Principal Process Development Engineer

Plessey Semiconductors Ltd; Remote; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading semiconductor company in the UK seeks a Principal Process Development Engineer. The ideal candidate will drive the development of fabrication processes for Micro-LED and Optical Computing technologies. Applicants should possess a Ph.D. and extensive experience in semiconductor process development. Key responsibilities include leading R&D initiatives, optimising processes, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. Remote work is available for the right candidate. This role offers an exciting opportunity at the forefront of innovation.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in relevant field covering III-V semiconductor devices.
• 3+ years in process development within semiconductor or related industries.
• Expert knowledge in Micro-LED or Optical Compute technologies.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and optimisation of fabrication processes.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on design decisions.
• Identify new tooling requirements for process development.

Skills

Process development

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Hands-on experience with fabrication techniques

R&D initiatives

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical/Electronics Engineering, Materials Science

Tools

JMP

Python

CAM systems

Job description

Principal Process Development Engineer – Plessey

Location: Plymouth (state‑of‑the‑art fabrication facility in the UK). Remote work is available for the right candidate.

Overview

We are looking for a Principal Process Development Engineer with deep expertise in process development, strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, hands‑on experience with advanced fabrication and characterization techniques, and a proven ability to lead cross‑functional R&D initiatives. Join a fast‑growing Process Development team pushing the boundaries of innovation in Micro‑LED and Optical Computing.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and optimisation of fabrication processes for Micro‑LED and Optical Computing devices.
• Work through all stages of process development, from defining process architecture to developing process modules.
• Identify the requirements for new tooling to support the Micro‑LED and Optical Compute development roadmap, including defining process recipe specifications and aligning with the process tool owner.
• Leverage your R&D and process development experience to drive progress within a high‑performing, results‑oriented team.
• Participate in risk assessments and design reviews.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to design decisions, analyses and present insights to management.
• Constantly seek out and implement opportunities for innovation and improvement in products and processes.

Qualifications & Experience

• Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical/Electronics Engineering, Materials Science, or a related subject covering III‑V semiconductor devices.
• 3+ years of extensive experience in process development within semiconductor, display, or related high‑tech industries.
• Expert knowledge of Micro‑LED or Photonics and/or Optical Compute technologies.
• Hands‑on experience developing and optimising III‑V (ideally III‑N) semiconductor device fabrication processes in a clean‑room environment.
• Knowledge of semiconductor device physics.
• Broad experience in semiconductor process techniques, including lithography (stepper and mask aligner), etch (RIE, ICP, wet etch), CVD, PVD, evaporation, ALD, IBD.
• Design of Experiments and statistical analysis techniques.
• Expertise in LED performance metrics and measurement techniques such as IV response, electroluminescence, EQE.
• Working knowledge of CAM systems and SPC.
• Ability to communicate clearly and make design decisions to cross‑functional teams.
• Experience of risk analysis and design review processes.
• Track record of innovation, process optimisation, and scaling new technologies.
• Experience with JMP or Python for data analysis.
• Experience with mask design.