{"id":2104575,"url":"https://alion.io/job/forge-nano-principal-process-engineer-rd","title":"Principal Process Engineer, R&D","company":{"id":694697,"name":"Forge Nano","domain":"forgenano.com","url":"https://alion.io/company/forgenano","size_band":"201-500","is_staffing_agency":false,"employer_type":"direct","is_intermediary":false,"listed_via":null,"ats_vendor":"Breezy","truth_index":{"grade":"A","score":86,"open_postings":4,"ghost_share":0,"stale_share":0.75,"repost_share":0,"time_to_fill_p50_days":15,"computed_at":"2026-10-13T05:45:00Z"}},"role":"Industrial Engineering","role_family":"Industrial Engineering","seniority":"lead","employment_type":"full_time","work_mode":"on_site","remote_scope":null,"remote_scope_basis":null,"remote_working_hours":null,"hiring_geo_confidence":"structured","locations":["Thornton, United States"],"countries":["US"],"hiring_countries":[],"hiring_countries_total":0,"salary":{"min":130000,"max":170000,"currency":"USD","period":"year","gross":null,"usd_annual":170000},"salary_estimate":null,"experience_years_min":10,"visa_sponsorship":false,"relocation_package":false,"has_equity":false,"technologies":[],"status":"live","first_seen_at":"2026-10-08T18:10:28Z","employer_posted_date":"2026-10-08","last_verified_at":"2026-10-13T10:57:25Z","board_verified":true,"closed_at":null,"days_open":4,"trust":{"level":"ok","repost_count":null,"flags":[],"days_open":4},"description":"Position Summary\nForge 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.\nThe 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.\nResponsibilities\nTechnology Development & Roadmap Leadership\nLead the development of next-generation coating materials, semiconductor processes, and equipment utilizing Forge Nano's Atomic Layer Deposition (ALDx) platform. \nDefine and execute the strategic technology roadmap for the TEPHRA production platform to support evolving customer and market requirements. \nDrive innovation initiatives that enable advanced semiconductor device architectures and differentiated process capabilities. \nIdentify emerging technology opportunities and guide research activities that support long-term product and platform advancement. \nMaintain awareness of industry trends, competitive technologies, and scientific advancements to inform strategic decision-making. \nProcess Engineering & Continuous Improvement\nLead complex process development and optimization programs focused on improving throughput, particle reduction, film performance, and thickness uniformity. \nEstablish process improvement strategies that enhance equipment performance, manufacturing efficiency, and product quality. \nAnalyze process data and implement corrective actions to improve repeatability, reliability, and scalability. \nDrive process validation activities and ensure successful implementation of new technologies into production environments. \nSupport technology transfer initiatives from research to manufacturing through robust development, qualification, and deployment methodologies. \nSemiconductor Applications & Customer Support\nServe as a subject matter expert for ALD integration within semiconductor manufacturing environments. \nAdvise customers on alternative integration strategies for ALD solutions across a variety of semiconductor applications and device architectures. \nIdentify and resolve integration challenges associated with ALD films and thin-film process implementation. \nLead technical discussions, demonstrations, and customer engagements to support technology adoption and commercialization efforts. \nBuild and maintain strong relationships with customers, development partners, and industry stakeholders. \nCross-Functional Program Leadership\nLead complex multidisciplinary programs involving R&D, Engineering, Operations, Applications Engineering, and Business Development teams. \nDefine project objectives, allocate resources, manage schedules, and ensure successful execution of technical milestones. \nDrive collaboration across functions to accelerate commercialization and operational readiness. \nProvide technical leadership during program reviews and support strategic decision-making across the organization. \nEnsure execution aligns with company goals, customer requirements, and business priorities. \nMaterials Characterization & Process Validation\nGuide the development and application of advanced analytical, metrology, and characterization techniques. \nCollaborate with analytical teams to validate materials performance, process capability, and product reliability. \nUtilize data-driven methodologies to support process optimization and technology development efforts. \nEstablish metrics and evaluation methods for process and materials performance assessment. \nBusiness Development & Industry Engagement\nPartner closely with Sales, Marketing, and Business Development teams to identify market opportunities and technical growth strategies. \nSupport customer proposals, technical publications, conference presentations, and commercialization initiatives. \nRepresent Forge Nano at industry conferences, technical forums, customer meetings, and professional organizations. \nPublish and present technical research to strengthen company visibility and industry leadership. \nContribute technical insights that support strategic partnerships and future business opportunities. \nLeadership & Mentorship\nProvide mentorship, coaching, and technical leadership to scientists, engineers, and cross-functional teams. \nFoster a culture of innovation, accountability, collaboration, and scientific excellence. \nSupport talent development through knowledge sharing, technical training, and professional growth opportunities. \nPromote best practices in process development, documentation, and technical execution. \nIntellectual Property & Compliance\nDrive the development and protection of intellectual property through innovative research and rigorous technical documentation. \nMaintain high-quality records that support patent filings and proprietary technology development. \nEnsure compliance with company policies, industry standards, and regulatory requirements. \nChampion a strong safety culture and ensure adherence to OSHA standards and company safety protocols. \nThe following responsibilities represent the primary duties of this role and are not intended to be an exhaustive list.