Lead Finishing Engineer

Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled RâD Thin Film Lead Engineer with a strong background in Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) techniques to lead our research and development team. The successful candidate will develop, optimize, and characterize novel thin film materials and processes using PVD methods, contributing to the advancement of our products and technologies. This role requires a strong understanding of materials science, vacuum technology, and thin film characterization techniques and the ability to lead a technical team.

• Design, develop, and optimize thin film deposition processes using various PVD techniques, such as cathodic arc, magnetron sputtering, e-beam evaporation, PECVD, thermal evaporation and DLC.
• Manage and direct the finishing team.
• Operate and maintain RâD PVD equipment, including vacuum systems, deposition sources, and associated instrumentation.
• Characterize thin film properties using advanced techniques such as X-ray Diffraction (XRD), X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), and Spectroscopic Ellipsometry (SE).
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and prepare detailed technical reports and presentations.
• Collaborate across multi-functional groups, including scientists, engineers, and technicians, to integrate PVD processes into product development and manufacturing.
• Troubleshoot and resolve process and equipment‑related issues, applying strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Identify and evaluate new materials and deposition techniques to enhance coating performance and introduce new product offerings.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in thin film technology, PVD processes, and materials science.
• Mentor engineers and technicians and act as a domain expert in thin films and PVD processes.
• Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards in all RâD activities.

• Required:
  
  Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field, with a focus on thin films and PVD technology used in production environments.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in thin film RâD, with demonstrated expertise in PVD techniques.
• Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of PVD deposition mechanisms, film growth, and characterization techniques and the ability to apply them to high-volume production of three-dimensional parts.
• Hands‑on experience operating and maintaining PVD equipment and vacuum systems.
• Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation, including statistical methods and design of experiments.
• Strong understanding of Color Spectrophotometers and L.A.B. values.
• Outstanding soft skills with excellent written and verbal communication capabilities, able to collaborate, interact, and influence business and technical partners and leaders at all levels of the organization.
• Excellent analytical and structured problem-solving skills along with the ability to simplify complex problems.
• Demonstrated initiative, accountability, and effective leadership through facilitation, organization, and coaching skills.
• Knowledge of cleanroom protocols and safety procedures related to thin film processing.
• Familiarity with industry standards and regulations related to thin film technology and relevant applications (e.g., microelectronics, optics, medical devices, plumbing products, appliances).

• Experience with multiple PVD techniques (e.g., cathodic arc, Plasma-Enhanced CVD, e-beam, thermal evaporation).
• Experience with advanced thin film characterization techniques such as HRTEM, EBSD, or GIXRD.
• Knowledge of other thin film deposition techniques like Chemical Vapor Deposition, DLC, and Atomic Layer Deposition.
• Experience with thin film modeling and simulation software.

• Full-time compensation range: $ - $ USD. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, education, geographic location, and/or skills.
• Well‑being: comprehensive benefit plans; retirement, savings, tuition reimbursement, employee incentive programs; resources for mental, physical, and financial wellbeing.
• Learning & Development:
  Linked In Learning access; internal…