CLAWS Lithography Engineer

CLAWS Lithography Engineer

Working Title: CLAWS Lithography Engineer

Department: Commercial Leap Ahead for Wide Bandgap Semiconductors (CLAWS)

Location: Raleigh, NC (NC State University)

• Lead the design and optimization of cutting‑edge photolithography processes for wide‑bandgap devices.
• Provide technical consultation and support to internal and external users, translating device requirements into repeatable lithographic workflows.
• Execute high‑precision service work for external customers, ensuring deliverables meet industry standards.
• Serve as the primary technical lead for lithography toolsets, maintaining uptime and process stability through baseline monitoring.
• Perform scheduled preventative maintenance and diagnose/repair unscheduled hardware failures to minimize downtime.
• Manage relationships with equipment manufacturers, coordinate service visits, and oversee major tool overhauls.
• Develop and deliver comprehensive training programs for students and researchers on tool operation, chemical safety, and lithographic theory.
• Act as the central communication hub for the lithography area, providing timely updates to management and users regarding tool status, process drifts, or facility interruptions.
• Participate in facility safety audits and uphold strict cleanroom protocols.
• Maintain meticulous records including SOPs, maintenance logs, user databases, and training certifications.
• Oversee the lithography supply chain, managing inventory of specialized chemicals, resists, and critical spare parts.
• Carry out day‑to‑day tasks such as ordering consumables, maintaining lab documentation, and contributing to lab organization.
• Collaborate with users and staff on technical discussions, mentor student staff, and work with other fabrication technologies (etch, deposition, metrology, etc.).

Minimum Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in science or engineering discipline.
• Five or more years of experience as a lithography engineer in a university, government, or industry laboratory.

Other Required Qualifications

• Excellent hands‑on troubleshooting and equipment repair skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including effectiveness with students.
• Ability to work independently and contribute positively to a team.
• Familiarity with environmental health and safety protocols.
• Comfortable working safely with chemicals and compressed gases.
• Eligibility to obtain a U.S. government clearance upon request.

Preferred Qualifications

• M.S. or Ph.D. in Science or Engineering.
• Ten years of experience as a lithography engineer in an academic or industry setting.
• Experience with manufacturing execution systems and electron‑beam lithography.
• Two or more years working in an R1 university environment.

Employees enjoy a range of benefits including childcare, wellness & recreation membership, and wellness programs designed to support work‑life balance.

NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability‑related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact  to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex‑offender background checks. NC State University participates in E‑Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.