R & D Applications Engineer

REC SOLAR GRADE SILICON LLC • Butte, MT

7d • $120,000 - $160,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Applications Engineer will support formulation evaluation and performance testing for REC Silicon R&D’s precursor and formulated wet chemical portfolios. This hands-on role combines chemistry, process engineering, and data analysis to evaluate candidate formulations on semiconductor substrates in cleanroom and wet bench environments. The engineer will analyze test results and translate them into clear, actionable reports for internal teams and customers.

Based in Albany, New York, this position will collaborate closely with regional semiconductor R&D partners to support product development, application optimization, and customer needs in Albany, NY.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or a closely related specialized field
• Hands-on experience(at least 3 years) operating wet bench equipment and working within cleanroom environments (growing protocols, contamination control, tool operation)
• Demonstrated familiarity with the semiconductor industry, such as process flows, substrate types, relevant terminology and quality/purity standards
• Strong data analysis skills(Excel and/or statistical/analytical software) with the ability to synthesize experimental data into clear technical reports
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for cross-functional and customer-facing reporting

Nice To Haves

• Experience with wet chemical formulations preferred
• Familiarity with trace metal contamination control(ppb to ppt level) and relevant analytical techniques
• Exposure to advanced node process requirements preferred
• Prior experience in a fast-paced start up or new business unit environment preferred

Responsibilities

• Design and execute formulation evaluation experiments on semiconductor substrates (wafers, coupons, patterned test structures) using wet bench and cleanroom equipment
• Perform hands-on wet chemical processing: etching, cleaning, stripping and related unit operations under controlled cleanroom protocols
• Operate and maintain analytical/metrology tools used to characterize formulation performance (e.g., surface characterization, particle/defect counts, trace metal contamination, etch rate/selectivity measurements)
• Compile, organize and analyze performance data across multiple test conditions and formulation variants
• Translate raw data into structured technical reports, summaries and presentations for internal R&D, business development and customer-facing use
• Track experimental trends and flag anomalies, contamination issues or process deviations
• Maintain rigorous documentation of experimental protocols, safety procedures and results in compliance with cleanroom and EHS standards
• Collaborate cross-functionally with formulation chemists, process engineers and Marketing to align testing priorities with commercial and technical goals
• Support customer/partner interactions by preparing technical data packages and participating in technical discussions

Benefits

• Generous PTO: Your off time is important. We offer 144 hours of PTO per year for the first 5 years of employment. Year six, 184 hours. High maximum balance and cash out option.
• Medical/Dental/Vision: Majority of premiums paid by REC Silicon for you and your dependents. Includes virtual medical and mental health options.
• Additional Health Coverage: FSA and HSA available. Voluntary insurance options include life and AD&D, accident, hospitalization and critical illness.
• Earn More: We offer a generous annual company bonus plan in addition to salary/wage.
• 401(k) Savings Plan: Jump start your retirement with REC Silicon’s discretionary contribution does not require an employee contribution. Match also available.
• Company-Paid Benefits: Life insurance, short & long-term disability insurance, Life Flight, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness reward program, pharmacy advocacy and disease management program.
• Flexibility: We support employees through flexible work schedules and limited work from home options.
• Additional Benefits: We provide position-based clothing, travel expenses, training and additional materials needed on a case-by-case basis.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level