Western Digital

Company Description

At Western Digital, our vision is to power global innovation and push the boundaries of technology to make what you thought was once impossible, possible.

At our core, Western Digital is a company of problem solvers. People achieve extraordinary things given the right technology. For decades, we’ve been doing just that—our technology helped people put a man on the moon and capture the first-ever picture of a black hole.

We offer an expansive portfolio of technologies, HDDs, and platforms for business, creative professionals, and consumers alike under our Western Digital®, WD®, WD_BLACK™, and SanDisk® Professional brands.

We are a key partner to some of the largest and highest-growth organizations in the world. From enabling systems to make cities safer and more connected, to powering the data centers behind many of the world’s biggest companies and hyperscale cloud providers, to meeting the massive and ever-growing data storage needs of the AI era, Western Digital is fueling a brighter, smarter future.

Today’s exceptional challenges require your unique skills. Together, we can build the future of data storage.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop Plasma Etch and Thin-Film Processes: Optimize plasma etching techniques and create ultrathin films with specific optical, thermal, and mechanical properties
• Conduct Failure Analysis: Perform root-cause analysis on process-related issues and implement effective solutions to enhance reliability and yield.
• Process Optimization and Monitoring: Continuously improve and monitor cleanroom processes to ensure consistency, efficiency, and quality.
• Collaborate with Cross-Functional Teams: Partner with R&D, engineering, and manufacturing teams to scale and integrate new processes into production.

Qualifications

REQUIRED:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Materials Science, Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, or a related field
• At least 2-3 years of hands-on experience in cleanroom processing, particularly in plasma etching and thin-film deposition techniques
• Technical Expertise: Solid understanding of multilayer material systems and their surface topography control.
• Analytical Skills: Proficiency in material characterization techniques such as SEM, TEM, AFM, XPS, and spectroscopic ellipsometry
• Problem-Solving Abilities: Demonstrated capability to analyze process failures and implement effective solutions.

PREFERRED:

• Advanced Degree: Ph.D. in a relevant field with a focus on thin films or plasma process
• Industry Experience: Prior work in optical, thermal, or mechanical property optimization of ultrathin films
• Project Leadership: Proven experience managing or leading R&D projects in a high-tech manufacturing environment
• Simulation Tools: Familiarity with process modeling and simulation software such as COMSOL, ANSYS, or similar tools
• Innovative Contributions: Record of patents, publications, or technology innovations related to materials processing

SKILLS:

• Process Development: Strong expertise in plasma etching, thin-film deposition, and related cleanroom techniques
• Data Analysis: Skilled in statistical analysis tools (e.g., JMP, Minitab) for process optimization and quality control
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for reporting technical findings and collaborating with cross-functional teams
• Time Management: Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines
• Attention to Detail: Precision in process setup, documentation, and analysis to ensure consistency and quality.

Additional Information

Western Digital thrives on the power and potential of diversity. As a global company, we believe the most effective way to embrace the diversity of our customers and communities is to mirror it from within. We believe the fusion of various perspectives results in the best outcomes for our employees, our company, our customers, and the world around us. We are committed to an inclusive environment where every individual can thrive through a sense of belonging, respect and contribution.

Western Digital is committed to offering opportunities to applicants with disabilities and ensuring all candidates can successfully navigate our careers website and our hiring process. Please contact us at jobs.accommodations@wdc.com to advise us of your accommodation request. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.

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