Process Engineer I, Lithography & Metrology

Job Description

Job Description

Photronics is Hiring!

For more than 50 years, Photronics has been a global leader in photomask technology—powering the innovation behind smartphones, computers, automotive electronics, and the devices people rely on every day. Our success is built on precision, collaboration, and the problem-solving mindset of our people. Join us and help shape the future of semiconductor technology.

About the Role

Position Summary:

The Hybrid Metrology & Lithography Engineer I is responsible for supporting and improving photomask manufacturing processes related to lithography and metrology operations within a semiconductor cleanroom environment. This role partners closely with Manufacturing, Equipment Engineering, Process Engineering, Quality, and Facilities to ensure stable process performance, accurate measurements, defect reduction, and continuous improvement initiatives. The engineer will assist with troubleshooting process issues, sustaining production capability, supporting new process qualifications, and driving operational excellence while gaining technical expertise across both lithography and metrology disciplines.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Support daily lithography and metrology operations to ensure process stability, quality, and on-time delivery.
• Monitor process performance using SPC, trend analysis, and data collection tools to identify variation and improvement opportunities.
• Assist with troubleshooting process excursions, equipment interactions, and product defects using structured root cause analysis methodologies.
• Support process qualifications, recipe setup, process characterization, and engineering evaluations.
• Partner with Equipment Engineering and Manufacturing teams to optimize process capability, throughput, and yield.
• Perform analysis of critical dimension (CD), overlay, registration, and defectivity data to ensure compliance with customer specifications.
• Assist with development and maintenance of process documentation, procedures, work instructions, and training materials.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on defect reduction, cycle time improvement, and operational efficiency.
• Support new tool installations, process transfers, and technology development activities as required.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to investigate customer issues, yield impacts, and process deviations.
• Ensure compliance with safety, EHSS, cleanroom, and quality standards.
• Maintain accurate engineering records, reports, and technical documentation.
• Support cross-site collaboration and best practice sharing across Photronics manufacturing locations.
• Additional responsibilities as assigned.

Travel:

• Ability to travel up to 10% domestically or internationally as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Strong proficiency in multiple programming languages, scripting environments, and database management systems, with experience in data architecture, query optimization, system integration, and automation of complex workflows.
• Basic understanding of semiconductor, photomask, lithography, or metrology manufacturing processes.
• Familiarity with SPC, statistical analysis, and engineering problem-solving techniques.
• Ability to interpret engineering data, process trends, and technical documentation.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills with attention to detail.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively within cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Experience with data analysis tools, MES systems, or engineering software preferred.
• Ability to work in a cleanroom manufacturing environment and comply with gowning and safety requirements.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Experience:

• 2+ years of engineering experience within semiconductor, photomask, microelectronics, or high-technology manufacturing preferred.
• Internship, co-op, or manufacturing engineering experience related to lithography, metrology, or process engineering considered.
• Experience supporting production environments, troubleshooting process issues, or analyzing engineering data preferred.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Industrial Engineering, or related technical discipline required, or equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary + bonus potential
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Generous PTO and paid holidays
• Career development and training opportunities
• Collaborative, inclusive workplace culture

Equal Opportunity Statement: We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender, gender identity or expression, or veteran status. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodation for team members’ disabilities and religious beliefs or practices.

Agency Notice: Photronics does not accept unsolicited resumes or outreach from search firms or employment agencies. Please, no phone calls or emails to any employee regarding this opening. Resumes submitted outside of our approved agency engagement process will be considered the sole property of Photronics, and no fees will be paid if such candidates are hired. Only agencies with a valid agreement in place with Photronics and assigned to this role may submit candidates.