Associate Engineer Thin Film Materials

Role details

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world’s leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies. We currently have an exciting opportunity for an entry level Thin Film Materials Engineer to join our Inertial Fusion Technology (IFT) group. This position is located in San Diego (Torrey Pines), CA. US Citizenship required. Job will require approximately nine hours per week wearing a respirator in manufacturing lab environment.

Degrees in Nano, Physics, Materials, Chemical, Physics will most relate to this position. Some previous exposure to vacuum and electrical systems preferred. This position participates in the development, production, characterization and analysis of novel materials required for laser driven fusion research. The ideal candidate is responsible for determining and developing effective approaches for resolving a wide range of PVD coating challenges, employing semiconductor related techniques to build complex targets with minimum defects. Assignments are normally outlined in terms of overall objectives, customer specifications, and anticipated delivery dates.

Deliveries typically involve the physical targets, comprehensive metrology data packages and shipping documents. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Work with a high degree of independence in project management while incorporating inputs and constraints from others in a team environment. Translate customer specifications into practical fabrication plan with best product quality while minimizing production cost. Perform PVD coatings, including rate check, composition optimization, stress optimization, and contamination control. Handle and manage radioactive materials in accordance with safety protocols and regulatory guidelines. Work in radiation-controlled areas as part of daily operational tasks.

Apply semiconductor techniques to produce targets in the form-factor required, such as photolithography patterning, photoresist lift-off, mask design and procurement, silicon wafer etching, silicon wafer cleaning etc. Perform failure analysis, implement and carry out mitigation plan in timely manner. Understand and master characterization techniques over time to support the generation of a comprehensive metrology data package that ships with each project. Open to explore new scientific methods and adapt to the production and characterization of targets.

Pursue research projects under the direction of senior staff and management, and work with and provide support to the wider IFT team and national laboratory collaborators in the above topic areas. Perform equipment maintenance, repair and upgrade. Maintain safe, clean, and organized coating laboratories. Documents findings, communicates results to scientific staff and makes technical presentations as required. May publish in recognized scientific journals and present work at conferences. Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.

Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices. Performs other duties as assigned. We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.