Senior Process Engineer Plasma

Want to make your mark on our time? Become a Senior Process Engineer Plasma at TNO in Eindhoven!

About this position

At the forefront of Europe’s photonics innovation, TNO is building a state-of-the-art pilot line for Indium Phosphide (InP) photonic chips at the High Tech Campus in Eindhoven. As part of the EU-funded PIXEurope program, this pilot line will enable the transition from groundbreaking research to large-scale industrial manufacturing, making advanced photonic technologies faster, more reliable, and widely accessible. To help realize this ambitious step, we are looking for a Senior Process Engineer Plasma. In this role, you will develop, optimize, and manage plasma processes that are critical for wafer-scale photonic chip production. With your expertise in deposition and etching of dielectrics and dry etching of III/V semiconductor materials, you will ensure that innovative research is transformed into stable, scalable, and high-yield manufacturing processes.

What will be your role?

As Senior Process Engineer Plasma, you are responsible for process development and optimization in a high-tech cleanroom environment. You will focus on deposition and etching of SiO2 and SiN layers, as well as dry etching processes for III/V semiconductors such as InP, GaAs, and GaN, enabling robust 6-inch wafer manufacturing. By collaborating with R&D, equipment engineers, and QA teams, you ensure stable production, improve yield, and introduce new technologies into the pilot line.

Key responsibilities include:

• Developing, qualifying, and improving plasma processes (e.g. PECVD, ICP, RIE) for 6-inch InP wafers.
• Analyzing process data, performing root cause analyses, and applying statistical methods (SPC, FMEA, DoE).
• Supporting operators and technicians with process-related issues, ensuring smooth continuation of wafer manufacturing.
• Troubleshooting disruptions and ensuring process stability and quality.
• Leading improvement projects and the introduction of new plasma tools and processes.
• Collaborating in cross-functional teams (R&D, Equipment, QA) and reporting progress to management.
• Creating and maintaining process documentation, work instructions, and best practices.
• Conducting audits and quality checks to ensure compliance and reliability.
• Mentoring junior engineers, acting as a sparring partner for cluster leads, and representing process engineering in the absence of the team leader.

What we expect from you

You are a highly skilled process engineer with deep knowledge of plasma etching and industrial wafer manufacturing. You combine analytical strength with hands-on problem solving and leadership skills. You thrive in a cleanroom environment and are motivated to shape Europe’s future in integrated photonics.

You also bring the following qualifications:

• A PhD, MSc, or BSc degree in physics, chemistry, materials science, electrical engineering, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in semiconductor process engineering, preferably in industrial wafer fabs.
• Strong expertise in dry etching of III/V semiconductor materials such as InP, GaAs, or GaN.
• Proven experience in process development, optimization, troubleshooting, and yield improvement.
• Familiarity with statistical tools (SPC, FMEA, DoE) and process characterization methods.
• Leadership experience as a cluster lead or acting cluster lead.
• Coaching and mentoring skills, with the ability to support junior colleagues and guide larger projects.
• A strategic and analytical mindset, with excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.

What you'll get in return

Challenging and varied work with a real impact. And plenty of opportunities as, at TNO, you are in charge of shaping your career. We offer a gross monthly salary (based on your knowledge and experience), 8% holiday pay, a 13th month bonus of 8.33% and a flex budget (5.58% + € 180). In addition, you will be given every opportunity to develop yourself.

TNO offers optional employee benefits, enabling you to tailor your benefits package to match your personal situation. You may also expect:

• An extremely professional, innovative working environment where colleagues are leading experts in their field.
• The opportunity to attend courses, workshops and conferences, and to receive training and coaching based on your needs.
• 33 days annual leave on a full-time basis plus a flexible holiday (prorated) that can be used on a cultural, religious, or otherwise important day of your choosing.
• A comprehensive and flexible mobility plan that also includes full compensation for public transportation for commuting and business travel.
• Great social events with your team and other TNO colleagues.
• Extensive relocation package for international candidates.
• A good pension scheme.