Electromechanical Engineer

Substrate; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology firm in San Francisco is seeking an Electromechanical Engineer to lead the development of next-generation electrostatic chucks for semiconductor manufacturing. This role involves collaboration with a team of talented engineers to tackle complex challenges while optimizing performance parameters. Ideal candidates should have an MS or PhD and extensive experience in semiconductor equipment development, particularly with ESC technology.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in semiconductor equipment development, with at least 3 years specific to ESC technology.
• Strong understanding of electrostatic principles and high-voltage systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of advanced electrostatic chucks for semiconductor wafer handling and processing.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and oversee prototyping, testing, and validation.
• Optimize ESC performance parameters including electrostatic force distribution and temperature uniformity.

Skills

Electrostatic principles

High-voltage systems

Materials compatibility

Education

MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or related field

Job description

Electromechanical Engineer

Substrate is addressing one of the most important technological problems facing the United States. At the intersection of advanced manufacturing and cutting‑edge physics, we are developing technologies that will reshape the semiconductor industry and strengthen America's technological leadership. We are a team of world‑class scientists, engineers, and technical experts building technology for the United States.

Summary

In this role, you will lead the development of next‑generation high‑precision electrostatic chucks (ESCs) that will drive innovation in semiconductor manufacturing. This role offers an opportunity to work at the cutting edge of semiconductor technology, collaborating with a team of talented engineers to overcome complex technical challenges and deliver high‑performance solutions.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of advanced electrostatic chucks for semiconductor wafer handling and processing

• Direct a cross‑functional team of engineers and collaborate with manufacturing, materials science, and quality assurance teams

• Develop technical specifications, project plans, and design criteria for ESC systems

• Oversee prototyping, testing, validation, and production implementation processes

• Optimize ESC performance parameters including electrostatic force distribution, temperature uniformity, and particulate contamination control

• Drive innovation to address industry challenges such as RF compatibility, charging/discharging speed, and lifetime reliability

• Analyze test data and implement design improvements to meet performance and yield targets

• Collaborate with Substrate staff to understand requirements and deliver solutions that match advanced process needs

Required Qualifications

• MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or related field

• 7+ years of experience in semiconductor equipment development, with at least 3 years specific to ESC technology

• Demonstrated expertise in electrostatic principles, high‑voltage systems, and materials compatibility

Salary Range

$150,000-$400,000 USD

Substrate is an equal opportunity employer. It provides equal employment opportunity to all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, disability, medical condition, marital status, sex, gender, age, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

Substrate will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need an accommodation during the hiring process, please let your recruiter know.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.