Exploring Career Paths in India's Semiconductor Industry

India's semiconductor industry is on the rise, with the recent launch of the Vikram-32 chip paving the way for numerous career opportunities. Government initiatives are expected to create one million jobs by 2026. This article explores the semiconductor ecosystem, educational pathways from certificate courses to PhDs, and available internships. Learn how to prepare for a successful career in this dynamic field and take advantage of the growing demand for skilled professionals.

By Ambika Singh Sep 6, 2025, 12:24 IST

Career Opportunities in Semiconductors

Career Opportunities: India has recently developed its inaugural space-grade computer chip for rockets, named Vikram-32. The semiconductor sector serves as the foundation for contemporary technology, impacting everything from smartphones and laptops to electric vehicles and advanced systems like artificial intelligence and IoT. Thanks to government initiatives such as 'Digital India', 'Make in India', and the 'India Semiconductor Mission', this industry is poised to generate significant job opportunities for the youth. A report indicates that this sector is expected to create an additional 1 million jobs across various fields by 2026.

With the swift growth in global demand and the expansion of digital infrastructure, now is an ideal time to consider a career in this field. Here’s how you can seize this opportunity and prepare for a successful career in semiconductors.

Understanding the Semiconductor Ecosystem

To begin, it’s crucial to grasp what semiconductors are. This industry encompasses several stages, including design, fabrication, packaging, and testing. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the distinctions between chip designers and manufacturers, the functionality of design tools like CAD and VLSI, and the significance of fabrication labs.

Educational Pathways: From Certificate Courses to PhD

After completing a B.Tech/BE in fields such as Electronics, Electrical, Instrumentation, Computer Science, or VLSI Design, you can pursue an M.Tech/ME in Microelectronics, Semiconductor Physics, or Embedded Systems. For those interested in research, a PhD is also an option.

There are diploma courses available in VLSI Design and Semiconductor Manufacturing, as well as certificate programs in Chip Design, PCB Design, ASIC, or FPGA. Platforms like NPTEL, Skill India (apprenticeshipindia.gov.in), and SWAYAM (swayam.gov.in) provide short-term courses and apprenticeship training for semiconductor technicians and operators. Prestigious institutions such as IITs and NITs offer advanced diploma courses, both online and offline, lasting from six months to one year.

Internships and Training Opportunities

Organizations like ISRO, DRDO, BEL, and the Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL) provide internships and project work for students in engineering or related fields. Companies such as Intel India, Micron, Qualcomm, and the Electronics Labs of IITs/NITs, along with C-DAC and SAMEER, also offer similar programs.