Epitaxy Engineer I

At Thorlabs, we design and manufacture components, instruments, and systems that transform the world by identifying, enabling, and accelerating key photonics (i.e., light-based) technologies. Backed by a dedicated workforce of more than 3,000 employees worldwide, Thorlabs contributes to cutting-edge research and real-world innovation.

Whether you're early in your career or bringing years of experience, you’ll find opportunities to grow, take ownership, and make meaningful contributions from day one. We know every employee brings unique talents and perspectives that fuel our success, and we seek driven individuals who are excited to make an impact in a fun, fast-moving culture.

The Epitaxy Engineer I is responsible for the operation of an MOCVD or MBE system as well as the associated auxiliary equipment. They will perform epitaxial growth of compound semiconductor device structures, characterize materials, document procedures, develop new processes, carry out all necessary maintenance of the growth reactor and ancillary equipment, ensure that all appropriate safety measures are carried out, and interface with in-house epitaxial material customers.

• Perform epitaxial growth of III-V compound semiconductor materials by MOCVD or MBE with minimal supervision
• Maintain and repair growth reactor and support equipment with supervision
• Document procedures for material growth and equipment maintenance
• Maintain records of material growth parameters, characterization data, and equipment maintenance
• Ensure material quality
• Optimize process yield and throughput
• Carry out process development under supervision of senior staff
• Ensure safe equipment operation and procedures including appropriate engineering controls, execution of safety procedures, toxic gas monitoring, and personal protective equipment usage
• Characterize epitaxial material using optical microscope, X-ray diffraction, photoluminescence, electrochemical CV profiling, and Hall effect measurements and make process adjustments with minimal supervision
• Troubleshoot equipment, material, and characterization issues with help from senior staff
• Communicate system status to management and production personnel
• Work effectively with other members of the Epitaxy Group to solve problems, coordinate activities, and ensure that Group goals are achieved
• Perform other duties as assigned

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Material Science, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or Chemistry plus a minimum of 1 year experience in epitaxial wafer growth of arsenide/phosphide materials, material characterization, or device fabrication, preferably in a manufacturing environment, or master’s degree in Material Science, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or Chemistry

• Basic understanding of semiconductor physics
• Proficient in BS-level mathematics
• Experience with personal protective equipment and chemical safety
• Wafer handling experience
• Experience with clean room operations
• Effective oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment
• Strong organizational and planning skills
• Systematic and detail oriented
• Working knowledge of manufacturing methods such as 5S, Lean Manufacturing, Kanban, and DOE a plus
• Ability to work on ITAR related products and processes

This position requires candidates to be a U.S. Person under U.S export control regulations.

The estimated pay range for this role is $85,000 - $ 90,000 annually

Thorlabs values its diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identify or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age or veteran status. Job descriptions are not intended as and do not create employment contracts. The organization maintains its status as an at-will employer. Employees can be terminated for any reason not prohibited by law.

Thorlabs offers a complete benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, company paid life insurance, a generous PTO package, a 401(k) plan, and tuition reimbursement just to name a few.