LAB Hardware Engineer - Process Tools

imec; Heverlee; On-site; EUR 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Imec, Leuven, is seeking a Lab Hardware Engineer for the LAB Hardware team to maintain and advance laboratory hardware used in cutting-edge nanoelectronics research.

You will manage tool lifecycles, collaborate with researchers and process/hardware engineers, document inventory, support new prototype tools, and contribute to process development, with a day shift.

Qualifications

• Degree in Engineering or 5+ years in the electronics/semiconductor field.
• Ability to work unsupervised in a lab environment and maintain a structured approach.
• Strong problem solving with proactive initiative and timely responsiveness.
• Fluent English with clear written and spoken communication.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain lab tools and equipment for nanoscale research.
• Bridge hardware capabilities with process requirements in collaboration with researchers and engineers.
• Document tool information, status, and inventory; manage consumables and spares.
• Support development of prototype tools and plan for replacing existing equipment.
• Assist process team in developing specific process steps.
• Work on a day-shift schedule.

Skills

Hands-on hardware

Problem solving

Autonomy

English fluency

Organization

Communication

MS Office

Education

Engineering degree or 5+ years in semiconductors

Tools

MS Office

Job description

LAB Hardware Engineer - Process Tools

Imec is the world-leading research and innovation hub in nanoelectronics and digital technologies. The combination of our widely acclaimed leadership in microchip technology and profound software and ICT expertise is what makes us unique. To strengthen this position, we are looking for a Hardware Engineer to join our LAB Hardware team (LABHW) in Leuven.

The LABHW team is part of imec's Lab Operations & Coordination Department and plays a key role in maintaining and supporting the hardware infrastructure used in our advanced research labs. The team delivers technical support to the R&D organization by ensuring the reliable and efficient operation of lab equipment. We contribute directly to the success of many research programs at imec.

What you will do

With your hardware and process colleagues, you ensure that tools are running smoothly and efficiently. You support imec's research programs as a link between hardware capabilities and process requirements. You work in a dynamic, multidisciplinary, and multicultural environment in close collaboration with researchers, students, process and hardware engineers, industry assignees, and device and process experts.

• As a Hardware Engineer, you take on a key role in developing next-generation semiconductor technologies. You work closely with application and R&D teams to deliver state-of-the-art solutions that support imec's research programs.
• During an intensive training period, you will be coached by our team. They will introduce you to the Lab activities and provide the knowledge and hands-on experience you need to succeed in your role.
• You are responsible for all phases of the equipment lifecycle, including purchasing new equipment, hook-up, maintenance, user support, quality control, and decommissioning. The tools you will work on include dry and wet etching, photolithography, characterization (ellipsometry, microscopy, profilometry), thin-film deposition, sputtering, and evaporation.
• You document tool information and status and keep inventory information for consumables and spare parts up to date.
• You contribute to the development of new prototype tools, prepare plans for replacing existing equipment, and follow up on new tool installations.
• Part of your activities will involve supporting the process team in the development of specific process steps.
• You will work in a day-shift schedule.

What we do for you

We offer you the opportunity to join one of the world's premier research centers in nanotechnology at its headquarters in Leuven, Belgium. With your talent, passion and expertise, you'll become part of a team that makes the impossible possible. Together, we shape the technology that will determine the society of tomorrow.

We are committed to being an inclusive employer and proud of our open, multicultural, and informal working environment with ample possibilities to take initiative and show responsibility. We commit to supporting and guiding you in this process; not only with words but also with tangible actions. Through imec.academy, 'our corporate university', we actively invest in your development to further your technical and personal growth.

We are aware that your valuable contribution makes imec a top player in its field. Your energy and commitment are therefore appreciated by means of a market appropriate salary with many fringe benefits.

Who you are

• You hold a degree in Engineering (Mechanical or Electrical/Electronics Engineering) or have at least 5 years of experience in the electronics or semiconductor industry.
• You can work without supervisionin a lab environment and combine strong hands-on skills with a structured way of working, attention to detail, and high quality standards.
• You are a problem solver who focuses on solutions rather than obstacles. Thanks to your sense of urgency, you act proactively and are comfortable taking initiative when needed.
• As timing is critical in our business, we are looking for someone with strong problem-solving and organizational skills who can evaluate and respond effectively to requests and issues in a timely manner. You enjoy a high degree of autonomy, are motivated by continuous learning and development, and can quickly acquire new knowledge and skills.
• You are a strong communicator who listens actively, builds constructive relationships, and takes a customer-focused approach. You communicate clearly and effectively.
• You are a collaborative team player who shares technical expertise, supports colleagues when needed, and contributes to common goals.
• You are comfortable using the MS Office suite and working with data.
• Given the international character of imec, fluency in English is required.

IMEC and its affiliates will not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate. IMEC will consider unsolicited referrals and/or resumes submitted by vendors such as search firms, staffing agencies, professional recruiters, fee-based referral services and recruiting agencies (hereafter "Agency") to have been referred by the Agency free of charge. IMEC will not pay a fee to any Agency that does not have a prior written agreement with IMEC, validated by its HR department, in place regarding a specific job opening and allowing to submit resumes.