Process Engineer

Process EngineerSubstrate is addressing one of the most important technological problems facing the United States. At the intersection of advanced manufacturing and cutting-edge physics, we are developing technologies that will reshape the semiconductor industry and strengthen America's technological leadership. We are a team of world-class scientists, engineers, and technical experts building technology for the United States.SummaryYou will be responsible for prototyping critical components of our platform through process development and materials characterization. This role will require you to work hands-on in several cleanrooms and user facilities around the San Francisco Bay Area, conducting a mix of micro- and nanofabrication as well as characterization of the materials and structures that you create. This hands-on work will include (but will not be limited to) many nanofabrication techniques including lithography, wet and dry deposition and etching.You will also participate in the build-up of Substrate's own internal research facilities. You will be a key contributor to early-stage development and testing which are critical to our challenging mission to shape the semiconductor industry for decades to come.ResponsibilitiesCollaborating closely with Substrate's technical team to conceptualize, design, prototype, and characterize nanofabricated optical devicesHands-on fabrication of MEMS/NEMS devices using techniques such as photo- and electron beam lithography, thin film deposition, and wet and dry etching. This work will be done in several user facilities (primarily around the San Francisco Bay Area, but with the possibility of travel beyond the Bay Area)Iterating through structural designs and tuning lithography, deposition, and etch parameters to optimize processes and improve performanceMechanical, optical, and chemical characterization of thin films using techniques such as profilometry, ellipsometry, and XPSCharacterization of pattern fidelity and resolution using techniques such as SEM and AFMConceptual contributions to fabrication strategies such as design of process flows, material compatibility studies, and mask layout CADConceptual contributions to bulk material, nanopatterned structures, and thin film characterization strategies to better study the mechanical, chemical, and optical properties that drive device performanceDesigning, coordinating, and conducting experiments in various user facilitiesContribution to the build-up and installation of Substrate's own internal research facilities.Recording, processing and interpreting data and results to the wider teamRequired Qualifications3+ years of hands-on micro- or nanofabrication experience in cleanroom user facilitiesDemonstrated ability to work safely and collaboratively in a cleanroom user facilityWillingness and ability to work in several user facilities around the San Francisco Bay Area several days per weekDemonstrated experience handling delicate samples and operating complex fabrication and characterization equipmentFundamental understanding of micro- and nanofabrication considerations such as top-down vs. bottom-up, pattern transfer, material compatibilities, etch selectivity and directionality, and thin film and surface engineeringUnderstanding of the mechanical, optical, and chemical properties of materials which typically determine the performance of nanofabricated devicesStrong written and oral communication skills. High attention to detail and organizational skillsAbility to solve complex design challenges both independently and as part of a teamAbility to collaborate with a large and multidisciplinary technical groupB.S. or higher degree in chemical engineering, electrical engineering, materials science, mechanical engineering, physics, or a related discipline in the physical or engineering sciencesPreferred Qualifications3+ years of hands-on experience in characterization techniques such as electron microscopy and scanning probe microscopyExperience operating a Raith EBPG 5200/5200+, including aligned exposures1+ years of hands-on experience in inductively coupled plasma etching, with a strong understanding of the principles of plasma etching and recipe parametersExperience in industrial R&DExperience with instrument scoping, procurement, installation, and commissioningExperience with safety procedures and best practices when working with potentially hazardous liquid chemicalsSalary Range$150,000-$250,000 USDSubstrate is an equal opportunity employer. It provides equal employment opportunity to all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, disability, medical condition, marital status, sex, gender, age, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.Substrate will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need an accommodation during the hiring process, please let your recruiter know.Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Created: 2026-04-02