FIRST ETH Zurich - Center for Micro- and Nanoscience
80%-100%, Zurich, permanent
The Clean Room Manager will oversee the daily operations and maintenance of an academic clean room environment, ensuring that it meets strict cleanliness, safety, and operational standards. The ideal candidate will manage a team of technicians while collaborating with the scientific staff and users. The Clean Room Manager and the entire cleanroom team provide essential services that enable scientists at ETH Zurich to develop new technologies necessary for their successful research.
Job Description
The Clean Room Manager will report to the coordinator of FIRST, supporting the research mission of the FIRST management team and its exchange with the office of the Vice President Research at ETH Zurich.
In addition to management tasks, this role includes operational duties within the clean room. Candidates must possess experience in maintaining clean room infrastructure and demonstrate hands-on skills in the use and maintenance of specific equipment such as deposition, growth, or lithography tools.
Profile
Clean Room Operations Management:
Oversee the day-to-day operations of clean room facilities, ensuring optimal performance and minimal downtime.
Coordinate with users on facility upgrades, equipment installations, and repairs.
Assume responsibility for infrastructure and assist in the operation of key tools.
Coordinate and exchange information with other core facilities at ETH Zurich.
Plan for the future relocation of the clean room into a new building on the ETH Hönggerberg campus.
Team Leadership:
Supervise the training of clean room technicians, scientific staff, and users.
Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide feedback to team members.
Compliance and Safety:
Ensure adherence to safety protocols and procedures within the clean room environment.
Supervise documentation related to clean room operations, including safety manuals and audit reports.
Budget and Inventory Management:
Manage the budget for clean room operations, including supplies, equipment, and staffing costs.
Plan investments for equipment and procurement.
Experience:
7+ years of experience in a clean room or related environment.
Proven track record of managing teams and coordinating with cross-functional departments.
Experience in fields such as photonics, nanotechnology, or electronics is an asset.
Specific skills in using and maintaining key tools like growth machines (MBE, MOCVD, etc.) or lithography machines (DWL, E-beam) are beneficial.
A Ph.D. degree in a related discipline is required.
Skills:
Strong leadership and team management abilities.
Excellent knowledge of clean room standards, vacuum systems, and filtration technology.
Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to make critical decisions under pressure.
Excellent organizational and communication skills.
Fluency in English and German is required.
Must be a team player with the ability to work in a clean room environment, adhering strictly to gowning and cleanliness protocols.
Workplace
We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. ETH Zurich encourages equal opportunities, values diversity, and strives to nurture a workplace where everyone’s rights and dignity are respected.
We Offer
Your career with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which supports your professional development and contributes to positive societal change.
We are actively committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university.
Expect numerous benefits, such as public transport passes, car sharing options, a wide range of sports activities via ASVZ, childcare provisions, and attractive pension benefits.
Curious? So Are We.
Starting date: The anticipated start date for this position is January 2026, with some flexibility to accommodate the selected candidate's availability.
Please apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
For further information about FIRST, please visit our website. For inquiries regarding the position, please contact Sara Gasser via email at (no applications, please).
About ETH Zurich
ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for providing excellent education, conducting cutting-edge fundamental research, and facilitating the direct transfer of new knowledge to society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe and forging connections globally, we collaborate to develop solutions for today's and tomorrow's global challenges.