\nQualifications\nRequired Qualifications\nPh.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Engineering, or a closely related technical field. \n10+ years of industry or applied research experience, including significant semiconductor process technology experience. \nDeep expertise in vacuum systems, thin-film deposition technologies, including Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). \nDemonstrated success leading complex R&D programs from concept through commercialization. \nProven experience developing advanced materials and semiconductor manufacturing processes. \nStrong leadership experience within cross-functional technical organizations. \nDemonstrated customer-facing experience supporting technical evaluations, integration efforts, and strategic partnerships. \nStrong project management skills, including resource planning, timelines, budgets, and technical risk management. \nExcellent communication, presentation, and problem-solving skills. \nPreferred Qualifications & Experience\nExpertise in semiconductor devices and manufacturing processes, including: \nMEMS \nPhotonics \nPhotonic Integrated Circuits (PIC) \nRF and Power Devices \nAdvanced Packaging \nMIM Capacitors \nCMOS Image Sensors \nExperience scaling advanced technologies from laboratory development into high-volume manufacturing. \nStrong background in thin-film characterization, metrology, particle reduction, and failure analysis. \nExperience developing, mentoring, and leading high-performing technical teams. \nDemonstrated experience supporting semiconductor equipment, materials, or process technology roadmaps. \nRecord of technical publications, patents, or industry presentations. \nWork Environment\nThis 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.\nPhysical Requirements\nThis 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.\nTravel\nOccasional 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.\nCompensation & Benefits\nSalary Range: $130,000 - $170,000 annually. Final compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, skills, and internal equity considerations.\nBenefits Offered\nMedical, Dental, and Vision Insurance \nLife and Disability Insurance \nFlexible Spending Account (FSA) \n401(k) Retirement Plan \nPaid Time Off (PTO) \nPaid Holidays \nForge 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.","description_format":"text","description_chars":9543,"description_truncated":false,"requirements":{"experience_years_min":10,"management_years_min":null,"team_size_min":null,"manages_managers":false,"education":{"level":"phd","optional":false},"security_clearance":false,"languages":[]},"benefits":["Equity","Growth opportunities","Retirement plans","Vision insurance"],"hiring_locations":[],"hiring_excludes":[],"relocation_offered":false,"industries":["Materials Science & Nanotechnology","Semiconductor Equipment"],"lifecycle":[{"event":"open","at":"2026-10-08T19:50:03Z"}],"visa":[{"country":"US","licensed_sponsor":true,"evidence":"H-1B filings in 12 months: 1","filings_12m":1,"filings_prev_12m":0,"green_card_filings_12m":0,"median_offered_wage_usd":97500,"route":null,"cap_exempt":false,"checked_at":"2026-10-03T21:08:04+00:00","sources":["US Department of Labor: LCA disclosure data (H-1B, H-1B1, E-3)"],"filings_for_role_12m":0}],"liveness":{"score":86,"band":"hot","label":"Hiring now","p_open":1,"p_active":0.86,"p_room":1,"age_days":4,"expected_fill_days":15,"reasons":["conf:1","win:early"],"computed_at":"2026-10-13T05:45:00Z"},"pay":{"stated_usd_annual":170000,"is_top_pay":false},"html_url":"https://alion.io/job/forge-nano-principal-process-engineer-rd","json_url":"https://alion.io/job/forge-nano-principal-process-engineer-rd.json","meta":{"generated_at":"2026-10-13T11:01:14Z","cache_seconds":300,"methodology":"https://alion.io/methodology","terms":"https://alion.io/terms","contact":"https://alion.io/contact","api":"https://alion.io/developers","about":"Alion is a live layer of people, companies and AI agents: who they are, whether they are real and active right now, what they do and how to work with them, readable by people and by agents and paid per call.","catalog":"https://alion.io/catalog.json","usage":{"tier":"crawler_verified","counted_by":"address","units_charged":1,"used_today":16919,"day_limit":null,"remaining_today":null,"minute_limit":300,"resets_at":"2026-10-14T00:00:00Z"}},"offers":[{"id":"company.slices","title":"One company in depth, by slice","status":"live","price":{"credits":0.02,"usd":0.002,"plus_per_slice":{"credits":0.05,"usd":0.005}},"unit":"per company, plus each slice with data","note":"the employer in depth","call":{"mcp_tool":"get_company","arguments":{"id":694697},"rest":"https://alion.io/mcp/rest/get_company?id=694697"},"human":"https://alion.io/catalog?offer=company.slices&for=job%2Fforge-nano-principal-process-engineer-rd"},{"id":"market.stats","title":"A market slice: pay, demand and time to fill","status":"live","price":{"credits":1,"usd":0.1},"unit":"per slice","note":"pay, demand and time to fill for this role and place","call":{"mcp_tool":"market_stats"},"human":"https://alion.io/catalog?offer=market.stats&for=job%2Fforge-nano-principal-process-engineer-rd"},{"id":"job.search","title":"Open jobs by role, technology, place, pay and visa","status":"live","price":{"credits":0.02,"usd":0.002},"unit":"per posting in a list","note":"similar open postings","call":{"mcp_tool":"search_jobs"},"human":"https://alion.io/catalog?offer=job.search&for=job%2Fforge-nano-principal-process-engineer-rd"},{"id":"company.verify","title":"Is this company real and active right now","status":"pilot","price":null,"unit":"per company","request":{"url":"https://alion.io/catalog/request","method":"POST","body":"{\"offer\": \"company.verify\", \"for\": \"job/forge-nano-principal-process-engineer-rd\", \"note\": \"what you need it for\"}"},"human":"https://alion.io/catalog?offer=company.verify&for=job%2Fforge-nano-principal-process-engineer-rd"}]}