Senior Photonics Process Engineer

AtFinchetto,we'repioneering the next generation of photonic systems for networking, and high-performance computing. Our mission is to push the boundaries of integrated photonics to solve complex challenges with speed, precision, and elegance. Backed by leading investors and a multidisciplinary team of physicists, engineers, and innovators,we’rebuilding scalable, real-world solutions using light.

The role

We are looking for a Senior Photonics Process Engineer to lead the development of cleanroom nanofabrication processes for manufacturing integrated photonics components on Thin Film Lithium Niobate (TFLN) platform. This is an opportunity to play a key role in the development and manufacturing of next-generation photonics components, which will be at the heart of thenext generationofFinchettonetwork switch solutions.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in:

• Manufacturing and characterizing optical nanostructures
• Analysing and interpreting characterization data of optical semiconductor structures.

This role is based atFinchetto’sbranch officelocatedat the Institute for Compound Semiconductors at Cardiff University, where you will have access toa state-of-the-artcleanroom nanofabrication facility. The facility features some of the most advanced equipment in the field, including e-Beam lithography, ICP-reactive ion etching and dielectric deposition systems.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the development of cleanroom processes for patterning TFLN wafers. This includes:eBeamlithography, ICP-RIE,eBeamevaporator, PECVD and common cleanroom tooling and equipment for sample cleaning, lithography resist deposition, metal lift-off, resistdevelopmentand wafer dicing.
• Operate cleanroom equipment to manufacture optical nanostructures on TFLN wafers or dies.
• Provide leadership and coordination to a junior engineer supporting manufacturing and characterization activities.
• Collaborate with theFinchettocore R&D team to define manufacturable lithium niobate photonic designs that meet performance requirements.
• Characterize TFLN wafer properties before fabrication.
• Create e-Beam pattern files for direct writing lithography. Define cleanroom recipes for etching and deposition processes.
• Characterize patterned nanostructures and validate them against the original design. Recommend design variations and implement process changes to close the gap between design and fabrication.
• Conduct literature searches and supplier engagements to identify feasible steps and solutions for process development.
• Develop a singulation process (scribe-and-break or deep-etching) to enable optical coupling through the sidewalls.
• Build a set-up for poling TFLN optical waveguides. Design electrode layout compatible with eBeamlithography and the other cleanroom equipment for manufacturability.
• Merge the poling electrode fabrication with the optical waveguide fabrication process.
• Build an optical setup to characterize non-poled and poled waveguides. Assess the optical performance and quality of manufactured structures.
• Identify possible paths towards repeatable and robust fabrication process that can scale up to large volume. Iterate and optimize fabrication processes accordingly.
• Analyze characterization results, communicate findings to Finchetto leadership team and report on incremental improvement and process development changes.
• Adhere to cleanroom safety protocols, material handling, and contamination control as set by the Institute for Compound Semiconductors policy.

Qualification

• Proven experience working in a cleanroom facility.
• Proven experience in manufacturing semiconductor optical structures.
• Hands-on experience in optical testing. Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Strong background in integrated photonics on Silicon, or III-V materials, or TFLN or similar material platforms.
• Proficient in experimental data analysis and interpretation.
• Skilled in presenting technical findings and explaining complex challenges to stakeholders to drive informed decision-making.
• Commitment to adhering to company safety policies, including cleanroom protocols, material handling procedures, and contamination control measures.

Nice to have

• Experience in manufacturing and testing TFLN integrated photonics structures.
• Experience in poling dielectric or semiconductor structures.
• Experience in managing or mentoring junior engineers, researchers or technicians.
• Experience in optical fiber alignment for fiber-to-chip characterisation.