Edwards, the leading supplier of vacuum and abatement services and solutions to the global semiconductor industry, announced that it is establishing a new Service Technology Centre (STC) in Blanchardstown, Dublin to support the semiconductor manufacturing industry in Ireland.

The new centre and associated field service operations are expected to employ up to 120 people across activities such as technology, engineering and support.  The development represents an investment in the region of US$7.5 million.

Semiconductor manufacturing is essential to supporting developments in the technology, electronics, transport, scientific and healthcare sectors – all of which have been classed as critical industries during the recent Covid-19 pandemic. Edwards is the world leader in supplying the vacuum and abatement technology, along with the equipment and services, necessary to support the efficient and environmentally sustainable production of semiconductors.

Edwards’ new 4,000m² STC will utilise advanced automation and data solutions to disassemble, clean, inspect, repair, replace and reassemble vacuum pumps and abatement equipment. The STC is ultimately a remanufacturing operation designed to recycle used products and deliver them back to customers to full specification – all with minimum impact to the environment. Water consumption is minimised through environmentally efficient wastewater treatment and LED lighting will be used to minimise the factory’s carbon footprint.

The facility will include warehousing facilities, factory areas, meeting rooms, and a dedicated training centre to cater to the practical and theoretical training needs of both Edwards employees and those of Edwards’ customers.

Edwards is supported by IDA Ireland through the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.

The Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar TD said: “I’m pleased Edwards have chosen Blanchardstown for their new flagship facility, creating 120 new jobs for the area. Blanchardstown has the talent and connectivity to make it an excellent location for any company to invest in and I wish Edwards the very best as they grow their operations here.”

Troy Metcalf, President, Edwards Semiconductor Service, commented: “This is an exciting development for Edwards and for our customers. Our new Dublin site will become a flagship facility in our global network of STCs, utilising advanced automation and data analysis to support the safe, productive and environmentally sustainable manufacturing of semiconductors in Ireland and across Europe. The increased utilisation of automation and lean manufacturing processes will contribute to improved safety standards, support greater operational excellence, and promote our strategy to attract a more diverse workforce into Edwards and the wider engineering and semiconductor sectors.

“On behalf of Edwards, I would like to extend our thanks to IDA Ireland for the valuable support they have provided us in this exciting new venture.”

Commenting on the announcement Martin Shanahan, CEO, IDA Ireland said: “This is a significant commitment by Edwards in Ireland.  The investment of US$7.5 million and creation of 120 jobs by a global leader in this highly specialised area demonstrates a huge vote of confidence in Ireland.  Our strong value proposition and our agile and adaptable business environment remains intact despite the unprecedented challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic and continues to resonate with overseas companies.”

Edwards will soon begin recruiting for the new Dublin facility. For more information about the company and emerging roles, visit https://www.collinsmcnicholas.ie/edwards-vacuum/