Staff Metrology Engineer
About the company
Job Description We are seeking a highly experienced Staff Metrology Engineer to serve as a subject matter expert and technical leader within our 300mm pilot line in Singapore. In this senior role, you will drive metrology strategy, lead cross-functional initiatives, and develop innovative measurement solutions to support advanced semiconductor process development and high-volume manufacturing.
Your tasks
You will be expected to operate with a high degree of autonomy, and influence engineering decisions at a program level.
Technical Leadership
- Serve as the primary technical authority for a broad portfolio of metrology techniques including X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), 4-point probe, Ellipsometry, XPS, and optical/microscope inspection
- Define and drive the metrology roadmap for the fab, identifying capability gaps and recommending new measurement technologies to support next-generation process nodes
- Lead the qualification and introduction of new metrology tools and techniques into the fab environment, including tool matching, gauge R&R studies, and process capability assessments (Cp/Cpk)
- Act as the escalation point for complex or critical metrology issues, providing rapid root cause analysis and resolution
External Metrology & Vendor Management
- Own and govern all external metrology partnerships, including vendor selection, contract negotiation, and performance management
- Manage the full logistics pipeline for external analysis — from sample preparation and submission through to data delivery, interpretation, and reporting
- Evaluate and qualify new external laboratory capabilities to expand the organization's analytical reach
Data Analysis & Modeling
- Lead advanced statistical analysis and modeling efforts, including multivariate analysis, design of experiments (DOE), machine learning-assisted data interpretation, and SPC/APC integration
- Develop and standardize data analysis frameworks and best practices across the metrology team using tools such as Python, MATLAB, JMP, R, or equivalent
- Drive cross-correlation studies between metrology data, process parameters, and device performance to generate actionable process insights
Cross-Functional Collaboration & Program Management
- Lead and chair cross-functional working group meetings, presenting metrology data, recommending process adjustments, and influencing technology decisions with process, integration, and device engineering teams
- Partner closely with fab operations, process maintenance, yield engineering, and equipment teams to ensure metrology supports manufacturing KPIs and technology milestones
- Drive metrology-related continuous improvement initiatives, contributing to cycle time reduction, cost optimization, and measurement uncertainty improvements
Requirements
Education
- PhD in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related discipline
- Candidates with an MSc and substantial relevant industry experience will also be considered
- 5+ years of hands-on metrology or process characterization experience in a semiconductor fab or equivalent high-technology R&D environment, with demonstrated progression to senior technical roles
- Proven expertise in 300mm wafer metrology and familiarity with advanced CMOS, logic, or memory process technologies
Technical Skills
- Deep, hands-on proficiency with multiple metrology techniques including XRD, AFM, XRF, SEM/TEM, Ellipsometry, XPS, 4-point probe, and related methods
- Strong command of advanced data analysis tools (Python, MATLAB, JMP, R, SPC, Origin, Mathematica) and demonstrated ability to build scalable analytical workflows
- Solid expertise in Design of Experiments (DOE), statistical process control (SPC), measurement system analysis (MSA/GR&R), and process capability studies
- Strong understanding of the relationships between semiconductor processing, thin film microstructure, and electrical/physical/mechanical properties across a range of materials (dielectrics, metals, semiconductors, polymers)
Leadership & Soft Skills
- Demonstrated ability to lead technical projects and influence decision-making across organizational boundaries without direct authority
- Strong program management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced fab environment
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with experience presenting technical findings to both engineering and management audiences
- Proven ability to interface effectively with fab operations, process engineering, equipment, and customer-facing teams
- Self-motivated, intellectually curious, and committed to continuous learning and improvement
Other
This is a key senior technical role with significant visibility and impact across the organization.