Process Engineer – Photolithography

Process Engineer – Photolithography

Job Specification:

Role overview:
Responsible for developing, integrating, and qualifying e-beam lithography production capability for GaAs and GaN technologies. Works closely with device, yield, development, and production teams to ensure high-quality, on-time delivery of processes and parts while maintaining efficiency, yield, and cost objectives.

Key responsibilities:

• Actively participate in yield improvement activities with device, yield, and development engineers.

• Support manufacturing line to resolve process-related issues quickly, minimising downtime.

• Monitor manufacturing data using SPC to identify excursions and implement countermeasures.

• Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency, yield, and reduce operating costs.

• Contribute to departmental projects, resource planning, and progress monitoring.

• Promote a positive safety and environmental culture.

• Oversee introduction and qualification of new photolithography equipment and processes.

• Lead technology and product development projects.

• Work with production staff, engineers, and technicians to support wafer fab manufacturing.

• Minimize scrap, reduce cycle time, improve OEE, and ensure quality manufacturing.

• Participate in transfer of processes from development to production.

• Encourage cost reduction and lean manufacturing principles (8D, DOE, FMEA).

• Establish process metrics and performance-enhancing projects.

Required skills & experience:

• High-volume semiconductor manufacturing experience

• Process development and NPI experience

• Hands-on automated clean tracks and stepper/scanner exposure tools

• Knowledge of e-beam lithography equipment and processes

• Experience with lithography tool matching (optical/e-beam)

• Cleanroom production experience

• Knowledge of ISO 9001, 14001, 18001 standards

• Knowledge of III-V materials and device technologies

• Mask layout using CAD systems (L-Edit)

• DOE and FMEA experience

• Change control understanding

• Proficient in data analysis software (Minitab, JMP)

Desirable experience:

• Photolithography process optimisation

• Exposure to cross-functional semiconductor engineering teams

• Yield improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives

Tools & methods:

• SPC, DOE, FMEA

• Lithography CAD tools (L-Edit)

• E-beam and optical exposure equipment

• Data analysis software (Minitab, JMP)

• Change control and quality management systems

What success looks like:

• High-quality, repeatable photolithography processes

• Continuous yield improvement and cost reduction

• Successful transfer of processes from development to production

• Effective collaboration across teams

• Safe, compliant, and efficient cleanroom operations

Location: Newcastle upon Tyne

Salary: £50,000 – £60,000 + benefits

Please contact us for further details.