A semiconductor thermoelectric cooler is configured to direct heat through channels of the cooler. The thermoelectric cooler has multiple electrodes and a first dielectric material positioned between side surfaces of the electrodes. A second dielectric material, different from the first dielectric material, is in contact with top surfaces of the electrodes. The first dielectric material extends above the top surface of the electrodes, separating portions of the second dielectric material, and is in contact with a portion of the top surfaces of the electrodes. The first dielectric material has a thermal conductivity different than a thermal conductivity of the second dielectric material. A ratio of the first dielectric material to the second dielectric material in contact with the top surface of the electrodes may be selected to control the heat retention. The semiconductor thermoelectric cooler may be manufactured using thin film technology.