About us

We see the semiconductor industry as a realm of possibility. We see opportunity. We see the profound impact that our graphene solutions will have in transforming the industry. We invite you to join us in driving change with our fundamentally human-centered approach, uniting bright minds around a shared vision. The vision is: Prove to everybody that you can make a fundamental change. Prove with your knowledge and skills how things can be done differently. Together, we can change the paradigm of how the world connects.

About our technology

The semiconductor industry’s growing demand for more powerful chips with higher bandwidth and lower power finds its solution in our technology. We connect chips to high-throughput, low-delay computing networks. The key lies in harnessing the physical properties of graphene to combine electronic computing with photonic communication, allowing countless chips to interact almost as if they were one. Our graphene photonic innovation increases computing power and efficiency to a new order of magnitude.  
 
In short, we connect chips to create powerful and energy-efficient networks, overcoming connectivity limitations in the semiconductor industry. We deliver the graphene solution.

The Role

We are currently seeking a highly motivated candidate that can join Black Semiconductor GmbH as the Engineering Manager Dry Etch (f/m/d). The responsibilities include managing, planning, and reporting on the progress of the team of engineers and scientists working on etch processes and equipment at Black Semiconductor GmbH.

Black Semiconductor GmbH is building devices that have never been manufactured in volume before. Your team of engineers will be tasked to establish standard plasma etching processes known in the industry and to generate new etching process solutions for the challenges posed by our unique devices. You will push the equipment we purchase to implement new device architectures. 

You will provide in-depth peer review of the controlled optimizations proposed and developed by your team. You will identify and prioritize improvement projects through your own observation and through listening to the needs of your staff and the needs of the organization. You will communicate proactively with regards to planned timelines and probabilities of success, budget requirements, and maturation forecasts of etch enhancements in development.
 

Together with our team you will leave your fingerprints on our technology, though never literally we hope. 

To join our team, you should be excited to:

• "The ideal case to fill this role by an individual should be capable of either A) leading the dry etch team and another processing area within the fab. Possibly the second area of your expertise is Lithography or Film deposition by PVD or CVD methods.
  Or
  B) Leading the dry etch team as a player-coach and assuming 50% duties as a process or equipment engineer within the dry etch area". (Please communicate clearly in the cover-letter which format of this position you are intending to fill)
• Participate in finalizing the selection of plasma dry etch, atomic layer etch, and resist removal related equipment to be purchased by Black Semiconductor GmbH. Review/Negotiate/Approve the acceptance test protocols with vendors prior to submission of finalized order. (0-3 months)
• Hire a team of Process Engineers & Equipment Engineers to support the dry etch area in our pilot line facility. (3-9 months)
• Establish procurement relationships with consumable vendors and coordinate preparation activities to ensure the turn on of our pilot line is as smooth as possible. (3-12 months) 
• Contribute to the standardization of working methodology across the fab-engineering organization along with your peers leading teams in other manufacturing areas. (3-9 months) 
• Execute process-baselining with your team for all etched film layers as they become required by the pilot line. Rapidly evolve recipes to deliver a first viable and stable process and focus on documenting and automating and standardizing always with the objective of tightening the variation of what is delivered. (SPC, 8D, FMEA) (12-24 months) 
• Develop your skillset and the skillset of your team members in adjacent areas of the manufacturing line where beside those with day-to-day ownership. Share ideas and skills across the organization, support professional development, and creates effective redundancy. (12+ months) 
• Prioritize process improvement needs through discussion with multidisciplinary colleagues and use a project-based work format to introduce them to the line. Ensures the quality of work done conforms to BLK engineering protocols. (18+ months) 
• In a start-up environment, fill gaps by occasionally taking on tasks outside your usual responsibilities. Communicate frequently about evolving needs, expectations, and the complex network of dependencies. (0+ months)

Your Qualifications:

• 5+ years direct experience in dry etch engineering roles in a semiconductor 200 or 300 mm wafer fab. FEOL or BEOL experience both welcome. 
• "PhD or MSc graduate degree in following or related fields: Electrical, Chemical, Mechanical, Materials Engineering, Physics, Chemistry. BSc degree followed by significant industrial experience welcome". 
• Previous experience in people management, or as a process/equipment individual contributor developing leadership skills through project management. 
• Practical experience working on multiple ICP or CCP etching chambers, selective vapor etching, surface cleaning with direct or remote plasmas. (Please state explicitly the systems you are familiar with in the cover letter)
• Working knowledge and practical experience with FMEA, SPC, DOE and statistically supported hypothesis testing. (effectively leverage tools such as JMP) 
• Able to occasionally work in a clean room environment, wear clean room attire, adhere to strict contamination protocols. 
• Flexibility in your schedule to interact with colleagues on multiple shifts face-to-face when needed. 
• Proficient use of English Language.

Our work culture

People Over Processes. At Black Semiconductor, flexibility is key—we ensure work adapts to life, not the other way around. We champion work-life harmony, where careers are meaningful and enriching. Our processes are human-centric, allowing you to focus on what matters.

Let’s grow together. Your potential is our priority. We provide the autonomy to make a lasting impact and nurture your growth through a culture of continuous learning. We invest in your journey for professional and personal development.

Your Health and Future Matter. Your well-being is paramount. We offer a comprehensive benefits package with outstanding insurance, pension and virtual stock options for your mental, physical, and financial health. Your peace of mind is our priority - in the present and future.

We Live Openness. Collaboration and inclusivity are the cornerstones of our culture. We practice openness, fostering trust and respect. Individuality is our collective strength, fueling innovation and driving us forward.

 

We connect chips – and people.  We encourage qualified individuals from any background to apply. We foster an inclusive and supportive work environment that values collaboration, innovation, and growth. Join our team and be part of an organization dedicated to making a difference in the industry.  

 

Can you picture yourself in this Role and our Company? Let’s connect.