Work on this bottleneck

Liquid helium (He-4)

How this is computedA posting is filed under a bottleneck when its title names one of that bottleneck’s terms, or its description names them at least twice (title only for software and business roles); its role family is the first family whose title terms its title names.Method →Code → open role filed here · Why it binds, and who holds it

The only practical way to reach the temperatures superconducting magnets and some chip tools need. It cannot be manufactured.

The roles it needs

Judged by Substrata, open to challenge · 2026-09-24 · not reviewed by anyone who hires for it

Industrial gases and cryogenics

Running the plants and cold systems that separate, purify and ship helium, neon and the rest.

1 (Computed: A posting is filed under a bottleneck when its title names one of that bottleneck’s terms, or its description names them at least twice (title only for software and business roles); its role family is the first family whose title terms its title names.) open here

Technicians and operators

Hands on the line: running, checking and fixing production — often no degree needed.

0 (Computed: A posting is filed under a bottleneck when its title names one of that bottleneck’s terms, or its description names them at least twice (title only for software and business roles); its role family is the first family whose title terms its title names.) open here

Field service and equipment

People who install, keep running and repair the machines at a customer’s site.

Open roles

All with filters →

Senior Mechanical Engineer (Cryogenics)
MetOxHouston, TXIndustrial gases and cryogenicsSenior, staff or principalposted 14 Jul
Liquid helium (He-4)REBCO superconducting tape, 12 mm

What these postings ask for

Counted across the open roles above, by a published list of terms

Named in postings	Kind	Postings	Share
Bachelor’s degree asked	Credential	How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code →	How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code →
Cryogenics	Skill	How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code →	How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code →
Schematics and electrical troubleshooting	Skill	How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code →	How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code →

Industrial gases and cryogenics: the official record

What O*NET and ESCO say the work is and needs

O*NET 51-8092.00

Gas Plant Operators

Distribute or process gas for utility companies and others by controlling compressors to maintain specified pressures on main pipelines.

Job Zone 1-2: Very Little to Some Preparation Needed. Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not.

Core tasks

Monitor equipment functioning, observe temperature, level, and flow gauges, and perform regular unit checks to ensure that all equipment is operating as it should.
Distribute or process gas for utility companies or industrial plants, using panel boards, control boards, and semi-automatic equipment.
Control operation of compressors, scrubbers, evaporators, and refrigeration equipment to liquefy, compress, or regasify natural gas.

Most important knowledge

Public Safety and Security
Mechanical
English Language
Computers and Electronics
Mathematics

O*NET 31.0 Database (US Department of Labor, CC BY 4.0)

Technicians and operators: the official record

What O*NET and ESCO say the work is and needs

O*NET 51-9141.00 · ISCO 8212.3.6

Semiconductor Processing Technicians

Perform any or all of the following functions in the manufacture of electronic semiconductors: load semiconductor material into furnace; saw formed ingots into segments; load individual segment into crystal growing chamber and monitor controls; locate crystal axis in ingot using x-ray equipment and saw ingots into wafers; and clean, polish, and load wafers into series of special purpose furnaces, chemical baths, and equipment used to form circuitry and change conductive properties.

Job Zone 1-2: Very Little to Some Preparation Needed. Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not.

Core tasks

Inspect materials, components, or products for surface defects and measure circuitry, using electronic test equipment, precision measuring instruments, microscope, and standard procedures.
Study work orders, instructions, formulas, and processing charts to determine specifications and sequence of operations.
Clean semiconductor wafers using cleaning equipment, such as chemical baths, automatic wafer cleaners, or blow-off wands.

