Samsung Electronics Co.’s semiconductor division is facing a talent drain as engineers seek opportunities with competitors and research institutes, adding pressure to its struggling memory chip business.
In a recent SK Hynix Inc. recruitment drive for three etching engineer positions, approximately 200 Samsung employees submitted applications, according to people familiar with the matter. The unusually high number of applicants represents a majority of Samsung’s qualified engineers in this specialized field.
The exodus extends beyond senior roles. SK Hynix’s Junior Talent program, recently expanded to include professionals with up to five years of experience, has seen a surge in applications from Samsung staff. The Korea Electronics Technology Institute also attracted about 50 doctoral-level engineers from Samsung’s chip unit for three researcher positions.
Samsung’s waning compensation advantage may be fueling the departures. While the company historically offered industry-leading base salaries, its edge has diminished, with only bonus payments keeping total compensation slightly above competitors, according to a former employee who asked not to be identified.
The talent challenge prompted discussion at a recent town hall, where memory business chief Lee Jung-bae urged employees to remain with the company. The personnel shifts come as Samsung grapples with weaker-than-forecast third-quarter results in its semiconductor division.
