Role Summary
We are seeking a Staff Yield Engineer to lead yield improvement initiatives and develop scalable process control methodologies for a rapidly growing InP photonic integrated circuit (PIC) wafer fab.
This role operates with a high degree of independence in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, driving complex technical issues from problem identification through sustainable corrective actions. Working closely with Integration, Process, Equipment, and Manufacturing Operations, the engineer will play a key role in improving fab yield performance, enabling Fab2 ramp readiness, and strengthening manufacturing quality systems.
Key Responsibilities
Lead Yield Improvement
Lead yield improvement initiatives by identifying key yield detractors, prioritizing improvement opportunities, and driving structured problem-solving to improve fab performance and manufacturing robustness.
Process Control
Develop and deploy practical process control methodologies and control plans to reduce process variation and support stable high-volume manufacturing. Support new product ramp readiness by translating proven process control methodologies and manufacturing best practices from Fab to Fab into scalable monitoring and control frameworks.
Root Cause Investigation
Support root cause investigations for critical yield excursions and complex manufacturing issues by applying structured engineering analysis, manufacturing data, and appropriate analytical techniques to identify effective corrective and preventive actions.
Cross-functional Execution
Drive cross-functional resolution of critical yield excursions, wafer scrap, and quality incidents by coordinating Integration, Process, Equipment, Facilities, and Manufacturing teams using structured 8D methodology. Demonstrate strong ownership, urgency, and execution discipline to ensure timely and sustainable closure.
Quality Governance
Contribute to continuous improvement of manufacturing quality systems by strengthening SPC methodology, excursion management, control plan execution, data visibility, and quality governance practices.
Qualifications
PhD preferred, or MS in Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a related engineering discipline.
5–10 years of experience in semiconductor or HDD high-volume manufacturing (HVM).
Hands-on experience in yield improvement, process control, process integration, or manufacturing engineering. Experience investigating yield excursions and driving structured problem-solving is strongly preferred.
Demonstrated ability to independently drive complex technical issues and implement sustainable corrective actions in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Strong analytical and statistical skills with experience in SPC, DOE, JMP (or equivalent statistical tools), and data-driven decision making.
Excellent communication and cross-functional influencing skills, with the ability to build alignment and drive execution across Integration, Process, Equipment, Manufacturing, and Quality organizations without direct authority.
Experience with 8D problem solving, excursion management, Six Sigma methodologies, and continuous process improvement is highly desirable.
Similar Jobs
What you need to know about the San Francisco Tech Scene
Key Facts About San Francisco Tech
- Number of Tech Workers: 365,500; 13.9% of overall workforce (2024 CompTIA survey)
- Major Tech Employers: Google, Apple, Salesforce, Meta
- Key Industries: Artificial intelligence, cloud computing, fintech, consumer technology, software
- Funding Landscape: $50.5 billion in venture capital funding in 2024 (Pitchbook)
- Notable Investors: Sequoia Capital, Andreessen Horowitz, Bessemer Venture Partners, Greylock Partners, Khosla Ventures, Kleiner Perkins
- Research Centers and Universities: Stanford University; University of California, Berkeley; University of San Francisco; Santa Clara University; Ames Research Center; Center for AI Safety; California Institute for Regenerative Medicine
