What are the responsibilities and job description for the Technical Customer Support Engineer position at Pfeiffer Vacuum?
SUMMARY
The Silicon Valley Innovation Center (SVIC) from Pfeiffer Vacuum is dedicated to delivering rapid support to our semiconductor customers. The Customer Engineering department functions as the technical backbone of Pfeiffer US OEM Semiconductor sales. Our mission is to offer outstanding customer service through expert product configuration, new product launches, and ongoing support of our comprehensive vacuum product range, including Fab solutions for Semiconductor OEMs.
In this role, you will delve deeply into vacuum theory and the corresponding equipment that empowers the production of cutting-edge products in Semiconductor Fabs. Collaborating closely with leading experts in vacuum technology across our global network in the US, Europe, and Asia, you will tackle challenges head-on and drive projects to successful completion. This position allows you to apply your mechanical engineering expertise to develop innovative setups that showcase our products.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Stay informed on trends and advancements in the vacuum industry by participating in professional conferences, conducting seminars, and networking with local partners.
- Proactively enhance your knowledge of vacuum technology, processes, and industry practices.
- Act as a liaison between R&D in Europe and the US to provide prompt and precise responses to product inquiries while closely collaborating with product and account management.
- Strengthen technical relationships with our OEM customers by identifying their product needs, proposing solutions, and resolving technical issues through customer interactions and visits.
- Take ownership of customer projects through all phases of the sales process, new product introductions, and ongoing support, leveraging resources across our global organization.
- Exhibit strong project management skills to ensure alignment and collaboration among stakeholders, meeting deadlines effectively.
- Build and maintain strong connections within the organization, including Market Management, R&D, Product Management, Manufacturing, and Sales, to ensure the success of customer projects.
- Design and deliver engaging presentations and training sessions for product demonstrations and customer education.
- Organize and perform customer demonstrations, installing pumps and components at customer locations.
- Address customer support requests efficiently for both customers and sales colleagues.
- Nurture robust relationships with our customers.
- Construct and maintain vacuum test fixtures within the SVIC lab.
- Develop CAPEX justification materials for new tools and equipment.
- Execute vacuum simulations and characterization tests.
- Contribute to innovative and potentially disruptive solution development.
- Create test plans utilizing DOE principles for product capability verification and quality assurance.
- Assist in establishing and upholding a PM and 5S program for lab and equipment maintenance.
- Expected travel of approximately 20%, including overnight and occasional weekend trips.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
Company Values
Pfeiffer Vacuum is committed to fostering a culture of customer-centricity where employees embody values such as reliability, performance-driven innovation, service orientation, and agility in their business activities. We prioritize open-mindedness, trust, effective communication, strategic thinking, accountability, and ethical practices to empower and engage all employees.
General Qualifications :
Education and Experience
BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering or a related field; 2 to 5 years of relevant experience in product engineering, application engineering, technical support, or service roles within the semiconductor industry.
Minimum of 2 years managing technical projects within the semiconductor sector, with knowledge of semiconductor manufacturing tools.
Preferred direct experience with vacuum systems.
Software Skills
Proficient in SolidWorks or similar 3D modeling software, Microsoft Office; experience with Microsoft Project and MATLAB is advantageous.
Knowledge of SAP is a plus, along with a willingness to learn.
Language Skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Mathematical Skills
Advanced mathematical capabilities.
Reasoning Ability
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities and minimal direction, allowing for accurate and timely completion of tasks.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
Valid driver's license required.
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
Fabrication power and hand tools, multimeters, oscilloscopes, vacuum gauges, flow gauges, and pressure gauges.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This is a hybrid role requiring on-site presence in San Jose, California for three days weekly, with potential work in office, factory, or home settings. Employees working remotely must comply with core work hours and attend in-person meetings as applicable.
Pfeiffer Vacuum is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, or disability status.
If you need accommodations or experience difficulties applying for employment, please reach out for assistance.
