Join Our Team as a Photonics Lab and Cleanroom Manager
Are you a scientist or R&D engineer with hands-on experience in lasers and semiconductor or MEMS cleanrooms? At Lightium, we are pioneering next-generation photonic integrated circuits (PICs) based on thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN). We are seeking a dedicated Photonics Lab and Cleanroom Manager to become the technical lighthouse of our cleanroom and optical labs.
Position Summary
We are looking for a pragmatic Photonics Lab and Cleanroom Manager to lead the technical operations of our cleanroom and optical laboratories, which support both R&D activities and production processes. You will establish cleanroom discipline, coordinate tool maintenance with tool owners, assist in planning for cleanroom expansion, and serve as the Laser Safety Officer for our Class 3B laser setups, ensuring the lab remains efficient for both exploratory work and stable production flow.
Key Responsibilities
- Cleanroom Operations & Discipline: Oversee daily technical operations of our cleanroom, including BEOL metrology, characterization, and processing of TFLN PICs for R&D and production. Implement Kaizen and 5S practices, manage cable and fiber organization, and establish trusted procedures for chemical handling and waste management.
- Cleanroom Expansion & Lab Setup: Lead the technical planning of our cleanroom expansion, defining layout, airflow, gowning, and process areas. Specify requirements for wet benches, process gas lines, ventilation, and chemical distribution with suppliers and contractors while supporting the design of optical setups that prioritize repeatability, ergonomics, and safety.
- Equipment & Tool Maintenance: Coordinate preventive and corrective maintenance of cleanroom tools, collaborating with metrology, characterization, and process teams. Maintain organized records for maintenance, spare parts, and service contracts, and monitor stock levels for consumables and PPE.
- Laser & EHS Safety: Assume the role of Laser Safety Officer (LSO) for the company, overseeing our Class 3B laser setups. Manage laser interlocks, signage, PPE, and training records, while supporting broader EHS, cleanroom, and quality policies.
- Procedures, Training & Continuous Improvement: Develop and maintain cleanroom and optical lab procedures as living documents, conduct onboarding and refresher training, and continuously enhance workflows in collaboration with R&D and production teams.
What You’ll Bring
- Educational Background: PhD or MSc in physics, photonics, electrical engineering, materials science, microtechnology, or a related field, with 5+ years of hands-on R&D experience in a semiconductor, MEMS, photonics, or comparable high-tech cleanroom.
- Technical Expertise: Strong experience with optical setups and lasers; holding a laser safety certificate and willingness to serve as our LSO is a significant advantage. Familiarity with cleanroom protocols, wafer handling, chemical safety, and process environments is essential. Knowledge of ISO 14644, ISO 9001, IEC 60825, and SEMI standards is a plus.
- Mindset: Exposure to Kaizen, 5S, or lean methodologies, or a sincere interest in applying them in a scientific context. A genuine motivation to transition from pure research into a role where you can influence how science is conducted. You should be credible and respected by your peers, pragmatic, and comfortable in a fast-paced startup environment.
- Languages: Fluency in English is required; knowledge of German or Swiss German is a strong asset for interacting with local suppliers, subcontractors, and authorities.
What We Offer
- Competitive compensation and benefits package, including an employee stock option plan (ESOP), fully-covered Pillar Two, and generous vacation.
- A unique opportunity to lead a cutting-edge manufacturing initiative in the rapidly growing field of photonics.
- A collaborative and innovative work environment where your contributions will shape the future of telecommunications, datacom, and beyond.
- Become a key player in an early-phase startup and join a young, motivated, and energetic team. You will have the unique opportunity to create, grow, and develop your professional skills at a fast pace.
Final Thoughts
If you are passionate about building new technology from the ground up and thrive in a collaborative, results-driven environment, we would love to hear from you. Apply online using the form below.
Note: Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
Lightium is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.