Most important knowledge

Production and Processing
English Language
Public Safety and Security
Computers and Electronics
Education and Training

Essential skills in ESCO: semiconductor processor

read assembly drawings
clean wafers
electronics
produce semiconductor crystals
monitor manufacturing quality standards
inspect semiconductor components
microelectronics
integrated circuits
ensure conformity to specifications
slice crystals into wafers
remove defective products
semiconductors
load electronic circuits onto wafers
wear cleanroom suit

O*NET 31.0 Database (US Department of Labor, CC BY 4.0) · ESCO API, European Commission

O*NET 17-3023.00 · ISCO 3114.1.6

Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians

Apply electrical and electronic theory and related knowledge, usually under the direction of engineering staff, to design, build, repair, adjust, and modify electrical components, circuitry, controls, and machinery for subsequent evaluation and use by engineering staff in making engineering design decisions.

Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed. Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Core tasks

Review electrical engineering plans to ensure adherence to design specifications and compliance with applicable electrical codes and standards.
Read blueprints, wiring diagrams, schematic drawings, or engineering instructions for assembling electronics units, applying knowledge of electronic theory and components.
Assemble, test, or maintain circuitry or electronic components, according to engineering instructions, technical manuals, or knowledge of electronics, using hand or power tools.

Most important knowledge

Engineering and Technology
Computers and Electronics
Design
English Language
Mechanical

Essential skills in ESCO: microelectronics engineering technician

test microelectronics
solder electronics
meet deadlines
prepare production prototypes
read engineering drawings
adjust engineering designs
liaise with engineers
microprocessors
design drawings
microsensors
inspect quality of products
record test data
align components
electronics

O*NET 31.0 Database (US Department of Labor, CC BY 4.0) · ESCO API, European Commission

Field service and equipment: the official record

What O*NET and ESCO say the work is and needs

O*NET 49-2094.00 · ISCO 2433.1

Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment

Repair, test, adjust, or install electronic equipment, such as industrial controls, transmitters, and antennas.

Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed. Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Core tasks

Test faulty equipment to diagnose malfunctions, using test equipment or software, and applying knowledge of the functional operation of electronic units and systems.
Maintain equipment logs that record performance problems, repairs, calibrations, or tests.
Set up and test industrial equipment to ensure that it functions properly.

Most important knowledge

Computers and Electronics
Mechanical
Production and Processing
Customer and Personal Service
Mathematics

Essential skills in ESCO: after-sales service technician

execute after sales activities
maintenance and repair
characteristics of services
advise on merchandise features
create solutions to problems
customer service
product comprehension
contact customers
characteristics of products
customer relationship management
implement sales strategies
implement customer follow-up
communicate with customers
provide customer follow-up services

O*NET 31.0 Database (US Department of Labor, CC BY 4.0) · ESCO API, European Commission

O*NET 49-9041.00 · ISCO 7233.7

Industrial Machinery Mechanics

Repair, install, adjust, or maintain industrial production and processing machinery or refinery and pipeline distribution systems. May also install, dismantle, or move machinery and heavy equipment according to plans.

Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed. Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Core tasks

Repair or maintain the operating condition of industrial production or processing machinery or equipment.
Repair or replace broken or malfunctioning components of machinery or equipment.
Clean, lubricate, or adjust parts, equipment, or machinery.

Most important knowledge

Mechanical
English Language
Production and Processing
Engineering and Technology
Design

Essential skills in ESCO: industrial machinery mechanic

use testing equipment
resolve equipment malfunctions
inspect industrial equipment
perform test run
perform maintenance on installed equipment
troubleshoot
secure working area
pneumatics
mechanics
electricity
hydraulics
electrical wiring plans
conduct routine machinery checks
write records for repairs

O*NET 31.0 Database (US Department of Labor, CC BY 4.0) · ESCO API, European Commission

Where to train

Public programmes for these role families, each on its official page

Apprenticeship · United States

Technician Apprenticeship Program ↗

TSMC Arizona

Registered apprenticeship, paid hourly: 12-18 months for equipment/process tracks (a 36-48-month track is also listed)

On-the-job training at TSMC AZ plus related technical instruction via Estrella Mountain CC, Rio Salado College and Northern Arizona University; requires 18+ and high school diploma/GED.