Applications Engineer, Lead

PHOTRONICS INC•Boise, ID

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Photronics is seeking an Applications Engineer Lead to evaluate and support digital integrated-circuit processing and MES requirements for mask manufacturing. This role involves analyzing software solutions to define data-operation workflows, collaborating with vendors and internal teams to develop capabilities, and partnering with customers to ensure robust solutions. The position is based in Boise, ID, and is an on-site role.

Requirements

Exceptional project management, organizational, and prioritization skills.
Clear and effective communicator with the ability to engage both technical teams and executive-level stakeholders.
Motivated self-starter with a collaborative mindset.
Strong unix environment experience and ability to work at one of our sites.
If US, ability to obtain government clearance.
6 - 8+ years of experience in photomask data preparation, IC layout/data engineering, or related semiconductor design disciplines.
Expert knowledge of GDSII/OASIS formats, data hierarchies, and semiconductor layout principles.
Proven success in leading complex technical initiatives and influencing engineering direction.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field preferred; equivalent work experience will also be considered.

Responsibilities

Define the technical direction of photomask data preparation workflows and standards by partnering with leadership to identify opportunities for innovation, efficiency, and capability expansion across the regional data engineering organization.
Prepare and optimize complex and advanced mask data using tools such as Synopsys CATS and NCS NDE, converting layout files (GDSII/OASIS) into fractured and production ready mask data for manufacturing. This may include complex and advanced conversion between data formats as well as data digitization.
Generate complex and advanced job decks, manage reticle layout and frame placement, and support metrology activities.
Conduct complex layout verification utilizing tools like Mask Rule Checks (MRC) and Mask Proximity Correction (MPC) to ensure manufacturability and design integrity. Establish advanced MRC and MPC requirements and implementation methods in coordination with other sites, vendors or customers. Provide documentation and training in support of these activities.
Spearhead root cause analysis and resolution of complex layout or data issues, working cross-functionally with manufacturing, design, and customer teams.
Partner with corporate resources to support design and drive implementation of advanced automation solutions to improve scalability and reduce turnaround times regionally.
Lead evaluations of data operation’s new tools and methodologies, making both strategic recommendations for adoption and champion implementation regionally.
Create and maintain technical documentation, defining best practices to reflect new products and technologies introductions regionally.
Act as a lead technical liaison for key customers, translating requirements into actionable plans, and driving successful implementation.
Additional responsibilities as assigned.