Atomic Layer Deposition Engineer II

About the Role

As an Atomic Layer Deposition Engineer, you will execute ALD's, characterize resulting films, and contribute to process optimization for thin-film layers used in advanced solar cell devices. You will have the chance to bring your hands-on expertise to one of the most precise deposition techniques available. This role combines daily equipment operation with systematic experimentation and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Operate ALD reactors to deposit metal oxide and barrier films per established recipes and DOE plans
• Prepare substrates, load/unload reactors, manage precursor delivery, and perform routine system maintenance
• Characterize ALD films using ellipsometry, profilometry, contact angle measurement, and optical spectroscopy
• Prepare samples for advanced characterization (XPS, TEM cross-section, WVTR testing) and coordinate with external labs as needed
• Record detailed process logs including precursor temperatures, pulse/purge timing, chamber pressure, and substrate temperature
• Analyze film uniformity and thickness maps across substrate areas; track batch-to-batch reproducibility
• Support DOE campaigns by executing recipe variations and compiling parameter-property datasets
• Maintain ALD precursor inventory, track usage rates, and coordinate refills and waste disposal
• Assist with reactor qualification, in-situ QCM calibration, and chamber conditioning procedures
• Contribute to safety documentation for precursor handling (pyrophoric, toxic, or corrosive chemicals)
• Perform routine laboratory and equipment maintenance: reactor chamber cleaning, precursor line purging, pump oil changes, seal replacements, and exhaust system checks
• Manage precursor and consumables inventory (bubblers, O-rings, substrates, carrier gases) and coordinate reorders to prevent supply interruptions
• Maintain lab cleanliness, chemical storage compliance, and waste disposal schedules for spent precursors and byproducts
• Troubleshoot equipment issues (precursor delivery anomalies, pressure transients, heating zone failures) and coordinate vendor service when required

Qualifications

• B.S. or M.S. in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, Physics, or related field
• 0-5 years of experience with atomic layer deposition or chemical vapor deposition (academic or industry)
• Hands-on experience operating ALD or CVD reactors (loading, recipe execution, basic maintenance)
• Understanding of ALD fundamentals: self-limiting surface reactions, saturation curves, growth per cycle
• Familiarity with thin-film characterization techniques
• Ability to work safely with chemical precursors including proper PPE use and emergency procedures
• Detail-oriented with strong data recording and experimental documentation habits

Preferred:

• M.S. with thesis work involving ALD process development or thin-film deposition
• Experience with metal oxide ALD (Al2O3, TiO2, SnO2, ZnO, or HfO2)
• Familiarity with spatial or plasma-enhanced ALD processes
• Experience with in-situ monitoring techniques
• Knowledge of photovoltaic device architectures and where ALD layers function in the stack
• Experience handling pyrophoric or air-sensitive precursors

Pay

Base Pay Range For WA applicants is $99,201.00 - $138,880.35

Benefits

Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program. Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week). Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays. Dependent on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on the company's intent to reward individual contributions and enable them to share in the company's results, or other factors at the company's sole discretion. Bonus amounts and eligibility are not guaranteed and subject to change and cancellation. Please check with your recruiter for more details.