NC State College of Engineering ยท 3 months ago
CLAWS III-N Power Integration Engineer
North Carolina State University is leading a $39.4 million initiative to establish the Microelectronics Commons regional innovation hub, focusing on wide bandgap semiconductors. They are seeking a Wide-Bandgap Power Device Engineer to develop next-generation power semiconductor devices, requiring expertise in semiconductor process integration and device design.
Higher Education
Responsibilities
Design and optimize GaN power devices (HEMTs, Diodes, lateral/vertical FETs) for high-voltage and high-frequency applications
Utilize TCAD simulation (e.g., Synopsys, Silvaco, etc.) for process and device modeling, electrical characteristics prediction, and performance enhancement
Develop and refine device layouts for wafer fabrication, ensuring manufacturability and reliability
Work to define and optimize GaN-on GaN, GaN-on-Si, GaN-on-SiC, and other heteroepitaxial structures for power applications
Lead the wafer process flow development, including epi structures, etching, metallization, and passivation steps
Troubleshoot process integration challenges related to defectivity, yield, and reliability
Define and execute device characterization plans (IV, CV, breakdown, leakage, switching performance)
Analyze reliability metrics such as TDDB, HTRB, HTOL, and step-stress testing to assess long-term device stability
Interface with packaging and application engineers to optimize thermal management and electrical performance in real-world applications
Work with process engineers and R&D partners to drive technology improvements
Collaborate with circuit designers, applications engineers, and product development teams to translate device-level improvements into system-level advantages
Stay up to date with emerging GaN technology trends, competitive landscape, and industry benchmarks
Comply with stated workplace policies
Communicate results, plans, and other updates to a variety of audiences
Adhere to and mentor others in known best practices
Support CLAWS activities such as tours, meetings, and conferences
Qualification
Required
Ph.D. or M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field with a focus on power semiconductor devices
3+ years of experience in GaN power device design and process integration (industry or research)
A track record of publications in high-quality journals and/or conferences
Experience characterizing high-power semiconductor devices and extracting relevant device parameters
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to multitask and meet deadlines with moderate supervision
Ability to follow safe procedures for working with semiconductor fabrication equipment, chemicals, and compressed gas cylinders
Comfort in collaborating with students, faculty, and staff of varying experience and backgrounds
Strong background in semiconductor physics, TCAD simulation, and electrical characterization
Hands-on experience with semiconductor process integration, fabrication, and failure analysis
Familiarity with GaN E-mode, D-mode, lateral vs. vertical device structures, and reliability challenges
Eligibility to obtain clearance upon request of the US government
Preferred
TCAD device modeling
Additional characterization of materials and devices, including failure analysis, defect inspection, radiation effects, and high-k dielectrics
Fabrication of semiconductor devices for high-power applications
Lithography mask layout
MES and SPC systems
Statistical methods (e.g., DOE, GR&R) and tools (e.g., JMP, Minitab)
Power electronics applications (high-voltage converters, automotive, RF, or data centers)
Packaging constraints and thermal management for GaN devices
Benefits
Medical, Dental, and Vision
Flexible Spending Account
Retirement Programs
Disability Plans
Life Insurance
Accident Plan
Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
12 Holidays Each Year
Tuition and Academic Assistance
Childcare benefits
Wellness & Recreation Membership
Wellness Programs
Company
NC State College of Engineering
The College of Engineering at North Carolina State University is a leading research, teaching and outreach engineering and computer science college offering 18 bachelor's, 17 master's and 13 doctoral degree programs, along with 16 online engineering master's degrees.
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageCompany data provided by crunchbase