About Finchetto:
At Finchetto, we’re pioneering the next generation of photonic systems for networking, and high-performance computing. Our mission is to push the boundaries of integrated photonics to solve complex challenges with speed, precision, and elegance. Backed by leading investors and a multidisciplinary team of physicists, engineers, and innovators, we’re building scalable, real-world solutions using light.
The role
We are looking for a Junior Photonics Process Engineer to support the development of cleanroom nanofabrication processes for manufacturing integrated photonics components on Thin Film Lithium Niobate (TFLN) platform.
This is an opportunity to play a key role in the development and manufacturing of next-generation photonics components, which will be at the heart of the nextgeneration of Finchetto network switch solutions.
The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in a lab environment and a strong interest in
gaining or expanding their skills and knowledge on:
• Operating cleanroom fabrication equipment.
• Manufacturing and characterizing optical nanostructures
Please note that this role requires you to be based in Wales:
This role is based at Finchetto’s branch office located at the Institute for Compound Semiconductors at Cardiff University, where you will have access to a state-of-the-art cleanroom nanofabrication facility. The facility features some of the most advanced equipment in the field, including e-Beam lithography, ICP-reactive ion etching and dielectric deposition systems.
Key responsibilities
• Support the development of cleanroom processes for patterning TFLN wafers, working
under the guidance of a an experienced senior process engineer.
• Operate cleanroom equipment to manufacture optical nanostructures on TFLN wafers or
dies, including: eBeam lithography, ICP-RIE, eBeam evaporator, PECVD and common
cleanroom tooling and equipment for sample cleaning, lithography resist deposition, metal
lift-off, resist development and wafer dicing.
• Collaborate with the Finchetto core R&D team to define manufacturable lithium niobate
photonic designs that meet performance requirements.
• Assist in characterizing TFLN wafer properties before fabrication
• Assist in creating e-Beam pattern files for direct writing lithography and helping establish
cleanroom recipes for etching and deposition processes.
• Assist in characterizing patterned nanostructures.
• Assist in executing the poling process for TFLN optical waveguide.
• Assist in building an optical setup to characterize both non-poled and poled waveguides.
• Adhere to cleanroom safety protocols, material handling, and contamination control as set
by the Institute for Compound Semiconductors policy.
Qualification
• Proven experience working in a lab environment.
• Hands-on experience in optical testing
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Background in integrated photonics on Silicon, or III-V materials, or TFLN or similar material
platforms.
• Commitment to adhering to company safety policies, including cleanroom protocols, material
handling procedures, and contamination control measures.
Nice to have:
• Experience working in a cleanroom facility, specifically fabricating semiconductor optical
structures.
• Experience in manufacturing and testing TFLN integrated photonics structures.
• Experience with poling dielectric or semiconductor structures.
• Experience in optical fiber alignment for fiber-to-chip characterisation.
Application Process:
We value innovation, curiosity, and a drive to make things work. If you’re
excited by complex challenges and want to help define the future of photonics, we’d love to hear
from you.
