The choice of my Master's degree was a key factor in where I am today. It allowed me to focus on studying the areas from my physics degree that I had the most interest in, namely lasers and nanotechnology. It was only from this study that I got to see the relevance of such areas in the semiconductor world and the high potential for employment in this industry.

One of my lecturers in my post grad degree was an ex Intel employee. He actively used this own real life experiences as case studies and it provided a great insight to the Intel workplace. When looking for employment towards the end of college, he provided some great advice on my future options and heavily encouraged me to look at applying for Intel.

I started in Intel as a graduate process engineer. My manager asked me during my regular one-on-one meetings, where I envision myself in the group for the upcoming new technology. It was here that I was able to express my interest in the ‘tool install’ area.

It wasn’t until many months later, after I had completed an assignment in the US, that I was asked to move to the Install-Qual group. It was great to evidence the personal interest that my manager had in my career progression to encourage this opportunity and this seems to be a value that Intel actively encourages in management.

I begin my day meeting the various contractors responsible for the design and construction of the new Fab 14 building. We discuss the construction schedule, milestones and any current or potential roadblocks. Although the various trades are highly skilled in their areas of design and construction, they have never designed a ‘next technology’ Intel fab! Therefore, experienced Intel tool owner input is extremely valuable here; from advice about fab layouts to details on a specific valve on a facility line.

A visit to the design “cave” is next up, where I problem solve any issues with the 3D modellers and can look real-time at the status of any 3D tool design. Before lunch, it’s either into the sub-fab construction zone or the new cleanroom to witness the current days’ work; which could be anything from area surveying to cleanroom readiness to tool pedestal move-in.

It’s a very dynamic environment at this time! After the busy mornings, the majority of the day is taken up with design reviews of the latest 2D and 3D models and any design meetings that have been scheduled for that day.

As an ‘install tool’ owner, I am responsible for managing the safe and successful install of new lithography tools into the new fab. This ranges from 3D design of the tool, to fabrication of pipework, to actual move-in of the main body and all the associated safety and quality checks that are required along the way. As you can see my job varies a lot!

The demands of the new technologies has meant that fabrication tools are ever increasing in size and complexity. These tools have thousands and thousands of metres of required facilities that all have to be modelled in increasingly smaller footprints, while still maintaining strict safety standards, functionality and ever stricter cost budgets. Its proving to be a tougher and tougher challenge to manage such a large scoped project with these constraints.

It’s quite cool to be working on the most advanced manufacturing process in the world. The first time you walk into the fab is like going to a different world.

The countless emails to trawl through on a daily basis.

I have quite a strong background in computers and technology so I certainly find myself falling into the role of technical support on projects e.g. automation of scripts, creating training guides for particular pieces of software, etc. It’s a valuable skill to have, particularly as some of my senior peers are technophobes!

Physics and Maths were probably the two most helpful subjects I studied in school. Problem solving and analytical skills are essential in any engineering or science role and these subjects actively develop these strengths.

• Honours Bachelor's Degree in Physics
• Master's of Electronic Engineering (Nanotechnology and Photonics)

From my physics background, I obtained a good grounding in many scientific and engineering fields including mechanics, electronics, chemistry, computers, etc. Having such a varied background has proved invaluable when troubleshooting problems and working with experienced peers in these fields.

Getting chosen to go on assignment to the New Mexico site was a standout moment in my career. I gained invaluable experience on a new technology, experienced a very different working culture and met some great peers who I still keep in regular contact with today. The opportunity to travel to some unique locations is a fantastic perk of this job.

I have quite a relaxed disposition which certainly helps when things aren’t going too smoothly. I think I am pretty good at focusing on the task during these times and not letting the larger problem cause stress for myself or my teammates.

I would love to do something that combines my strong interest in writing and my passion for technology, so perhaps a technology journalist would be the ideal job. Playing with the latest gadgets as part of my job is a dream perk!

Most definitely. Intel promotes a healthy work-life balance and as a result there is a lot of flexibility. There is never an issue with taking time off, or adjusting working hours to suit personal needs. I also work with a great group of people and we regularly play 5-a-side, organise socials and meet regularly outside work. Although, I could always do with being paid more!

Go for it! Intel is a fantastic company to work for.

The ability to work with people is the key attribute needed. Intel is a helping culture where people constantly collaborate their skills to get things done. You need to be able to approach problems analytically and methodically. Sometimes the environment can get stressful with project deadlines, etc. so having a good attitude and friendly disposition is key, particularly when working as part of a team. The ability to be able to switch off at home is a must!

It varies on a week to week basis. Currently trying to catch up with any act due to play Electric Picnic this year.

Anything with Bill Murray.

Virgo

Intel actively promotes training and development as a core part of my job role. I find myself in a classroom almost every week! I currently have plans to complete a project management course to aid in my current role.

Any job that involves problem solving and data analysis would be the ideal background for this job.