Companies want people who are excited to work in the high-tech sector. They really wanted to work in the high-tech sector and can explain why. They don't need to know all the technology. Semiconductor companies look for people who can deal with ambiguity. Things change quickly in this industry, and you need to be able to change and learn with it.
Leadership qualities are at a premium.
There are a lot of management positions, and those who can drive and lead teams will be valuable employees. More so than other industries, this one's a meritocracy. If you show you can do the work, you can find an opportunity to do it. Next Semiconductor Equipment and Materials International includes a very long list of semiconductor companies worldwide and much other industry information. Its section on market statistics gives a numerical snapshot of the industry's health.