IM Flash starts hiring for Singapore fab

Signaling that the delayed 300mm fab in Singapore is moving closer to ramp up, IM Flash Technologies LLC is advertising dozens of jobs openings in the island city-state. IM Flash Singapore is currently looking to fill 61 jobs, including engineering, procurement and recruiting positions.

Last year, Intel and Micron delayed equipping the Singaporean fab amid the height of the downturn. The project was one of a number of manufacturing capacity additions that were delayed or postponed due to economic conditions. Analysts believe several of these projects will be moving forward this year, now that market conditions have improved.

Intel and Micron have not given a recent update for the ramp up of the Singapore fab. Spokespersons from both companies declined to comment on the hiring in Singapore or the ramp up schedule for the fab, citing quiet periods prior to the reporting of quarterly financials.

In January, Daniel Amir, an analyst with Lazard Capital Markets, said in a report that the companies were moving ahead with the delayed fab in Singapore and ordering production equipment. Last month, analysts said Intel and Micron have ordered several tools for the fab, including three lithography scanners from ASML Holding NV. The companies declined to comment.

- Dylan McGrath
EE Times