Dry/Plasma Etch GaN Process Development Engineer (SM1)

Job description

Change the world. Love your job. We are seeking a highly motivated Advanced GaN Process Development Engineer to join our Plasma Etch Process Development team. This role is responsible for developing, optimizing, and transferring advanced plasma etch processes supporting next-generation GaN semiconductor technologies. The engineer will work closely with integration, equipment, metrology, and manufacturing teams to drive technology innovation, improve process capability, and enable successful product ramp into high-volume manufacturing.

The ideal candidate possesses strong technical expertise in plasma etch fundamentals, semiconductor process development, statistical data analysis, and cross-functional problem solving. The responsibilities of a Manufacturing Development Process Engineer in this role include: Process Development Develop and optimize plasma etch processes for advanced semiconductor devices. Design and execute experiments (DOE) to improve critical process metrics, including: Etch rate Selectivity Critical dimension (CD) control Profile control Defectivity Uniformity Characterize process performance and establish process windows for manufacturing robustness.

Evaluate new process chemistries, hardware configurations, and chamber technologies. Technology Introduction Support development and qualification of next-generation etch technologies. Collaborate with device integration teams to meet product and technology requirements. Drive process readiness for technology transfers from development into manufacturing. Establish process specifications, control plans, and release documentation.

Tool and Equipment Engineering Partner with equipment engineering teams to improve tool capability, productivity, and reliability. Lead chamber matching, equipment qualification, and process performance improvement activities. Support installation and startup of new etch platforms. Data Analysis & Continuous Improvement Analyze complex process datasets using statistical methods and data analytics tools. Identify root causes of process excursions and implement corrective actions.

Lead yield improvement and defect reduction initiatives. Utilize SPC methodologies to monitor and improve process stability.

Cross-Functional Collaboration Work closely with: Process Integration Manufacturing Yield Engineering Metrology Equipment Engineering Quality and Reliability teams Present technical findings and recommendations to management and key stakeholders. Mentor junior engineers and technicians as needed.

Qualifications

Minimum requirements

5+ years of semiconductor plasma/dry etch process development experience. Bachelors in an engineering, science, or related STEM discipline Strong foundation in statistical process control, engineering change control and process release strategies Experience with DOE methodologies and statistical analysis. Familiarity with metrology techniques including SEM, CD-SEM, ellipsometry and defect inspection tools.

Preferred qualifications

Experience in Gallium Nitride (GaN) and/or similar wide-bandgap III-V nitrides processes and technology development

• Strong foundation in statistical process control, engineering change control and process release strategies
• Proficiency with Python, Claude, or other AI models or tools is a plus
• Demonstrated strong analytical and problem solving skills resulting in innovative and creative process solutions Experience with process development and transfer on etch platforms (LAM, AMAT, TEL, etc)
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work in teams and collaborate effectively with people in different job functions
• Strong time management skills that enable on-time project delivery
• Demonstrated ability to build strong, influential relationships
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and rapidly changing environment
• Ability to take the initiative and drive for result