Process Engineer II Senior

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The candidate will be an individual with demonstrated expertise, preferably in two or more of the following areas:

• AFM-based metrology techniques, including topographical and force-based measurements

• Infrared (IR) spectroscopy and nanoscale IR characterization

• Inorganic materials characterization, including oxides, nitrides, and metal systems

• Photolithography-related characterization, including EUV patterning, line-edge effects, and interface analysis

• Design of Experiments (DOE) and data-driven evaluation methodologies

The candidate will have several years of experience working with advanced metrology tools and applied characterization techniques in a semiconductor manufacturing or development environment. The role will focus on integrating AFM and IR-based methods to solve high-value problems. He/she will work closely with internal Business Units (BUs) to clearly understand technical challenges, translate problems into structured evaluation plans, and assess the suitability and limitations of AFM- and IR-based characterization approaches. The role requires independent experimental execution, strong analytical judgment, and the ability to communicate results effectively to diverse technical stakeholders.

This position requires hands-on operation in a cleanroom environment, including extended time spent on tool operation, sample preparation, data collection, and troubleshooting.

Qualifications

• MS or PhD in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field

• 3+ years (MS)of relevant work experience in semiconductor metrology, materials characterization, or process development

• Strong working knowledge of IR peak identification and interpretation

• Experience designing and executing DOE-based experimental plans

• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex datasets and translate findings into actionable conclusions

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Willingness to work hands-on in a cleanroom environment for multiple hours per day

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with internal Business Units (BUs) to understand challenges

• Design and execute AFM- and IR-based characterization experiments, including DOE definition

• Perform hands-on measurements, including tool setup, optimization, and troubleshooting

• Analyze and interpret nanoscale IR and AFM data with a strong focus on root-cause identification

• Develop and maintain IR peak reference libraries, correlating experimental spectra with known databases for accurate material identification

• Prepare technical reports and presentations summarizing results, limitations, and recommendations

• Contribute to technical review discussions with BU partners and cross-functional teams

• Engage with external vendors as needed to understand tool capabilities, limitations, and future enhancements

Functional Knowledge

• Regarded as a technical expert in AFM- and IR-based materials characterization

• Demonstrates deep expertise in own discipline and practical working knowledge of adjacent metrology techniques

• Understands semiconductor manufacturing constraints and integration challenges

Business Expertise

• Anticipates BU needs and proactively aligns technical work with business priorities

• Clearly communicates capabilities, limitations, and tradeoffs of characterization approaches

• Supports data-driven decisions on technology readiness and applicability

Leadership

• Leads technical projects with limited supervision

• Demonstrates bias for action and high execution velocity

• Influences technical direction through expertise rather than authority

Problem Solving

• Solves unique and complex problems requiring conceptual and analytical thinking

• Demonstrates persistence and motivation to identify root cause and close issues

Impact

• Influences internal metrology strategies and application decisions

• Impacts product development timelines and process robustness

Interpersonal Skills

• Communicates complex concepts clearly and effectively

• Builds strong working relationships across Business Units

• Persuades through data, structured reasoning, and technical credibility

Additional Information

Time Type:
Full time

Employee Type:
Assignee / Regular

Travel:
Yes, 10% of the Time

Relocation Eligible:
No

The salary offered to a selected candidate will be based on multiple factors including location, hire grade, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and with consideration of internal equity of our current team members. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable.

For all sales roles, the posted salary range is the Target Total Cash (TTC) range for the role, which is the sum of base salary and target bonus amount at 100% goal achievement.

Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.

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