Photolithography Process Development Engineer

Title:

Photolithography Process Development Engineer

FLSA Status:
Exempt

Reports To:

Director, Photolithography Development

Summary:

Under the direction of the department Director, the Photolithography Process Development Engineer is responsible for developing and implementing new photolithography processes for next-generation magnetic recording heads, ensuring product manufacturability. The role includes designing and conducting experiments, analyzing data, presenting findings, and researching, selecting, and qualifying new tools that improve efficiency and yield. This position is located in Milpitas, California.

• Develop and implement new photolithography processes for next-generation magnetic recording heads
• Implement new process control schemes or methodologies that ensure product manufacturability
• Design and conduct experiments, analyze data, and develop recommendations for improving performance and yield while reducing scrap
• Adhere to appropriate timelines for introducing new processes into the manufacturing line
• Partner with other groups and departments, including process and product engineering, to develop and deliver products and programs
• Oversee the work of the Process Technicians to ensure accurate process execution and efficient wafer disposition
• Adhere to all safety policies and procedures as required
• Perform other duties of a similar nature or level

• Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent relevant experience;
  PhD preferred
• One to three years of experience working in the magnetic recording head, hard disk drive, or semiconductor industry in Process Development
• Experience working in a wafer fab manufacturing environment
• Experience with Statistical Process Control (SPC)
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Applications

• Knowledge of semiconductor or HDD industry principles, practices, and techniques
• Knowledge of wafer fabrication processing techniques, including process development and integration practices
• Knowledge of TMR and PMR processes and applications
• Knowledge of wafer manufacturing principles, processes, and equipment
• Knowledge and ability to use Microsoft Office applications to create spreadsheets, Word documents, and presentations
• Knowledge and ability to use Statistical Process Control (SPC) to analyze data, create reports, present findings, and recommend appropriate action
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with all levels of contractors, consultants, employees, and management
• Ability to work productively and collaboratively with all levels of employees and management
• Ability to comply with all safety policies and procedures
• Demonstrated organizational and time management skills
• Demonstrated problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
• Flexible and able to prioritize

The Photolithography Process/Manufacturing Engineer works primarily in an office environment from Monday through Friday. The schedule may be altered from time-to-time to meet business or operational needs and may involve site-to-site travel as needed. The engineer may also work in a Class 100 ESD-sensitive wafer fab manufacturing facility, adhering to required safety and dress standards. Potential exposure to hazardous chemicals, fumes, vapors, and excessive noise may occur in the wafer manufacturing facility.

The role requires standing, walking, fine grasping movements, bending, and twisting; operating a computer and entering information using a keyboard, operating a telephone, and other office equipment. Occasionally, the engineer may be required to push, pull, or lift up to ten pounds.

• Other duties of a similar nature or level may be required but are not specifically listed in the job description or posting.

TDK/Headway Technologies, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. Applicants requiring accommodation to complete the application process should contact the Headway Human Resources Department.