R&D Process Engineer (Etch)

Applied Materials; Singapore; On-site; SGD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A global leader in materials engineering is seeking a Process Engineer in Singapore to design and optimize manufacturing processes within the semiconductor industry. The role involves analyzing data, troubleshooting engineering issues, and collaborating with R&D teams. Candidates should have a Ph.D. in a relevant field with strong knowledge of semiconductor processes and materials science, contributing to innovative projects that push technology boundaries.

Benefits

Supportive work culture

Career development opportunities

Health and wellness programs

Qualifications

• Strong emphasis on plasma chemistry and ALE.
• Experience with semiconductor device fabrication required.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize manufacturing processes for display and semiconductor manufacturing.
• Conduct R&D for plasma and thermal etch.
• Collaborate with suppliers and enhance manufacturing processes.

Skills

Understanding of organic and metal-organic precursors

Hands-on experience in Atomic Layer Etch (ALE) processes

Solid knowledge of plasma etching principles

Ability to correlate etch process parameters

Education

Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or Engineering

Job description

Who We Are

Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips – the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that literally connect our world – like AI and IoT. If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next‑generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world.

What We Offer

Location:

Singapore,SGP

You’ll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible—while learning every day in a supportive leading global company. Visit our Careers website to learn more.

At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We’re committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go. Learn more about our benefits (https://hrportal.ehr.com/applied/).

Job Overview

As a Process Engineer, you'll play a crucial role in designing and optimizing manufacturing processes for display and semiconductor manufacturing technologies. You will collect and analyze data, perform hardware characterization, and troubleshoot engineering issues. You'll also measure film properties, generate technical documentation, and engage with customers to resolve concerns. Process Engineers collaborate with vendors and suppliers, and become familiar with implementing new technologies and products. You will experiment, learn, and collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the semiconductor and display industries, partnering with our globally recognized R&D teams on state‑of‑the‑art research and development projects.

Key Responsibilities

• In-depth understanding of organic and metal‑organic precursors, selective etching strategies (including plasma, thermal, and atomic layer etching), and associated intellectual property for advanced semiconductor applications.
• Design and optimize thin‑film etch processes using novel and commercial precursors for highly selective removal of dielectrics, metals, and complex material stacks in advanced semiconductor device fabrication.
• Conduct concept and feasibility R&D for plasma and thermal etch, including chemical formulations, process flows, and parameter optimization, ensuring minimal impact on device performance.
• Prepare and execute project plans for semiconductor film etch development, meeting milestones and deliverables on time and within budget.
• Collaborate with business units and clients to optimize and scale etching processes for high‑volume manufacturing.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges using structured root cause analysis, engaging cross‑functional teams to implement solutions.
• Prioritize activities to achieve performance objectives aligned with project timelines and cost targets.

Functional Knowledge

• Strong understanding and hands‑on experience in Conventional and Atomic Layer Etch (ALE) processes, plasma etching principles, and semiconductor device fabrication.
• Expertise in Si and Metal precursor‑based ALE techniques, thin‑film etch, and characterization for Memory and Logic devices.
• Solid knowledge of chemistry and chemical reactions in plasma/thermal environments and at material interfaces.
• Ability to correlate etch process parameters with device performance and reliability.

Business Expertise

• Knowledge of industry best practices and competitive differentiation in etch technology.
• Understands key business drivers and applies this knowledge to achieve technical and commercial objectives.

Education

Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or Engineering (with strong emphasis on plasma chemistry and ALE)

Work Location

Applied Materials - NUS Corporate Lab (NUS E6)

Additional Information

Time Type: Full time

Employee Type: Assignee / Regular

Travel: No

Relocation Eligible: No

Equal Opportunity Statement

Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.