Sr. Process Engineer - Photolithography (Akoustis)

SR. PROCESS ENGINEER - PHOTOLITHOGRAPHY (AKOUSTIS)

Akoustis is now operating as a wholly owned subsidiary of SpaceX providing industry leading RF filters using patented XBAW technology to help drive the mission of making human life multi-planetary, while also connecting the world through Starlink. Our work will help further the impact that Starlink is already making to 5M+ users around the world, while allowing us to broaden that reach dramatically and continue connecting the unconnected here on earth.

XBAW technology utilizes MEMS-based thin film transfer process, enabling a broad range of piezoelectric material synthesis and compositions tailored for specific application needs with enhanced material properties and an optimized resonator performance including superior figure of merit from coupling and Q factor. A photolithography engineer will manage photolithography equipment, drive yield and cost improvements, and collaborate with design and production teams to support a high-mix, high-reliability manufacturing environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and implement new photolithography processes and integrate them into the production flow.
• Drive continuous process improvement to enhance yield, reduce cycle time, and lower manufacturing costs.
• Sustain and optimize multiple existing photolithography processes across various products in a high-mix environment.
• Serve as tool owner for photolithography equipment, including exposure tools, resist coat/develop systems, and metrology instruments.
• Work closely with maintenance teams and tool vendors to troubleshoot and resolve tool and process issues.
• Collaborate with the design teams to establish ground rules and designs that optimize manufacturability.
• Lead the installation of new photolithography tools, including both capability-enhancing tools and capacity expansion tools.
• Write and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), engineering instructions, and documentation related to lithography process control.
• Utilize Statistical Process Control (SPC) and Design of Experiments (DOE) methodologies to monitor, control, and improve processes.
• Apply structured problem-solving tools such as 8D, risk management, and change control systems to resolve and prevent recurring issues.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• BS degree in Chemical Engineering, Microelectronics Engineering, Electrical Engineering or Materials Science and Engineering.
• 5+ years of experience in photolithography process engineering within semiconductor manufacturing.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• MS or PhD in Chemical Engineering, Microelectronics Engineering, Electrical Engineering or Materials Science and Engineering.
• Proven experience with:




• ASML MUV Exposure Steppers
• TEL Clean Track resist coat/develop systems
• Polyimide coating
• Metrology tools for alignment, CD, film thickness, and defect analysis.




• Proficiency in JMP statistical software, Microsoft Office Suite, and KLayout CAD software.
• Strong written, verbal, and organizational communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to create detailed technical documentation and training materials.
• Solid understanding of SPC, DOE, 8D, and risk/change management processes.
• Experience leading cross-functional projects or tool installation programs.
• Familiarity with high-volume manufacturing environments involving frequent product changeovers.
• Experience in quality audits and yield improvement initiatives.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed to meet critical milestones.
• This position will sit 100% onsite in our Canandaigua, NY facility.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range:

Process Engineer/Senior: $90,00.00 - $155,000.00/per year

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k)-retirement plan, short & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation & will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Exempt employees are eligible for 5 days of sick leave per year.