APPLY
The Cornell NanoScale Science and Technology Facility (CNF) has an immediate opening for a Senior Nanotechnology Process Engineer (job class Research Support Specialist III) to join its technical team. This position will be a key contributor to thin film deposition and etching and associated process integration. This is a hands-on process, equipment, and user support position. The position is fixed-term with an expected appointment term of three years.
The successful candidate will have experience working in a multi-user fabrication facility, extensive experience with process integration and other thin film technologies, and experience interacting with users and trainees at a broad range of levels. A customer service demeanor and excellent communication skills will be critical to success in this role.
As Process Engineer, you will support advanced instrumentation including thin film deposition, etching, resist processing, advanced data preparation, and process flow development. You will be responsible for both instruction and user process support and will spend at least 20 hours per week in the cleanroom, regularly handling hazardous chemicals.
Key responsibilities will include:
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Supervising, maintaining, and repairing assigned CNF equipment, predominantly RIE and deposition tools; and assuring the quality and safety of new and existing processes. You also will be responsible for conducting and supporting remote user processing involving the operation and integration of all CNF equipment. Furthermore, the work involves characterization of thin film deposition and etching equipment and making the information available to staff and users.
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Developing and documenting thin film processes related to nanotechnology, as well as integrating these processes into higher level modules. You will support photolithography, wet and dry etching, and both physical and chemical vapor deposition. Publishing results as appropriate.
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Preparing training materials for correct operation of advanced tools. Providing instruction on use of CNF equipment and supporting users in various applications in the thin film processing area.
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Working with specific CNF users to design and implement appropriate process flows to meet the user’s needs. This will include instruction in specific instruments and processes.
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Maintaining specific film processing systems in an operational and productive state. Providing backup to several other facilities as required. Documenting operational issues and repairing as necessary.
As part of the Cornell community, you will help foster a culture of belonging and a healthy work environment by communicating across differences; being cooperative, collaborative, open, and welcoming; showing respect, compassion, and empathy; engaging and supporting others regardless of background or perspective; speaking up when others are being excluded or treated inappropriately; and supporting work/life integration of oneself and others.
About Us
The Cornell NanoScale Science and Technology Facility (CNF) mission is to enable rapid advancements in science, engineering, and technology at the nanoscale by providing efficient access to nanotechnology infrastructure and expertise. CNF operates as a flexible open user facility and is proud to be a member of the National Nanotechnology Coordinated Infrastructure (NNCI).
What We Need
Send us a cover letter and resume outlining your interest in this position and explaining how your experience and qualifications match the position requirements. Your letter is an important component of your application. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
When evaluating your candidacy, we will look for evidence of the following:
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Master’s degree in Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience
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3-5 years of relevant experience
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Knowledge of all aspects of microfabrication technology, including thin film production, etching, lithography, and analysis
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Ability to work extensively in a cleanroom environment in full bunny suit (daily)
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Demonstrated ability to apply novel imaginative and innovative solutions to design, engineer, modify, and repair equipment
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Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with a broad range of users
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Demonstrated ability to work safely with hazardous chemicals
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Ability to work calmly in a stressful environment
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Ability to interact effectively as part of a team with users at all levels of processing competence
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Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.
Additionally, although not required, we would like to see evidence of:
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Experience working in a multi-user fabrication facility
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Familiarity with compressed gas handling, high purity compressed gas components, hazardous research gas systems, vacuum systems, and related components
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Basic electronic and component/module troubleshooting skills
Rewards and Benefits
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This position is located in Ithaca, New York on the campus of Cornell University. Cornell receives national recognition as an award-winning workplace for our health, wellbeing, and sustainability.
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Our benefits programs include comprehensive health care options, generous retirement contributions, access to wellness programs, and employee discounts with local and national retail brands. We invite you to follow this link to get more information about our benefits: Understand Your Benefits | Working at Cornell.
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Our leave provisions include health and personal leave, three weeks of vacation and 13 holidays: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and the day after, and an end of the year winter break from December 25-January 1. To offer greater flexibility for observing faiths and traditions, we also offer two additional floating holidays. Learn more about our generous leave provisions: Holiday and Accrued Time Off | Working at Cornell.
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Cornell's impressive educational benefits include tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program, tuition aid for external education, and Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance Program. Learn more about our extensive educational benefits: Education Benefits | Working at Cornell.
University Job Title:
Research Support Spec III
Job Family:
Academic Support
Level:
G
Pay Rate Type:
Salary
Pay Range:
$82,735.00 - $97,834.00
Remote Option Availability:
Onsite
Company:
Endowed
Contact Name:
Kathy McKee
Contact Email:
[email protected]
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2026-04-28
