Jobs

Many North Seattle College (NSC) Nanotechnology Program graduates work as nanotechnicians — conducting research in a cleanroom, fabricating tools or parts in a manufacturing facility, or investigating new technologies in a lab. Alumni work in fields as diverse as energy, biotechnology, semiconductors, and materials manufacturing companies. Others continue their education at four-year colleges. NSC alumni can be found in University of Washington labs as well as companies throughout the Pacific Northwest including Silicon Designs, EnerG2, Hummingbird Scientific and RJC Enterprises.

On the job

Nanotechnicians measure, make, test and study nanostructures and microstructures. Since nanostructures are invisible to the human eye, nanotechnicians use special high-powered microscopes and tools in their daily work. Two commonly used microscopes are Atomic Force Microscopes (AFM) and Scanning Electron Microscopes (SEM). 

Working in a research lab

Nanotechnicians may work in a research lab at a university or in a company research & development facility. Nanotechnicians assist scientists and engineers in their research and keep careful, accurate records of their daily work. 

Working in a “fab”

Some nanotechnicians work in a “fab” or factory. Semiconductor companies build nanostructures as part of the computer chip development process in large fabs. Fabs have very large cleanrooms. 
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Working in a biotech or pharma company

These are companies that develop diagnostic tools, drugs to combat diseases, medical equipment, treatments for various illnesses.
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“Bunny suits” and “Cleanrooms”

Cleanrooms are spaces with special filtration systems to ensure that particles in the air will not contaminate a sample. Temperature and humidity are also controlled. Many nanotechnicians work in cleanrooms to fabricate—or build—nanostructures. In order to prevent additional particles from entering the cleanroom, technicians wear special suits, often called bunny suits. Note, that not all nanotechnicians work in cleanrooms.​

What else do nanotechnicians do?

Nanotechnicians write reports and share their results with scientists and engineers in the lab. Nanotechnicians may prepare samples for microscopes, analyze data from experiments using software or repair instruments and tools. Some nanotechnicians order new supplies, check safety protocols or install new software. Experienced nanotechnicians may train new technicians on procedures and techniques.

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​Nanotech Program AAS-T and - Certificate
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Core Competencies and Technical Skills of NSC Nanotechnology Program Graduates​