Wafer Process Engineer

Forge Nano, Inc.; Thornton (CO); On-site; USD 74,000 - 107,000; Full time

Job summary

Forge Nano Inc. seeks a Wafer Process Engineer to develop and sustain ALD processes on the TEPHRA cluster tool, perform customer demonstrations, and analyze data in a cleanroom/ lab setting.

You will work with scientists, process engineers and technicians to plan experiments, execute designs of experiments, and optimize thin film deposition with a focus on vacuum systems and semiconductor fabrication. The role emphasizes safety and compliant operations.

Qualifications

• AS or BS in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials, or related field.
• 2+ years hands-on laboratory experience.
• Experience with ALD/CVD thin film deposition.
• Background in semiconductor fabrication.
• Experience with vacuum systems.
• Industrial materials development experience.

Responsibilities

• Develop and sustain ALD process on the TEPHRA cluster platform.
• Perform customer demonstrations, DOE planning, data analysis.
• Collaborate with scientists, engineers and technicians on experiments.
• Maintain neat records and support patent documentation.
• On-tool hands-on process optimization and transfer.
• Ensure lab safety and compliance.

Skills

Self-driven

Team collaboration

Semiconductor Fab experience

Vacuum systems experience

Thin film deposition (ALD/CVD)

Industrial materials development

Education

AS/BS in chemistry/chemical engineering/materials or related field

2+ years lab experience

Tools

ALD deposition equipment

Job description

Summary/Objective

Forge Nano Inc., a rapidly growing advanced materials company specializing in nano-scale coatings across diverse markets, is seeking a Wafer Process Engineer to develop and sustain our atomic layer deposition (ALD) TEPHRA cluster tool. This role performs customer demonstrations, process development, and data analysis. The position works closely with technicians to ensure tool projects are executed and the lab operates smoothly, hardware engineering group to evaluate tool component improvements, and scientists to transfer new processes.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• Execute thin film coating tool demonstrations on wafers using ALD on the TEPHRA cluster platform using proper cleanroom hygiene. This includes assessing experiment plan, generating design of experiments, data analysis, and execution to that plan, with meticulous documentation required.
• Work collaboratively with scientists, other process engineers and technicians to perform experimental planning, execution, and reporting tasks.
• Hands‑on work on‑tool for process optimization, continuous improvement projects, process transfer and new process development. Interpret thin film metrology data, ellipsometry and surface defects/particles, and evaluate the success of experiments. Recommend next steps based on this data.
• Keep a neat and orderly record of all work done. Maintain data and records as necessary to support patent applications for innovative products.
• Perform tasks relating to assembly and maintenance of vacuum systems and thin film equipment. Learn how essential process equipment functions and complete tasks including materials production, equipment testing, and equipment maintenance. Evaluate new hardware performance on‑tool compared to the component of record and provide assessment to the Hardware Engineering group.
• Create/edit/maintain necessary documentation for procedures, processes, and best‑known‑methods including work instructions, standard operating procedures, and process documentation & recipes.
• Maintain a safe work environment and staying OSHA compliant with relevant safety training.

Required Education and Experience

• AS or BS in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials, or related science/engineering fields.
• 2+ years hand‑on/laboratory experience

Preferred Experience

• Self‑driven problem‑solving skills
• Team collaboration and communication skills
• Semiconductor Fab experience
• Vacuum systems experience
• Thin film deposition, ALD/CVD, experience
• Experience in an industrial company that conducted materials development and advanced materials manufacturing.

Work Environment

Work is carried out in a research and development laboratory, specifically a cleanroom environment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee handles hazardous chemicals and is in a continuously changing laboratory environment that also uses breathable powders in the laboratory. The employee will be required to wear all appropriate safety equipment including but not limited to eye protection, respiratory protection, gloves, steel toe shoes, and lab coat and cleanroom attire. An employee in this position works in an environment in which safety, environmental and health concerns may demand constant attention. Strict adherence to corporate and/or plant policies, rules and regulations in these areas is required.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The employee occasionally will work near moving mechanical parts. The noise level in the work environment is moderate. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms; and occasionally may lift up to 40 lbs.

Travel

No travel is expected for this position.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range $74,000 - $107,000 per year
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• 401(k) plan

In accordance with Colorado law, the compensation range for this position is listed above. Final compensation is determined based on factors such as skills, experience, and internal equity.

Forge Nano is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.