Engineering Area Manager - Dry Etch (f/m/d)

About the Job

We are seeking a highly motivated Engineering Area Manager – Dry Etch (f/m/d) to join one of our portfolio companies. As part of the Engineering department, you will lead and manage dry etch processes, guiding a team to establish industry-standard plasma etching techniques while developing innovative solutions for our unique devices.

In your day-to-day work, you will lead the dry etch team, while ensuring the selection, optimisation, and operation of dry etch equipment and processes are in alignment with the goals of our pilot line facility. This position demands strong leadership, technical expertise, and the ability to operate effectively in a dynamic, innovative environment.

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:

• Finalise the selection of plasma dry etch, atomic layer etch, and resist removal equipment, including negotiating and approving acceptance test protocols with vendors (Months 0-3)
• Hire and manage a high-performing team of Process Engineers and Equipment Engineers to support the dry etch area (Months 3-9)
• Establish procurement relationships with consumable vendors and coordinate preparation activities for a smooth pilot line launch (Months 3-12)
• Standardise working methodologies across the fab-engineering organisation, aligning with peers in other manufacturing areas (Months 3-9)
• Execute process-baselining for all etched film layers, evolving recipes to deliver viable and stable processes with a focus on automation and standardisation (SPC, 8D, FMEA) (Months 12-24)
• Prioritise and implement process improvement projects using data-driven tools and collaboration with multidisciplinary colleagues (Months 18+)
• Foster cross-functional skill development within your team to support professional growth and effective redundancy (Months 12+)
• Address gaps in responsibilities in a start-up environment, communicating evolving needs and dependencies proactively (Ongoing)

Your Profile

• 5+ years of experience in dry etch engineering roles within a semiconductor 200mm or 300mm wafer fab (FEOL or BEOL experience welcome)
• A PhD, MSc, or BSc in Electrical, Chemical, Mechanical, Materials Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, or a related field, with significant industrial experience for BSc holders
• Hands-on experience with multiple ICP or CCP etching chambers, selective vapor etching, and surface cleaning with direct or remote plasmas. Please state systems you are familiar with in your cover letter
• Working knowledge of FMEA, SPC, DOE, and statistically supported hypothesis testing (e.g., JMP)
• Previous experience in people management or leadership roles within technical or R&D teams
• Ability to work in cleanroom environments with strict contamination protocols
• Flexibility to interact with colleagues across multiple shifts when required
• Excellent communication skills in English

Please note that we are looking for support in the Aachen office of our portfolio company. Eligibility to work within the EU is required as well.

Benefits and Perks

• Comprehensive benefits package with outstanding insurance, pension, and virtual stock options
• An inspiring, creative, and diverse environment with professional and motivated colleagues from around the world
• Transparent and open culture where every individual is highly valued and respected
• Opportunities to develop professional skills and a guaranteed steep learning curve from day one
• A supportive environment that prioritises work-life balance
• Access to a professional network within the Project A family, including 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.

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