Your future responsibilities

• Development of new dry etch processes for new materials with a state-of-the-art etching tool
• Thin film surface characterization (incl.SEM, EDX, ellipsometry, AFM, XPS)
• Design and execution of advanced experiments, data analyses, and process improvements
• Collaborate as part of the Thin Film Technologies Research Unit in Microsystems Division and SAL Microfab Division in ongoing projects by performing state-of-the-art investigations on dry etch processes and thin-film technology for diverse MEMS applications and beyond
• Understanding the scientific aspects of dry etch processes on the targeted material, and using them to improve the processes
• Performing data analysis using analytical calculations, modelling, and standard statistical methods
• Generating innovative ideas to improve etching processes.
• Working in advanced ISO5 clean room facility
• Project management 
• Scientific communication, reporting of research results and drive technical innovation and IP generation
• Active contribution in the acquisition of new industrial, funded or service projects
• Applying scientific methodologies to the development of dry etch processes
• Following scientific methodology in analyzing and reporting of results
• Driving scientific publications (peer-reviewed papers, participation to conferences) regarding dry etch processes

Your profile

• PhD degree in material science, physics, chemical engineering, or related fields with a focus on plasma physics/chemistry and etching; material characterization
• Over 2 years of working experience on dry etch processes, including hands-on experience with etch equipment and process development in a cleanroom environment.
• Knowledge of Plasma-based atomic layer etching processes.
• Demonstrated experience with development of dry etch for new materials is an advantage
• Expertise on various techniques to characterize ultra-thin layers, including their thickness, surface energies, compositions, and morphologies (Ex. SEM, EDX, XRD, Ellipsometry, AFM, XPS etc.)
• Knowledge in semiconductor technologies and practical and professional experience in related cleanroom microfabrication processes is a plus
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a creative mindset for developing innovative solutions
• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment
• Excellent proficiency in written and spoken English
• Willingness to relocate to Villach, Austria

Important Facts about SAL

• Diverse research activities with many technical challenges.
• State-of-the-art laboratory facilities and equipment. 
• Location in the heart of Europe in Austria – relocation support for non-European nationalities.
• Internal and external training opportunities for career development.
• Home office in Austria (max. 40%) and work from anywhere in the European Union possible (< 25%).
• Family & children friendly - actively shaping the compatibility of family and career.
• “Vital4SAL” to promote a healthy workplace (e.g. SAL coaching pool, trainings on mental health, physical activities, healthy snacks, 24/7 accident insurance)
• € 4 per day meal allowance in restaurants or € 2 per working day in supermarkets.
• Public transport initiative (subsidy for the “Klimaticket”) 
• Our values: Open door policy, flexibility in working hours, casual dress code, diverse teams, working with people of different nationalities, informal communication, lifelong learning, compatibility of family and career, sustainability, personal growth, and collective advancement.

This position is subject to the Collective Agreement for employees in non-university research (Research CA) starting in occupational group E (E3 salary = EUR 4.135, paid 14 times a year). For this position we offer competitive salaries and additional benefits based on your experience and qualifications, starting with a minimum gross salary of EUR 61.000 (annual, based on an All-in contract).

About us

Silicon Austria Labs (SAL) is a top research center for Electronics and Software Based Systems (ESBS). At three locations (Graz, Villach, Linz), SAL is conducting research along the entire ESBS value chain in the areas of sensor systems, power electronics, intelligent wireless systems, microsystems and embedded systems to develop future-oriented solutions for industrial production, health, energy, mobility, safety and more. SAL brings together key players from industry, science and research and thus valuable expertise and know-how and conducts cooperative, application-oriented research along the value chain. Cooperative projects are co-financed by SAL and enable a fast and unbureaucratic project start. SAL is thus shaping the high-tech location Austria and Europe and developing the future 
 

Innovation is our top priority and so are our employees. We are a family-friendly company and support the compatibility of work and family as much as possible. That is why we have been awarded the Work and Family Certificate until 2026. But we are constantly working on new measures to offer our employees an environment where they feel good, healthy and motivated.

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