Junior Photonics Process Engineer

Finchetto– Cardiff University (Institute for Compound Semiconductors)

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're rebuilding scalable, real-world solutions using light.

We are looking for a Photonics Process Engineer to support 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 the next-generation of Finchetto network switch solutions.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in a lab environment and a strong interest in gaining or expanding their skills and knowledge on operating cleanroom fabrication equipment and manufacturing/characterizing optical nanostructures.

This role is based at Finchetto's branch office located at the Institute for Compound Semiconductors at Cardiff University, where you will have access to a state-of-the-art cleanroom 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.

• Support Development: Support the development of cleanroom processes for patterning TFLN wafers, working under the guidance of an experienced senior process engineer.
• Equipment Operation: Operate cleanroom equipment to manufacture optical nanostructures on TFLN wafers or dies, including e-Beam lithography, ICP-RIE, e-Beam evaporator, PECVD and common cleanroom tooling.
• Collaboration: Collaborate with the Finchetto core R&D team to define manufacturable lithium niobate photonic designs.
• Characterization: Assist in characterizing TFLN wafer properties before fabrication and patterned nanostructures afterward.
• Process Assistance: Assist in creating e-Beam pattern files and helping establish cleanroom recipes for etching and deposition processes.
• Testing: Assist in executing the poling process for TFLN optical wave guides and building optical setups to characterize them.
• Safety: Adhere to cleanroom safety protocols, material handling, and contamination control.

• Proven experience working in a lab environment.
• Hands-on experience in optical testing.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Background in integrated photonics (Silicon, III-V materials, TFLN, or similar).
• Commitment to adhering to company safety policies and cleanroom protocols.

• Experience working in a cleanroom facility, specifically fabricating semiconductor optical structures.
• Experience in manufacturing and testing TFLN integrated photonics structures.
• Experience with poling dielectric or semiconductor structures.
• Experience in optical fiberalignment for fiber-to-chip characterisation.

Finchetto is an equal opportunity employer.