Process Engineer 2 Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The candidate will be an individual with demonstrated expertise, preferably in two or more of the following areas:

• AFM-based metrology techniques, including topographical and force-based measurements

• Infrared (IR) spectroscopy and nanoscale IR characterization

• Inorganic materials characterization, including oxides, nitrides, and metal systems

• Photolithography-related characterization, including EUV patterning, line-edge effects, and interface analysis

• Design of Experiments (DOE) and data-driven evaluation methodologies

The candidate will have several years of experience working with advanced metrology tools and applied characterization techniques in a semiconductor manufacturing or development environment. The role will focus on integrating AFM and IR-based methods to solve high-value problems.He/she will work closely with internal Business Units (BUs) to clearly understand technical challenges, translate problems into structured evaluation plans, and assess the suitability and limitations of AFM- and IR-based characterization approaches. The role requires independent experimental execution, strong analytical judgment, and the ability to communicate results effectively to diverse technical stakeholders.

This position requires hands-on operation in a cleanroom environment, including extended time spent on tool operation, sample preparation, data collection, and troubleshooting.

Qualifications

• MS or PhD in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field

• 3+ years (MS)of relevant work experience in semiconductor metrology, materials characterization, or process development

• Strong working knowledge of IR peak identification and interpretation

• Experience designing and executing DOE-based experimental plans

• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex datasets and translate findings into actionable conclusions

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Willingness to work hands-on in a cleanroom environment for multiple hours per day

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with internal Business Units (BUs) to understandchallenges

• Design and execute AFM- and IR-based characterization experiments, including DOE definition

• Perform hands-on measurements, including tool setup, optimization, and troubleshooting

• Analyze and interpret nanoscale IR and AFM data with a strong focus on root-cause identification

• Develop and maintain IR peak reference libraries, correlating experimental spectra with known databases for accurate material identification

• Prepare technical reports and presentations summarizing results, limitations, and recommendations

• Contribute to technical review discussions with BU partners and cross-functional teams

• Engage with external vendors as needed to understand tool capabilities, limitations, and future enhancements

Functional Knowledge

• Regarded as a technical expert in AFM- and IR-based materials characterization

• Demonstrates deep expertise in own discipline and practical working knowledge of adjacent metrology techniques

• Understands semiconductor manufacturing constraints and integration challenges

Business Expertise

• Anticipates BU needs and proactively aligns technical work with business priorities

• Clearly communicates capabilities, limitations, and tradeoffs of characterization approaches

• Supports data-driven decisions on technology readiness and applicability

Leadership

• Leads technical projects with limited supervision

• Demonstrates bias for action and high execution velocity

• Influences technical direction through expertise rather than authority

Problem Solving

• Solves unique and complex problems requiring conceptual and analytical thinking

• Demonstrates persistence and motivation to identify root cause and close issues

Impact

• Influences internal metrology strategies and application decisions

• Impacts product development timelines and process robustness

Interpersonal Skills

• Communicates complex concepts clearly and effectively

• Builds strong working relationships across Business Units

• Persuades through data, structured reasoning, and technical credibility