Photomask Design Architect

Job Description

We are seeking a Photomask Design Architect to join our innovative Mask Design team in San Jose, CA. In this critical role, you will be responsible for designing and optimizing photomasks for Wafer Development and Manufacturing based on electrical/ optical/ magnetic design specifications and process requirements, including post-wafer processing.

• Design photomasks for magnetic HDD head wafers to enable technology leadership and on-time new product launch
• Engage with wafer process integration & photo-lithography teams to define mask sequences (wafer alignment tree) and metrology requirements for new processes, new designs, and assure the electrical integrity of the head build
• Define new wafer formats and wafer technology platforms. Interlock with wafer, slider, HGA, and staging teams to define electrical configuration, pad orientation/ assignments
• Work with post-wafer teams to design ELG's, alignment marks for new product requirements to enable strategic roadmaps
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize mask designs for manufacturability, high yields, and process robustness; engage in F/A activities
• Maintain design rule decks for various wafer formats, head design, test structure and other wafer features
• Interface with mask vendors to assure mask quality and delivery time reduction; enable multiple suppliers when possible
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior team members
• Contribute to the development of new photomask design methodologies, best practices and automation

• Master's degree in Physics/ Chemistry/ Engineering.
• 10+ years of experience in wafer process integration, photolithography and/or mask design
• Experience with HDD head wafer products is needed
• Prior work history within WD is preferred
• Strong analytical skills for interpreting electrical, optical, and magnetic design requirements, data analysis
• Exceptional attention to detail and precision in design work
• Excellent project management and problem-solving abilities in a complex technical and fast-paced environment
• Effective communication and collaboration skills; team player

Western Digital is committed to providing equal opportunities to all applicants and employees and will not discriminate based on their race, color, ancestry, religion (including religious dress and grooming standards), sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, breastfeeding or related medical conditions), gender (including a person’s gender identity, gender expression, and gender-related appearance and behavior, whether or not stereotypically associated with the person’s assigned sex at birth), age, national origin, sexual orientation, medical condition, marital status (including domestic partnership status), physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, protected medical and family care leave, Civil Air Patrol status, military and veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.

We also prohibit harassment of any individual on any of the characteristics listed above. Our non-discrimination policy applies to all aspects of employment. We comply with the laws and regulations set forth in Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law poster.

Western Digital thrives on the power and potential of diversity. As a global company, we believe the most effective way to embrace the diversity of our customers and communities is to mirror it from within. We believe the fusion of various perspectives results in the best outcomes for our employees, our company, our customers, and the world around us. We are committed to an inclusive environment where every individual can thrive through a sense of belonging, respect and contribution.

Western Digital is committed to offering opportunities to applicants with disabilities and ensuring all candidates can successfully navigate our careers website and our hiring process. Please contact us at  to advise us of your accommodation request. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.