Principal Process Engineer, R&D

Position Summary  

Forge Nano is seeking a highly experienced and innovative Principal Process Engineer, R&D to lead semiconductor application development and advance the company's TEPHRA technology roadmap. This senior technical leadership role is responsible for driving the development of next-generation atomic layer deposition (ALD) materials, coating processes, and equipment solutions that enable advanced semiconductor device architectures across a range of emerging markets. 

The ideal candidate is a recognized technical expert with deep experience in semiconductor process technologies, thin-film deposition, vacuum systems, and materials development. This individual will serve as a strategic and technical leader, work across Research & Development, Engineering, Operations, Business Development, and customer organizations to accelerate technology commercialization, improve manufacturing performance, and deliver innovative ALD solutions. The Principal Process Engineer will play a critical role in defining technology strategy, leading complex cross-functional programs, mentoring technical teams, and strengthening Forge Nano's position as a leader in advanced semiconductor coating technologies. 

Responsibilities  

Technology Development & Roadmap Leadership  

• Lead the development of next-generation coating materials, semiconductor processes, and equipment utilizing Forge Nano's Atomic Layer Deposition (ALDx) platform. 

• Define and execute the strategic technology roadmap for the TEPHRA production platform to support evolving customer and market requirements. 

• Drive innovation initiatives that enable advanced semiconductor device architectures and differentiated process capabilities. 

• Identify emerging technology opportunities and guide research activities that support long-term product and platform advancement. 

• Maintain awareness of industry trends, competitive technologies, and scientific advancements to inform strategic decision-making. 

Process Engineering & Continuous Improvement  

• Lead complex process development and optimization programs focused on improving throughput, particle reduction, film performance, and thickness uniformity. 

• Establish process improvement strategies that enhance equipment performance, manufacturing efficiency, and product quality. 

• Analyze process data and implement corrective actions to improve repeatability, reliability, and scalability. 

• Drive process validation activities and ensure successful implementation of new technologies into production environments. 

• Support technology transfer initiatives from research to manufacturing through robust development, qualification, and deployment methodologies. 

Semiconductor Applications & Customer Support  

• Serve as a subject matter expert for ALD integration within semiconductor manufacturing environments. 

• Advise customers on alternative integration strategies for ALD solutions across a variety of semiconductor applications and device architectures. 

• Identify and resolve integration challenges associated with ALD films and thin-film process implementation. 

• Lead technical discussions, demonstrations, and customer engagements to support technology adoption and commercialization efforts. 

• Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, development partners, and industry stakeholders. 

Cross-Functional Program Leadership  

• Lead complex multidisciplinary programs involving R&D, Engineering, Operations, Applications Engineering, and Business Development teams. 

• Define project objectives, allocate resources, manage schedules, and ensure successful execution of technical milestones. 

• Drive collaboration across functions to accelerate commercialization and operational readiness. 

• Provide technical leadership during program reviews and support strategic decision-making across the organization. 

• Ensure execution aligns with company goals, customer requirements, and business priorities. 

Materials Characterization & Process Validation  

• Guide the development and application of advanced analytical, metrology, and characterization techniques. 

• Collaborate with analytical teams to validate materials performance, process capability, and product reliability. 

• Utilize data-driven methodologies to support process optimization and technology development efforts. 

• Establish metrics and evaluation methods for process and materials performance assessment. 

Business Development & Industry Engagement  

• Partner closely with Sales, Marketing, and Business Development teams to identify market opportunities and technical growth strategies. 

• Support customer proposals, technical publications, conference presentations, and commercialization initiatives. 

• Represent Forge Nano at industry conferences, technical forums, customer meetings, and professional organizations. 

• Publish and present technical research to strengthen company visibility and industry leadership. 

• Contribute technical insights that support strategic partnerships and future business opportunities. 

Leadership & Mentorship  

• Provide mentorship, coaching, and technical leadership to scientists, engineers, and cross-functional teams. 

• Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, collaboration, and scientific excellence. 

• Support talent development through knowledge sharing, technical training, and professional growth opportunities. 

• Promote best practices in process development, documentation, and technical execution. 

Intellectual Property & Compliance  

• Drive the development and protection of intellectual property through innovative research and rigorous technical documentation. 

• Maintain high-quality records that support patent filings and proprietary technology development. 

• Ensure compliance with company policies, industry standards, and regulatory requirements. 

• Champion a strong safety culture and ensure adherence to OSHA standards and company safety protocols. 

The following responsibilities represent the primary duties of this role and are not intended to be an exhaustive list. 

Qualifications  

Required Qualifications  

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Engineering, or a closely related technical field. 

• 10+ years of industry or applied research experience, including significant semiconductor process technology experience. 

• Deep expertise in vacuum systems, thin-film deposition technologies, including Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). 

• Demonstrated success leading complex R&D programs from concept through commercialization. 

• Proven experience developing advanced materials and semiconductor manufacturing processes. 

• Strong leadership experience within cross-functional technical organizations. 

• Demonstrated customer-facing experience supporting technical evaluations, integration efforts, and strategic partnerships. 

• Strong project management skills, including resource planning, timelines, budgets, and technical risk management. 

• Excellent communication, presentation, and problem-solving skills. 

Preferred Qualifications & Experience  

• Expertise in semiconductor devices and manufacturing processes, including: 

• MEMS 

• Photonics 

• Photonic Integrated Circuits (PIC) 

• RF and Power Devices 

• Advanced Packaging 

• MIM Capacitors 

• CMOS Image Sensors 

• Experience scaling advanced technologies from laboratory development into high-volume manufacturing. 

• Strong background in thin-film characterization, metrology, particle reduction, and failure analysis. 

• Experience developing, mentoring, and leading high-performing technical teams. 

• Demonstrated experience supporting semiconductor equipment, materials, or process technology roadmaps. 

• Record of technical publications, patents, or industry presentations. 

Work Environment  

This position is based in Thornton, Colorado, and operates within laboratory, cleanroom, and manufacturing environments. The role requires hands-on interaction with semiconductor process equipment, laboratory systems, and production tools. Employees may work with hazardous materials and must strictly adhere to all company safety procedures, personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements, and required training programs. 

Physical Requirements  

This role requires regular standing, walking, use of hands, and operation of laboratory and semiconductor processing equipment. Employees may be exposed to mechanical systems, manufacturing equipment, and moderate noise levels. Respirator use may be required, and candidates must be able to successfully complete medical clearance and fit-testing requirements. Occasional lifting of materials, tools, or equipment up to 25 pounds may be required. 

Travel  

Occasional travel is required for customer meetings, industry conferences, strategic partner engagements, training activities, and other business-related events. Travel requirements may vary based on project and business needs. 

Compensation & Benefits  

Salary Range: $130,000 - $170,000 annually. Final compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, skills, and internal equity considerations. 

Benefits Offered  

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance 

• Life and Disability Insurance 

• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) 

• 401(k) Retirement Plan 

• Paid Time Off (PTO) 

• Paid Holidays 

Forge Nano Inc. is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.