Materials/Electrical Engineering Support Specialist

Penn State University • Freeport, PA

94d • $51,000 - $81,500

About The Position

The Electronic Materials and Devices Department (EMDD) of the Penn State Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) is seeking motivated candidates to fill the role of an Engineering Support Specialist. This position will directly support research and development (R&D) efforts in the areas of electronic materials processing, characterization/testing, semiconductor device fabrication, sample preparation, polishing, and/or materials growth/synthesis. EMDD is a vertically integrated lab with key areas of focus including wide/ultrawide bandgap (WBG/UWBG) semiconductors, sensors, ceramics, laser processing, and additive manufacturing (AM). ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

Requirements

• Background knowledge of sample preparation methods (e.g., cutting, lapping, polishing, etc.)
• Background knowledge of materials characterization methods (e.g., microscopy, spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction, etc.)
• Understanding of laboratory safety practices (e.g., PPE, chemical handling, waste disposal, etc.)
• Ability to maintain organized and detailed notes
• Experience using Microsoft Office, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Good communication skills
• Willingness to work in a fast-paced team environment

Nice To Haves

• Hands-on experience preparing samples
• Hands-on experience using materials characterization tools
• Hands-on experience using device processing equipment
• Basic knowledge of vacuum systems/hardware
• Basic knowledge of semiconductor materials and devices
• Experience using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, etc.)

Responsibilities

• Preparing samples (e.g., cutting, lapping, polishing, etc.)
• Characterizing materials and devices (e.g., microscopy, spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction, electrical testing, etc.)
• Performing device processing steps (e.g., lithography, etching, deposition, etc.)
• Configuring furnaces/reactors and hardware for vacuum systems
• Running furnaces/reactors and monitoring materials growth/synthesis processes
• Performing equipment maintenance and troubleshooting
• Analyzing data and communicating results
• Perform assembly operations and fabrication of facility and test equipment
• Provide input to and perform design and layout of standard facility and test equipment as directed
• Inspect, test, and calibrate parts and equipment as directed
• Evaluate the selection of materials, and components based on operational and performance specifications
• Assess and identify system faults, and adjust and repair as directed
• Assist senior technical/engineering staff in gathering, compiling, and archiving test data in the laboratory or in the field
• May work as part of a test project support team, including selected task leadership roles, in the laboratory, or in the field
• May develop and provide documentation for task procedures and process evaluation

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Robust retirement plans
• Substantial paid time off including holidays, vacation, and sick time
• 75% tuition discount available to employees and eligible spouses and children

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree