Associate Electronic and Optical Materials Device Fabrication Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 85,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) in Laurel, MD, seeks an experienced microfabrication specialist to design and optimize multilayer optics, develop fabrication recipes, and apply AI to manufacturing workflows.

The role requires a Bachelor’s in MSE/Physics/EE and 2+ years in a cleanroom. Eligible for Interim Secret clearance; travel to shared facilities may be needed in the Baltimore–Washington area.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• 2+ years of experience in microfabrication/nanofabrication cleanroom environment.
• Proficient in multilayer layout design and Python scripting for design automation and data analysis.
• Experience optimizing etch and deposition processes (thermal evaporation, e‑beam, sputtering, PECVD, ICP RIE, ion mill).
• Willing to travel to shared cleanrooms and lab facilities.
• U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain Interim Secret clearance by start date; Secret clearance eventually.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize multilayer layouts with Python scripting for layout generation and data analysis.
• Develop advanced fabrication recipes for multilayer optics using e‑beam lithography and direct‑write lithography on various substrates.
• Apply AI and machine‑learning approaches to improve fabrication processes.
• Maintain GDS/layout databases with Python automation for parametric layout generation and data linking.
• Refine deposition techniques across e‑beam, thermal, sputter, PECVD, ALD, and MOCVD.
• Characterize thin films using SEM/EDS, XPS, XRD, AFM, ellipsometry and film stress analysis.
• Execute precision etching processes to meet tight specifications and tolerances.
• Maintain and update process documentation including runsheets.
• Collaborate with teams to improve fabrication workflows.

Skills

Python scripting for design automation

Multilayer layout design

Data analysis pipelines

Etch and deposition process expertise

Cleanroom/nanofabrication experience

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Materials Science and Engineering / Physics / Electrical Engineering

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

e-beam lithography

PECVD

ICP RIE

XPS

SEM/EDS / XRD / AFM

Job description

Are you motivated to develop next‑generation optical and optoelectronic devices that protect our nation and advance scientific discovery? Do you thrive in a cleanroom setting, working with expert teams to build high‑precision, multilayer optics and develop groundbreaking electronic materials? If so, we’re looking for you to join our team at APL.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize multilayer layouts with Python scripting for layout generation and data analysis.
• Develop advanced fabrication recipes for multilayer optics using e‑beam lithography and direct‑write lithography on various optical substrates.
• Apply AI and machine‑learning approaches to improve fabrication processes.
• Maintain version‑controlled GDS/layout databases with Python‑based automation for parametric layout generation, fracturing, and design rule checking; develop data‑analysis pipelines linking design, fabrication, and metrology data for CD, overlay, and yield trends.
• Refine deposition techniques across systems such as e‑beam, thermal, and sputter evaporators, PECVD, ALD, and MOCVD to enhance device quality.
• Characterize thin films and processes using tools like SEM/EDS, XPS, XRD, AFM, ellipsometry, and film stress analysis to ensure quality and performance.
• Execute precision etching processes to meet tight design specifications and tolerances.
• Maintain and update process documentation, including runsheets, for accuracy and repeatability.
• Collaborate with teams to innovate and improve fabrication workflows.

Qualifications

• Have a Bachelor’s Degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Have 2+ years of experience working in a microfabrication or nanofabrication cleanroom environment.
• Are proficient in multilayer layout design and modification, with expertise in Python scripting for both design automation and data analysis.
• Have experience optimizing etch and deposition processes, including thermal evaporation, e‑beam, sputtering, PECVD, ICP RIE, and ion mill techniques.
• Are willing and able to travel locally to shared cleanrooms and laboratory facilities.
• Are able to obtain Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain Secret level clearance; U.S. citizenship is required.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

• Have a Master’s degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Have experience using e‑beam lithography to pattern meta‑optic devices.
• Have experience patterning materials for photonic integrated circuits, adaptive optics, RF, IR, MEMS, thermoelectric, or photovoltaic devices.
• Familiarity with advanced characterization tools, including SEM/EDS, XPS, XRD, AFM, ellipsometry, and spectroscopic reflectometry.

About Us

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world‑class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates. We celebrate our differences of perspective and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore‑Washington metro area.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact [e-mail].

Minimum Rate: $85,000 Annually
Maximum Rate: $195,000 Annually