Senior Process Development Engineer (Back End)

PragmatIC Semiconductor; North East; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Pragmatic Semiconductor in Durham seeks a Senior Process Development Engineer to lead backend assembly process development and qualification for high-volume manufacturing. You will drive NPI readiness and transfer processes from development to production.

The role requires strong expertise in Back End processing, laser handling, DOE, SPC, and data analysis, with mentoring responsibilities and the ability to work to tight deadlines across multiple projects.

Qualifications

• Educated to degree level in Engineering or Materials Science; Six Sigma beneficial.
• Experience with Back End processing, laser processing, die singulation, and advanced packaging technologies.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and qualification of backend manufacturing processes, including laser processing and wafer debonding.
• Design and execute experiments (DOE) to establish process windows and optimise performance.
• Develop process specifications, control plans, and qualification methodologies for handover to sustaining/processing teams.
• Evaluate new materials, equipment, and technologies to improve manufacturing capabilities.
• Drive process characterisation and validation activities for new product introductions (NPI).
• Lead teams on complex issues requiring evaluation of multiple variables; provide mentoring and training.

Skills

Back End Processing

Laser Processing

Problem Solving

Mentoring

DOE

SPC

Data Analysis

Multi-Project Management

Education

Engineering or Materials Science degree

Tools

JMP

Minitab

Excel

Job description

Overview

We have an excellent opportunity in our Technology function for a Senior Process Development Engineer to join our growing Back End/Assembly team. Based in Durham and reporting to the Principal Process Development Engineer, this is a key role which will provide technical leadership and accelerate New Product Introductions as we grow our product porfolio.

This is a key technical leadership role responsible for developing, qualifying, and transferring advanced semiconductor assembly processes into high-volume manufacturing. You will provide critical expertise in Back End processing technologies, supporting the development of innovative manufacturing solutions while ensuring operational excellence across existing production lines.

We are looking for candidates with deep knowledge and expertise of Back End processes (particularly laser processing) and the drive to make a key impact on the business through enabling new product introductions, supporting customer-driven product transfers, and driving manufacturing readiness for future technologies.

Visa sponsorship and relocation assistance will be available for the successful candidate, if required.

Key tasks

• Lead the development and qualification of backend manufacturing processes, as well as continuous improvement on current processing in die singulation, laser processing and wafer on frame debonding and advanced packaging technologies
• Design and execute experiments (DOE) to establish process windows and optimise process performance
• Develop process specifications, control plans, and qualification methodologies and handover to sustaining / process engineers
• Evaluate new materials, equipment, and technologies to improve manufacturing capabilities
• Drive process characterisation and validation activities for new product introduction (NPI)
• Lead teams in working on complex issues where analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth evaluation of variable factors
• Lead by example: empower others by providing mentoring and training
• Report results in a clear and concise manner to the leadership team and ensure technical reports are produced with a level of clarity and content for peer review.

Qualifications and training

You will ideally be educated to degree level in a field such as Engineering or Materials Science (or will possess equivalent industry experience). Six Sigma qualifications would be beneficial.

Skills and experience

• Experience of Back End processing, in particular laser processes and mechanical dicing
• Demonstratable skills in problem solving of complex issues
• A strong understanding of electronics and its core principles
• Experience in providing leadership and mentoring
• Experience with Design of Experiments (DOE), Statistical Process Control (SPC), and process capability analysis
• Strong data analysis capabilities using JMP, Minitab, Excel, or similar statistical tools
• A strong ability to solve technical problems with many different variables.
• A strong ability to work to tight deadlines and progress multiple projects simultaneously.

Candidates who do not meet every requirement but feel their skills are a good fit for the role the role are encouraged to apply.

Pragmatic Semiconductor is committed to equity, equality, diversity, and inclusion; we strive to welcome everyone and create inclusive teams. We celebrate difference and encourage everyone to be themselves at work. Please let us know if you would like any adjustments to our application and interview process.