Senior Etch Process Engineer in Newport, Wales

Company Overview

The SPTS division of KLA designs, manufactures and markets wafer processing solutions for the global semiconductor and related industries. SPTS provides industry leading etch and deposition process technologies on a range of single wafer handling platforms. End‑market applications include micro‑electromechanical systems (MEMS), advanced packaging, LED, high speed RF device IC’s and power semiconductors. SPTS is part of KLA Corporation which develops industry‑leading equipment and services that enable innovation throughout the electronics industry.

Group / Division

SPTS wafer processing solutions include market‑leading silicon etch, dielectric etch, dry‑release etch, PVD, PECVD and molecular vapor deposition (MVD®), available with a range of wafer‑handling options applicable to R&D, pilot production, or volume production environments. SPTS is headquartered and has its main manufacturing facility in Newport, UK, with additional manufacturing in Allentown, Pennsylvania. SPTS operates across 19 countries in Europe, North America and Asia‑Pacific, and offers comprehensive service and spare parts support through a worldwide network of service centres and qualified local agents.

Job Description / Preferred Qualifications

Working as part of our Etch Samples team, the primary responsibilities of this role will be to develop plasma etch processes, and process customer wafers using etch demo equipment, documenting the work following completion of the sample processing. This will involve working on a number of different process module types, generating new process recipes to meet customer requirements across all the technologies in which SPTS offer solutions, as well as occasionally supporting hardware testing & development. Additional responsibilities will include customer technical support, writing technical reports for both internal and external use, generating IP submissions and supporting other business units as required. This position will involve some level of international travel (global conditions permitting) in support of customer install activities and occasional shift work may be expected.

Key Responsibilities

• Process Demonstrations

• Demonstrate plasma etch processes to meet the agreed specification
• Assess results using analytical equipment and appropriate software packages
• Undertake problem solving and trouble‑shooting
• Provide the product management department with regular updates on the progress of sample/demonstration work
• Effectively communicate and develop good relationships with customers and the global KLA customer support network
• Summarise results in written reports and presentations

• Develop processes in line with SPTS products
• Plan work and execute plans in a safe and timely manner
• Utilise various endpoint techniques to enhance process control
• Run marathon tests for new processes and equipment
• Contribute constructively to the work of project teams for new products and processes
• Write technical reports for patent applications and conferences

• Develop SPTS processes to meet the agreed specification at customer sites
• Provide factory based Email support to field teams and customers on process queries
• Establish and maintain good customer relationships

Qualifications & Experience

Applicants will ideally be educated to PhD level in a science discipline although applications are welcome from any candidate with direct experience of plasma etch processing in a semiconductor environment regardless of educational level. Candidates with a high level of relevant experience may be eligible to enter at senior grade.

Good analytical skills including some experience of relevant metrology SEM skills and advantage but training will be given. Knowledge of and ideally experience of using endpoint techniques. Good communication skills. The ability to work both autonomously and as part of a small team. Good time management.

What we will offer you?

Annual leave starting at 25 days (plus bank holidays), share scheme, contributory pension scheme, cash health plan, cycle to work scheme, global bonus plan, rewards scheme, life assurance.

Minimum Qualifications

Doctorate (Academic) Degree or Masters and related work experience; Bachelor's Level Degree or lower qualifications levels with relevant experience.

Equal Employment Opportunity

KLA is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.