Microfabrication Process Engineer -Subtractive Micromachining
SUMMARY
MicroConnex is an engineering solutions provider and specialty contract manufacturer of high density, flexible interconnect devices and space transformers. Our customers span start-up to Fortune 50 companies serving the medical, semiconductor test and measurement and industrial sensor markets. As a Carlisle Interconnect Technologies Company, our addressable markets are growing rapidly and MicroConnex is seeking qualified, high energy candidates to join our team.
MicroConnex has an immediate opening for an experienced microfabrication engineer to support subtractive laser micromachining process development, characterization, monitoring and control. The Laser Process Engineer will develop, optimize, characterize, and implement subtractive laser drilling processes for a variety of applications, but will focus on high precision drilling of ceramic substrates used in high value semiconductor test systems. A critical responsibility will be tool optimization beyond the manufactured specification and pushing to the extremem performance limits of the laser process technology window. Doing so will require application of fundamental microfabrication unit process development and operational skills. The successful candidate will possess a working knowledge of laser micromachining (direct experience a definite plus) and hands-on experience in semiconductor/MEMs unit process development, control and risk management best practices.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
- Design, document, implement and control laser microfabrication processes including toolpath, energy delivery parameters, environmental inputs and substrate contributions
- Employ structured problem-solving and operational tools for yield and OTD improvements such as 8D, pFMEA, DOE, statistical process control and OCAP
- Establish quality control and process monitoring necessary to ensure high process capability (Cpk) and OTD.
- Provide process engineering leadership and support to Operations in the laser microfabrication unit process cell including troubleshooting, driving solutions and continuous improvement
- Develop staffing models and improved manufacturing process flows for to meet quality, cycle time and cost reduction targets
- Work closely with engineering peers, operations and quality staff to drive high value documentation and implementation of process changes and control strategies
- Evaluate current state and implement product handling and fixturing improvements to meet target defect levels, capacity and cost targets
- Transfer laser microfabrication processes to manufacturing technicians and operators through defined qualification, process control and training programs
- Work closely with operations management to develop, coordinate, and implement technical training for operations staff
· Work and communicate directly with key customers on manufacturing or process-related yield and OTD continuous improvement projects, excursions or escalations
- Support implementation and tracking of SQDC (Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost) metrics in the laser and associated unit processes
- Support and encourage company policies and procedures, goals and objectives, ISO regulations, Environmental, Health and Safety, and Good Manufacturing Practices to ensure effective production methods
- Other duties as determined by Manager
SPECIALIZED SKILLS
- Demonstrated experience in developing and improving microfabrication processes in semiconductor, MEMs or other related microelectronics manufacturing environments
- Hands-on experience working in an IC or MEMs fab in either additive or subtractive micromachining unit process cell owner.
- Experience with materials and architectures common to subtractive micromachining of ceramic substrates used in the semiconductor probe card test industry, as well as adjacent laser micromachining applications
- Working in a clean room environment or clean space with knowledge of best practices and behaviors
- Experience developing and supporting laser ablation process development for micromachining polymer, metal, ceramic or similar substrates in a high-tech manufacturing environment
- Knowledge of laser physics or optical engineering concepts and system design including working knowledge of electro-optical and mechanical sub-system design and testing. Experience with high-power UV lasers preferred
QUALIFICATIONS
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- 6+ years general technical experience required (10+ desired), with a minimum of 4 years in a semiconductor, MEMs or similar microelectronics manufacturing environment
- Direct experience developing and/or supporting microfabrication manufacturing processes at scale
- Proficiency and direct experience applying principles of designed experimentation and data analysis using software tools such as JMP, Minitab or equivalent
- Direct experience in using basic risk assessment and process control tools (e.g. pFMEA, SPC, OCAP)
- Excellent problem-solving skills utilizing structured approaches (e.g. Root Cause Analysis, 8d, etc.) and decision making based on objective evidence
- Ability to grasp new technology quickly
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Effectively communicate with all levels of personnel from technician to upper management
- Ability to prioritize and perform multiple tasks in a fast-paced, ambiguous, rapidly changing environment
- Able to support efforts of cross-functional teams and manage internal projects including project planning
- Excellent personal computing skills, particularly Microsoft Office
EDUCATION
- Bachelor's degree in an Engineering discipline or equivalent required; advanced degree preferred
- Materials, Mechanical or Chemical Engineering preferred; Physics, Optical Engineering, Microelectronics Engineering or Electrical Engineering backgrounds will be considered with demonstrated fabrication experience.