The Role
The Senior Process Engineer develops and optimizes ellipsometry-based measurement processes for semiconductor fabrication, ensuring high performance and yield through data analysis and collaboration.
Summary Generated by Built In
The Thin Film Ellipsometry Process Engineer is responsible for developing, optimising, and controlling thin-film optical measurement and characterisation processes to support high-yield, high-performance semiconductor device fabrication. This role focuses on ellipsometry-based metrology for deposited thin films across development and production environments.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, qualify, and optimise ellipsometry measurement processes for thin films (thickness, refractive index n/k, composition, and uniformity).
- Support R&D and new materials development by providing accurate thin-film characterisation, measurement development, and data analysis.
- Own and maintain ellipsometry process recipes, optical models, and control strategies.
- Provide accurate metrology feedback to thin-film deposition processes (e.g., PVD, CVD, ALD).
- Analyse film properties including thickness mapping, optical constants, and process-induced variation.
- Develop and refine optical models for multilayer thin-film stacks.
- Utilise statistical process control (SPC) to monitor tool performance and process stability.
- Conduct root cause analysis for measurement drift, model instability, or yield excursions related to film properties.
- Collaborate with equipment and process engineering teams to maintain and improve metrology tool performance.
- Support new product introduction (NPI) through film characterisation, DOE planning, and process transfer.
- Generate technical reports and present findings to engineering and management teams.
- Ensure compliance with safety and cleanroom protocols.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Materials Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
- 3–7+ years of experience in semiconductor or advanced thin-film processing environments.
- Strong hands-on experience with spectroscopic ellipsometry.
- Solid understanding of thin-film optics, dispersion modelling, and multilayer analysis.
- Experience correlating ellipsometry data with complementary techniques (e.g., XRD, AFM, profilometry).
- Strong data analysis and problem-solving skills.
- Strong ownership mentality with the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.
- Adaptable and comfortable with evolving priorities and rapid change.
- Excellent cross-functional collaboration skills (working effectively with process, equipment, R&D, and manufacturing teams).
- Clear and confident communicator, able to present technical findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
- Experience with compound semiconductor or dielectric thin films would be an advantage.
Perks & Benefits
- Pension scheme
- Private medical & dental insurance
- 28 days’ holiday + bank holidays
- Free onsite meals
- Onsite gym
- Relocation support
- Visa support available
About
About PlesseyWe’re building the hardware foundation for next-era computing.Plessey is a world-leading technology company driving the next generation of photonic devices and systems. With over 70 years of innovation, we combine research, materials science, process engineering, and manufacturing under one roof. We’re recognised as a global authority in microLED displays, optical computing, and optical interconnects.Join us to work on breakthrough technologies shaping the future of light-based technology and computing.LeadWe don’t follow industry trends; we create them, pushing boundaries and setting standards others aspire to. Every team member has the power to make decisions, drive change, and deliver excellence. We support each other, challenge one another for the best solutions, and lead by example. Together, we build industries and technologies that shape the future and scale toward our vision of the next era of computing.GrowWe expand our capabilities every day — deepening our expertise, improving how we work, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Curiosity fuels us: we question assumptions, explore new ideas, and innovate with light-based technologies. By investing in and empowering our people, we strengthen Plessey’s impact and help shape the future of optical technology.TrustWe operate like a family—honest, reliable, and supportive. We have each other’s backs, own our actions, and uphold the highest standards of integrity and safety. We trust each other to deliver, our customers to challenge us, and our expertise to guide the way. Together, trust enables the collaboration essential for breakthrough innovation and lasting impact.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Materials Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field
- 3-7+ years of experience in semiconductor or advanced thin-film processing environments
- Strong hands-on experience with spectroscopic ellipsometry
- Solid understanding of thin-film optics, dispersion modelling, and multilayer analysis
- Experience correlating ellipsometry data with complementary techniques (e.g., XRD, AFM, profilometry)
- Strong data analysis and problem-solving skills
- Excellent cross-functional collaboration skills
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The Company
What We Do
Plessey is a UK-based technology company specializing in the design and manufacturing of advanced microLED display solutions. They utilize a proprietary GaN-on-Silicon platform to produce high-performance, high-density RGB pixel arrays for applications in Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and other head-mounted display systems. The company operates integrated manufacturing facilities in Plymouth, England, focusing on the next generation of photonic technologies for computing and display engines.
