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 Senior Photonics Process Engineer to lead 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 next generation of Finchetto network switch solutions. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in: • Operating cleanroom fabrication equipment • Manufacturing and characterizing optical nanostructures • Analysing and interpreting characterization data of optical semiconductor structures. 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 • Lead the development of cleanroom processes for patterning TFLN wafers. This includes: 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. • Operate cleanroom equipment to manufacture optical nanostructures on TFLN wafers or dies. • Provide leadership and coordination to a junior engineer supporting manufacturing and characterization activities • Collaborate with the Finchetto core R&D team to define manufacturable lithium niobate photonic designs that meet performance requirements. • Characterize TFLN wafer properties before fabrication • Create e-Beam pattern files for direct writing lithography. Define cleanroom recipes for etching and deposition processes. • Characterize patterned nanostructures and validate them against the original design. Recommend design variations and implement process changes to close the gap between design and fabrication. • Conduct literature searches and supplier engagements to identify feasible steps and solutions for process development. • Develop a singulation process (scribe-and-break or deep-etching) to enable optical coupling through the sidewalls • Build a set-up for poling TFLN optical waveguides. Design electrode layout compatible with eBeam lithography and the other cleanroom equipment for manufacturability. • Merge the poling electrode fabrication with the optical waveguide fabrication process. • Build an optical setup to characterize non-poled and poled waveguides. Assess the optical performance and quality of manufactured structures. • Identify possible paths towards repeatable and robust fabrication process that can scale up to large volume. Iterate and optimize fabrication processes accordingly. • Analyze characterization results, communicate findings to Finchetto leadership team and report on incremental improvement and process development changes. • 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 cleanroom facility. • Proven experience in manufacturing semiconductor optical structures. • Hands-on experience in optical testing • Excellent communication and teamwork skills. • Strong background in integrated photonics on Silicon, or III-V materials, or TFLN or similar material platforms. • Proficient in experimental data analysis and interpretation. • Skilled in presenting technical findings and explaining complex challenges to stakeholders to drive informed decision-making. • Commitment to adhering to company safety policies, including cleanroom protocols, material handling procedures, and contamination control measures Nice to have • Experience in manufacturing and testing TFLN integrated photonics structures. • Experience in poling dielectric or semiconductor structures. • Experience in managing or mentoring junior engineers, researchers or technicians. • 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.