R&D Engineer Dry Etch 

Background 

As demand for higher memory density grows, 3D memory technologies—such as 3D NAND and 3D DRAM—are becoming increasingly important. In parallel, hybrid bonding is emerging as a key enabler for high-density vertical interconnects in both memory and logic applications. These technologies require precise etching of high aspect ratio structures with tight profile control and minimal damage. 

Dry etch processes are critical for forming deep vias, trenches, and vertical channels in 3D architectures. Challenges include maintaining uniformity in narrow features and integrating diverse materials.

The Etch group is seeking an R&D engineer to develop advanced dry etch processes for 3D integration, including 3D memory and logic. The role involves close collaboration with integration and metrology teams to support future technology nodes. 

What you will do

As an R&D Etch Process Engineer, you will develop advanced dry etch solutions using imec’s state-of-the-art 300 mm pilot line and characterization infrastructure. You will play a key role in understanding and optimizing the interaction between etch processes and complex 3D integration schemes. 

Your responsibilities include: 

• Designing, executing, and analyzing experiments to develop novel etch processes. 
• Driving joint development programs with external partners, focusing on new tool sets, materials, and metrology methodologies. 
• Collaborating cross-functionally with integration, process support, hardware teams, and industrial stakeholders. 
• Communicating results through internal reviews, partner updates, and scientific publications. 
• Monitoring industry trends and translating insights into imec’s research roadmap. 
• Interfacing with device and integration engineers to anticipate future process needs. 
• Coordinating non-standard process work within imec’s 300 mm fab, ensuring smooth transfer to operational teams. 

What we do for you

We offer you the opportunity to join one of the world’s premier research centers in nanotechnology at its headquarters in Leuven, Belgium. With your talent, passion and expertise, you’ll become part of a team that makes the impossible possible. Together, we shape the technology that will determine the society of tomorrow.

We are committed to being an inclusive employer and proud of our open, multicultural, and informal working environment with ample possibilities to take initiative and show responsibility. We commit to supporting and guiding you in this process; not only with words but also with tangible actions. Through imec.academy, 'our corporate university', we actively invest in your development to further your technical and personal growth. 

We are aware that your valuable contribution makes imec a top player in its field. Your energy and commitment are therefore appreciated by means of a market appropriate salary with many fringe benefits. 

Who you are

• You hold a Master’s or PhD degree in Science or Engineering, preferably with a focus on microelectronics, materials science, or a related field. For candidates with a Master’s degree, a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience is required. 
• Familiarity with advanced technologies such as logic, memory, 3D integration, or OIO is a strong plus. 
• You are a motivated and enthusiastic professional, eager to take on technical challenges and deliver high-impact results. 
• You work independently with a strong sense of ownership and attention to quality. 
• You demonstrate excellent planning and organizational skills and can manage multiple priorities efficiently. 
• You are a collaborative team player who communicates effectively and builds strong working relationships across teams and with external partners. 
• Experience in customer or partner interaction is considered an asset. 
• You have strong communication and reporting skills, capable of engaging both technical and non-technical audiences. 
• Given imec’s international environment, fluency in English (spoken and written) is essential. 

IMEC and its affiliates will not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate. IMEC will consider unsolicited referrals and/or resumes submitted by vendors such as search firms, staffing agencies, professional recruiters, fee-based referral services and recruiting agencies (hereafter “Agency”) to have been referred by the Agency free of charge. IMEC will not pay a fee to any Agency that does not have a prior written agreement with IMEC, validated by its HR department, in place regarding a specific job opening and allowing to submit resumes.