Lead Engineer, Lithography

Job Description

Job Title: Lead Engineer, Lithography. Location: Fremont, CA, USA

Responsibilities:

• Serve as the technical authority for the lithography patterning ecosystem.
• Architect and optimize the lithography “wet” process framework to translate quantum chip designs into physical hardware.
• Collaborate with E-beam lithography (EBL) hardware experts to optimize beam-resist interactions.
• Provide technical leadership for track systems and optical lithography modules;
• Define and drive the lithography and metrology roadmap for scalable qubit manufacturing.
• Develop and optimize resist processes including CAR/non-CAR chemistry, reaction kinetics, CD control, and overlay management.
• Implement and manage statistical process control (SPC), design of experiments (DOE), GR&R, and root-cause analysis frameworks.
• Build diagnostic and analytical frameworks using statistical tools such as JMP;
• Translate R&D processes into scalable manufacturing workflows, SOPs, and technical specifications.
• Operate and optimize lithography equipment including track systems, projection steppers, contact aligners, and maskless aligners.
• Lead process strategy development and execution across lithography modules.
• Mentor junior engineers while maintaining hands-on technical involvement.
• Ensure compliance with cleanroom protocols including HAZMAT and ESD standards.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. with 7+ years or M.S. with 10+ years of experience in lithography process development and integration.
• Degree in Physics, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong hands-on expertise in lithography processes including resist chemistry, reaction kinetics, CD control, and overlay management.
• Expertise in SPC, DOE, GR&R, and root-cause analysis.
• Proficiency with statistical tools such as JMP or similar software;
• Experience developing scalable process frameworks and technical specifications.
• Hands-on experience with lithography systems including track tools, projection steppers, contact aligners, and maskless aligners.
• Proven ability to lead technical strategy and manage ambiguity.
• Strong leadership and mentoring skills;
• Ability to work in cleanroom environments with strict protocols.

Preferred:

• Experience working with E-beam lithography systems and resist/process optimization.
• Knowledge of proximity effect correction (PEC), dose optimization, and multi-layer resist stacks.
• Experience managing charging and thermal stability challenges on non-standard substrates.
• Experience with DUV (KrF/ArF) or i-line projection lithography in production environments;
• Familiarity with ultrasonic spray-coating systems and lithography on complex surfaces.
• Experience developing hybrid optical and e-beam lithography workflows.
• Background in quantum, MEMS, or photonics fabrication environments.

Benefits and Compensation:

• Salary range: $165,000 – $205,000 per year.
• Competitive compensation based on experience, skills, and location.
• Equity opportunities.
• Comprehensive healthcare including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Paid parental leave program;
• Rejuvenation days and vacation aligned with local regulations and industry standards.

Other Information:

• Opportunity to lead one of the most critical modules in quantum hardware manufacturing.
• Play a key role in scaling qubit production from R&D to full manufacturing.
• Work in a highly collaborative environment with leading experts in quantum computing.
• Rigetti is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion;
• AI tools may be used in parts of the hiring process, but final decisions are made by humans.