Process Engineer - Metrology (m/f/d)

About the Job

We are seeking a highly motivated Process Engineer - Metrology (f/m/d) to join one of our portfolio companies and one of the key tasks is ensuring reliable measurements are captured from our expanding suite of wafer metrology equipment in the Engineering department.

In your day to day work you’ll employ standard metrology methods commonly used in the industry and develop customized methods tailored to our unique objectives. These techniques aim to capture quantitative feedback for manufacturing processes. The scope of techniques includes measuring dimensions, assessing material properties, and identifying defects, with a focus on in-fab, in-line wafer-based systems. You will identify, diagnose, resolve, and prevent metrology problems using a variety of problem-solving techniques.

Join our portfolio company: A German hardware company focused on designing and manufacturing cutting-edge microchips. The transformative startup offers energy-efficient and high-performance components for multiple industries.

In this role, you’ll:

• Develop specific expertise on metrology equipment owned by Black Semi, even if prior experience is with related but not identical tools. This may involve participating in scheduled onsite training at our facility in Aachen or offsite training that includes international travel
• Execute equipment baselining activities using the vendor's "Best-Known-Method" recipes. Collect evidence, such as Gauge Repeatability and Reproducibility (GRR), to verify that the equipment purchased by Black Semi meets the vendor's specifications. Establish initial operating recipes for each piece of equipment and characterize their performance
• Develop an effective system for monitoring and maintaining the stability and correct calibration of each piece of metrology equipment over time using Statistical Process Control (SPC)
• Follow change-management protocols to introduce evidence-based improvements to Black Semi's measurement protocols on your own initiative
• Collaborate closely with colleagues in the role of Process Engineer for short, sequential project-based activities to establish or improve metrology for emerging needs. Work with technical teams, often spanning multiple processing areas, to conceptualize and develop opportunities that enable disruptive processing improvements. Contribute to developing a reliable measurement protocol that can be leveraged to make evidence-based decisions
• Advise and mentor colleagues in various roles to apply robust and forward-thinking strategies when capturing nonstandard metrology, ensuring a comprehensive understanding rather than just focusing on numbers. Provide training and technical guidance to colleagues in roles such as Process Technician and Fabrication Operator, who execute process troubleshooting and manufacturing across multiple shifts (24/7). Use precise written communication in your documented work instructions and troubleshooting guides, as well as through coaching in small-team or one-on-one discussions
• Develop a skill set in the second area (or areas) of the manufacturing line where you do not have direct day to day ownership. This helps share ideas and skills across the organization, supports professional development and creates effective redundancy within the team
• In a start-up environment, fill gaps by occasionally taking on tasks outside your usual responsibilities. Communicate frequently about evolving needs, expectations, and the complex network of dependencies.

Your Profile

• Previous experience in an engineering role within a 200mm or 300mm semiconductor fab and Ownership experience in dimensional metrology, defect detection systems, or materials characterization tools is a strong plus
• Practical semiconductor manufacturing experience with two or more of the following metrology techniques:
• Spectroscopic Ellipsometry (or other optical spectrum fitting techniques)
• Raman Spectroscopy
• Atomic Force Microscopy
• Scanning Electron Microscopy
• Focused Ion Beams
• Scatterometry
• Stylus Profilometry
• FTIR
• Wafer-level resistance measurement
• Scattered light defect detection
• Patterned wafer defect detection
• Automated image analysis
• PhD or MSc degree in Electrical, Chemical, Mechanical, or Materials Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, or a related field
• BSc degree followed by significant industrial experience is also welcome
• Proficient use of the English language
• Working knowledge and practical experience with Statistical Process Control (SPC), Design of Experiments (DOE), and statistically supported hypothesis testing. Ability to effectively leverage tools such as JMP
• Ability to work in a clean room environment, wear clean room attire, and adhere to strict contamination protocols

Please note that we’re looking for support in our Aachen office. Eligibility to work in the EU is required.

Benefits and Perks

• Comprehensive benefits package with outstanding insurance, pension and virtual stock options at our portfolio company
• An inspiring, creative and diverse environment with professional and motivated colleagues from all over the world
• Transparent and open culture where every person is highly valued and respected
• Getting challenged and developing your professional skills by taking over responsibilities, and a guaranteed steep learning curve from day one
• A supportive environment that prioritises work-life balance
• Be part of a professional network within the Project A family, with access to regular events, knowledge exchange and meetups

Apply below and become a part of our success story!

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Project A is committed to diverse and equal opportunities hiring for all – applicants, candidates, and employees alike. We value humans – with all our glorious multifaceted backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences – and look forward to your application.