Head of Department, Advance Process Modules (Director), IME

A*STAR - Agency for Science, Technology and Research; Singapore; On-site; SGD 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A*STAR - Agency for Science, Technology and Research is looking for a Head of Department for Advanced Process Modules in Singapore. You will lead a central team of over 100 scientists and engineers to drive innovation in semiconductor manufacturing processes for next-generation applications. The ideal candidate has a PhD and over 15 years of experience in the semiconductor industry, including strong leadership, innovative strategies, and cross-functional collaboration. This role offers an opportunity to shape the future of semiconductor technology at A*STAR.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in semiconductor process development, including 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Broad knowledge of multiple process technologies including optical lithography, etch, and diffusion.
• Familiar with state-of-the-art semiconductor equipment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of advanced unit processes for various semiconductor technologies.
• Define the medium-to-long-term roadmap for unit module development.
• Build and mentor a high-performing multidisciplinary engineering team.

Skills

Leadership and team management

Semiconductor process development

Collaboration and communication

Strategic thinking

Technical excellence

Education

PhD in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or related field

Job description

We are seeking a visionary and results‑oriented Head of Department for Advanced Process Modules to lead a central team of 100+ scientists and engineers towards achieving ambitious goals and driving innovation while developing semiconductor manufacturing processes for next‑generation More‑than‑Moore technologies. The candidate will be responsible for grooming a winning team, defining the medium‑to‑long term process and equipment capability roadmap to support various technology programs under A*STAR Semiconductor Flagship – namely, Advanced Packaging, Silicon Photonics, Flat Optics, Silicon Carbide Power, GaN RF, and MEMS – and leading the development of novel processes to enable differentiated first‑in‑class/best‑in‑class technology platforms.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of advanced unit processes related to various programs including advanced packaging, silicon photonics, flat optics, GaN, SiC, and MEMS. The candidate is expected to be familiar with state‑of‑the‑art semiconductor equipment and hardware innovations. The candidate is also expected to be strong in process capabilities.
• Lead the team to deliver innovations involving process methodologies, materials, or approach, and capture intellectual property aligned with the roadmaps of the above programs.
• Oversee pathfinding, process development and qualification activities to ensure timely technology readiness meeting module technical specifications (MTS).

Strategic Leadership

• Define and drive the medium‑to‑long‑term roadmap for unit module development aligned with the objectives of various programs within A*STAR semiconductor flagship.
• Evaluate industry trends, collaborate with program teams, and identify/define process technology differentiators to obtain competitive advantage.
• Act as key influencer in internal leadership teams as well as industry partnerships and strategic collaborations.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

• Partner with various internal and external teams to co‑optimize process technology and product/platform performance.
• Interface with suppliers as well as internal and external collaborators, customers and partners to adopt cutting‑edge innovations and add novel capabilities.
• Review and align on module technical specifications (MTS) and timeline from integration/device teams.

People & Organizational Development

• Build, mentor, and retain a high‑performing, multidisciplinary engineering team.
• Foster a culture of agility, technical excellence, individual and team innovation, intra‑/inter‑department collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Effectively manage research funding obtained through grant proposals, industry partnerships, and strategic collaborations.

Operational Excellence

• Manage resource allocation efficiently amid competing priorities from different technology development departments.
• Establish clear goals, metrics, and milestones to evaluate progress on pathfinding programs and technology development initiatives.
• Ensure effective project management, documentation, and knowledge dissemination across multidisciplinary teams.

Qualifications / Requirements

• PhD in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• 15+ years of experience in semiconductor process development, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership role managing complex teams/projects.
• Broad knowledge of multiple process technologies including optical lithography, etch, diffusion/thin films, electroplating, CMP, bonding.
• Familiar with state‑of‑the‑art semiconductor equipment and hardware innovations.
• Strong understanding of considerations in process development cycle including early pathfinding and manufacturing scalability.
• Strong, hands‑on people manager demonstrating excellent leadership, communication, and strategic thinking skills.
• Extensive experience working in a diverse, matrixed environment and collaborating across functions.