresses your enthusiasm for AT&S and this specific role. Clearly articulate why you are a strong fit, referencing your technical education, eagerness to learn, and alignment with the company's innovative culture.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather examples of academic projects, lab work, or any relevant technical contributions. Focus on demonstrating your process, problem-solving approach, and attention to detail. Be ready to discuss these examples confidently.

• Research AT&S: Thoroughly research AT&S's products, markets, technological focus (IC substrates, PCBs, AI applications), and company values. This will help you tailor your application and prepare insightful questions for the interview.

⚠️ 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.

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