Lithography Specialist, Silicon Assembly (Starlink)

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

LITHOGRAPHY SPECIALIST, SILICON ASSEMBLY (STARLINK)

One of the most ambitious missions that SpaceX has undertaken to date, the Starlink satellite constellation, is our solution to providing reliable internet to the entire world. In true SpaceX fashion, Starlink is taking the next step in vertical integration by bringing integrated circuit packaging and assembly in-house for development and manufacturing. You will work closely with IC packaging engineers, test engineers, equipment manufacturers, and leadership.

The success of Starlink depends on the quality, reliability, cost, manufacturability, throughput, and security of the products that you deliver. If you seek a fast-paced, dynamic environment; if you thrive on solving difficult problems where resolutions have high impact; and if you love the challenge of building something from scratch, then this role will be an ideal next career step.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Operate and monitor photolithography tools, including steppers, scanners, coaters, developers, and aligners, to transfer intricate patterns onto custom silicon products with sub-micron accuracy

• Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting on lithography equipment to minimize downtime and ensure optimal performance

• Execute process recipes for photoresist coating, exposure, and development, while monitoring critical parameters such as critical dimension (CD), overlay, and defect density

• Conduct quality control inspections using metrology tools like Keyence 3D profilometers and automated optical inspection (AOI) systems to verify pattern fidelity and identify defects

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including process engineers and yield analysts, to develop and optimize lithography processes for new product introductions and yield enhancements

• Document process data, generate reports on tool performance and statistical process control process metrics, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives such as 5S, Yamazumi, & Six Sigma projects

• Adhere to cleanroom protocols, safety guidelines, and ESD (electrostatic discharge) procedures to maintain a contamination-free environment

• Support root cause analysis for process excursions and implement corrective actions to improve overall equipment effectiveness (OEE)

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate

• 6+ years of professional experience in a hands-on manufacturing environment; OR bachelor's degree in an engineering, math or science discipline

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering, math or science discipline

• 6+ years of direct experience in semiconductor photolithography operations within a fab environment

• Proficiency with lithography tools and processes (e.g. coaters, aligners, laser direct imaging etc.)

• Strong understanding of semiconductor processing fundamentals, such as photoresist chemistry, exposure systems, and metrology techniques

• Excellent analytical skills with experience in data analysis tools (e.g., JMP or Excel) for process monitoring and SPC (statistical process control)

• Physical ability to wear cleanroom attire and handle delicate products in a controlled environment

• Certification in semiconductor manufacturing (e.g., from SEMI or IPC)

• Experience with advanced nodes (e.g., 10nm or below) or high-volume manufacturing (HVM)

• Familiarity with automation software for lithography tools and integration with fab-wide systems like MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems)

• Keen knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and experience in yield optimization projects

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able to work all shifts & be willing to work overtime and/or weekends as needed

• Standing for long periods of time, climbing up and down ladders, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, and stretching may be required to perform the functions of this position

• Must be able to lift up to 25lbs. unassisted

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to [email protected].