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.
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