At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of innovative thin-film processes for advanced MicroLED displays.
- Company: Join Plessey, a pioneer in microLED technology with a rich history of innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth opportunities, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Work in a state-of-the-art facility in Plymouth with a talented team.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of technology that will shape the future of AR/VR and AI.
- Qualifications: Master’s or PhD in relevant fields with 7+ years in thin-film engineering.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 € per year.
About Us
Plessey has a long history of innovation. Founded in 1956, we evolved from one of Europe’s earliest semiconductor pioneers into the world’s most advanced microLED specialist. Over the decades, we built a first‑class, fully integrated platform that designs, manufactures, and engineers next‑generation display technologies entirely in‑house. This end‑to‑end capability, combined with a strong IP portfolio, uniquely positions us to lead the scaling of MicroLEDs from lab innovation to high‑volume production.
Our future is even brighter. We believe MicroLEDs will define the next era of technology—powering ultra‑efficient AR/VR displays, driving optical processors that make AI faster and more sustainable, and enabling devices yet to be imagined. With our unique expertise and talented team, we are positioned to lead this transformation.
We are recently acquired by Haylo Labs, accelerating our growth and opening new opportunities.
Values
- Commitment
- Care
Location
Located at our state‑of‑the‑art fabrication facility in Plymouth.
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and innovative Team Lead for Films Technology to drive the development, optimisation, and integration of thin‑film processes for advanced MicroLED display devices. This role oversees end‑to‑end technology development, including epitaxial layers, passivation films, optical coatings, buffer layers, and functional thin films critical to MicroLED performance, yield, and reliability. The ideal candidate has strong technical depth in semiconductor materials and thin‑film engineering, along with proven leadership experience in guiding cross‑functional teams.
Key Responsibilities
- Drive process innovation to enhance device efficiency, reliability, uniformity, and surface quality.
- Take ownership of deposition process modules (PVD, ALD, PECVD, sputtering, evaporation, plating) and ensure stable, high‑quality film performance.
- Work closely with epitaxy, device, and integration teams to define film requirements and deliver optimised stack architectures.
- Establish and refine process windows through DOE, SPC, and data‑led analysis.
- Identify and resolve thin‑film defect mechanisms such as particles, stress, adhesion, moisture ingress, and interface issues.
- Support reliability engineering by assessing film stability under thermal, optical, electrical, and environmental stress.
- Utilise advanced metrology (SEM, TEM, AFM, ellipsometry, XRR, XPS, SIMS, etc.) to ensure film quality and process control.
- Act as Tool Owner for assigned equipment, maintaining tool performance, uptime, safety, and accurate documentation.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives to reduce downtime, enhance tool capability, and troubleshoot complex tool or process issues.
- Provide day‑to‑day leadership to the module team, including line management of Apprentices, Graduates, Engineers, and Senior Engineers.
- Conduct performance reviews, set objectives, and support the technical and professional development of team members.
- Oversee resource planning to ensure effective deployment of personnel, equipment, and expertise across projects.
- Collaborate with the Module Manager to align team activities with broader project and company objectives.
Experience & Attributes
- Master’s or PhD in Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related discipline.
- Significant industry experience (7+ years) in thin‑film engineering within the semiconductor industry.
- Practical expertise in thin‑film deposition (PVD, ALD, PECVD, MOCVD, sputtering, evaporation).
- Strong background in microfabrication and device process integration.
- Proven experience leading engineers, projects, or technical teams.
- Demonstrated tool ownership.
- Strong technical judgement and decision‑making skills.
- Effective cross‑functional communication and collaboration.
- Excellent problem‑solving skills, particularly in ambiguous or fast‑moving environments.
- Ability to prioritise and deliver within tight development cycles.
- Strategic thinker with the ability to plan roadmaps and guide technology direction.
Advantage
- Experience with GaN‑based device processing and characterisation.
- Good understanding of MicroLED device architecture, materials challenges, and reliability mechanisms.
- Knowledge of optical coatings and light‑management films used in display devices.
- Familiarity with high‑volume manufacturing (HVM) processes and scaling challenges.
- Experience in defect engineering, surface passivation, or interfacial film optimisation.
- Strong data analysis, statistical modelling, and experiment design capabilities.
Seniority Level
Mid‑Senior level
Employment Type
Full‑time
Job Function
Research, Manufacturing, and Engineering
Industries
Appliances, Electrical, and Electronics Manufacturing, Semiconductor Manufacturing, and Manufacturing
Process Team Lead in London employer: Plessey Semiconductors Ltd
Plessey is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at our cutting-edge fabrication facility in Plymouth. We prioritise innovation and employee growth, providing opportunities for professional development and leadership within a collaborative culture that values commitment and creativity. Join us to be part of a pioneering team that is shaping the future of MicroLED technology, where your contributions will directly impact the next era of display solutions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Process Team Lead in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the semiconductor and microLED industries. Attend relevant events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge. Since you’re aiming for a role like Process Team Lead, make sure you can discuss thin-film processes and semiconductor materials confidently. Practice common interview questions and have your own ready to show your interest.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to share examples of how you've led teams or projects in the past. Highlight your experience with cross-functional collaboration and problem-solving, as these are key for the role you're after.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our innovative team at Plessey. Let’s make that future brighter together!
We think you need these skills to ace Process Team Lead in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for MicroLED technology shine through! We want to see how excited you are about the role and the impact you can make at Plessey.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure to customise your CV to highlight your relevant experience in thin-film engineering and semiconductor processes. We love seeing how your background aligns with our needs!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and focus on what makes you a great fit for the Team Lead position.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Plessey Semiconductors Ltd
✨Know Your Thin-Film Processes
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of thin-film deposition techniques like PVD, ALD, and PECVD. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these processes in past projects and how they relate to the role at Plessey.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Team Lead, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to guide and develop a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led cross-functional teams, managed performance reviews, and supported team members' growth.
✨Emphasise Problem-Solving Abilities
Plessey values strong problem-solving skills, especially in fast-paced environments. Think of specific challenges you've faced in thin-film engineering and how you resolved them, particularly regarding defect mechanisms or process optimisation.
✨Align with Company Values
Familiarise yourself with Plessey's commitment to innovation and care. During the interview, express how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their mission of leading the MicroLED transformation.
