Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for handling a reticle during manufacturing processes of semiconductor devices in the fabrication line. The apparatus includes a holder for the reticle, the holder is configured to securely hold the reticle and a level indicator attached to and operative with the holder to indicate leveling condition of the holder. The apparatus further includes a shaft connected to the holder for holding and a switch connected to the shaft. The method includes providing a reticle and clamping the reticle with a reticle holder including a switch and a leveling indicator operative with the holder to indicate leveling condition of the holder. The method further includes loading the reticle into a reticle pod while maintaining the leveling condition of the holder.