Senior Process Development Engineer - Semiconductor

Approach Venture; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading startup in semiconductor manufacturing is seeking a Senior Process Development Engineer to pioneer the future of optical computing hardware. This critical role involves developing processes for wafer and die-level packaging, ensuring operational excellence, and mentoring junior engineers while working in a fast-paced, innovative environment.

Benefits

Comprehensive health coverage

Flexible work culture

Relocation assistance to Southern California

Early-stage equity opportunities

Paid parental leave

Qualifications

• 3+ years of hands-on experience in semiconductor process development.
• Proven track record in developing bonding processes.
• Comfortable working in fast-paced environments.

Responsibilities

• Develop and own process recipes for wafer-level packaging.
• Achieve high-yield bonding and ensure thermal reliability.
• Lead transition of R&D processes into high-volume production workflows.

Skills

Process development

Statistical quality control

Failure analysis

Education

MS or PhD in Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Eutectic bonding

Flip-chip attachment

X-ray analysis

Job description

Senior Process Development Engineer - Semiconductor

Senior Process Development Engineer - Semiconductor

This range is provided by Approach Venture. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$120,000.00/yr - $200,000.00/yr

Direct message the job poster from Approach Venture

Approach Venture | Advancing Frontier Tech with Top Talent

Senior Process Engineer – Help Pioneer the Future of Optical Computing Hardware!

Opportunity Summary

A well-funded stealth startup is developing breakthrough optical computing hardware designed to surpass the limitations of traditional electronics. Backed by experienced founders and early-stage investors, the team is combining advanced photonics, packaging, and manufacturing under one roof. We’re looking for a Senior Process Engineer to lead key development efforts in wafer and die-level packaging. This role is hands-on, highly technical, and central to launching our first product.

About Us

We’re an ambitious group of engineers, scientists, and builders focused on optical computing innovation. Our startup combines experience from previous frontier tech ventures with a shared mission to redefine how light is used in computational systems. With early funding secured, we're building both the hardware and the factory floor to scale it, developing vertically integrated systems that blend photonics, electronics, and manufacturing into a cohesive, next-generation computing platform.

Job Duties

• Develop and own process recipes for wafer-level and die-level packaging techniques, including eutectic bonding, flip-chip attachment, underfill, and protective coatings
• Achieve high-yield bonding (>99.9%) and ensure thermal reliability through 20,000+ cycles
• Analyze failure mechanisms using X-ray, SAM, SEM/TEM, shear testing, and other methods, feeding results back into process and design improvements
• Lead the transition of R&D processes into repeatable, high-volume production workflows using SPC and tool selection methodologies
• Serve as technical lead for corrective actions stemming from root cause analysis and field data
• Collaborate across design, electrical, and mechanical engineering teams to fine-tune packaging architecture
• Support hiring efforts and mentor junior engineers to grow internal manufacturing capabilities

Qualifications

• MS or PhD in Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
• 3+ years of hands-on experience in semiconductor process development or advanced packaging
• Proven track record developing and qualifying bonding processes such as eutectic, flip-chip, or hybrid methods
• Strong command of statistical quality control practices and continuous improvement strategies
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced lab and production environment, including extended hours when needed

Preferred Experience

• Background in nanofabrication techniques (e-beam lithography, dry etch, PECVD, CMP)
• Experience integrating photonic components such as SiPh or InP into electronic packages
• Prior work with optoelectronic device packaging or hybrid integration

Security Clearance

• Must be able to obtain US Secret clearance.

Why Join Us

• High-impact opportunity at the forefront of photonics and next-gen computing
• Seed-funded startup with ambitious growth plans and hands-on technical leadership
• Early-stage equity and long-term incentive plans
• Flexible work culture and strong support for innovation
• Relocation assistance to Southern California
• Comprehensive health coverage: medical, dental, and vision
• Paid parental leave, flexible vacation policy, and company holidays

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Industries

  Semiconductor Manufacturing, Defense and Space Manufacturing, and Space Research and Technology

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Medical insurance

Vision insurance

Paid maternity leave

Paid paternity leave

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