Senior Process Engineer Lithography | Eindhoven

At the forefront of Europe’s photonics innovation, TNO is building a state-of-the-art pilot line for Indium Phosphide (InP) photonic chips at the High Tech Campus in Eindhoven. As part of the EU-funded PIXEurope program, this pilot line will enable the transition from groundbreaking research to large-scale industrial manufacturing, making advanced photonic technologies faster, more reliable, and widely accessible. To help realize this ambitious step, we are looking for a Senior Process Engineer Lithography. In this role, you will develop, optimize, and industrialize DUV lithography processes that are critical for wafer-scale photonic chip production. With your deep understanding of lithography systems, resist processes, and pattern transfer, you will ensure that innovative research is translated into stable, scalable, and high-yield manufacturing processes.

As Senior Process Engineer Lithography, you are responsible for process development, optimization, and industrialization in a high-tech cleanroom environment. You focus on DUV lithography processes for 6-inch InP wafers, ensuring excellent critical dimension control, overlay performance, and process robustness. By working closely with R&D, equipment engineers, and QA teams, you enable stable production, continuous yield improvement, and the successful introduction of new lithography technologies into the pilot line.

Key responsibilities include:

• Developing, qualifying, and optimizing DUV and i-line lithography processes for 6-inch InP wafer manufacturing.
• Setting up and scaling new lithography processes to industrial-level production, ensuring robustness and reproducibility.
• Analyzing process data, performing root cause analyses, and applying statistical methods such as SPC, FMEA, and DoE.
• Ensuring process stability, CD uniformity, overlay control, and high yield across the lithography module.
• Supporting operators and technicians with process-related issues to ensure smooth continuation of wafer manufacturing.
• Troubleshooting process disruptions and implementing corrective and preventive actions.
• Leading process improvement projects and supporting the introduction of new lithography tools and technologies.
• Collaborating closely in cross-functional teams (R&D, Equipment, QA) and reporting progress to management.
• Creating and maintaining process documentation, work instructions, and best practices.
• Mentoring junior engineers, acting as (acting) cluster lead when needed, and representing process engineering in multidisciplinary forums.

You are a senior process engineer with extensive experience in industrial lithography environments. You combine deep technical expertise with strategic thinking, leadership, and coaching skills. You thrive in a cleanroom setting and are motivated to help shape Europe’s future in integrated photonics. You also bring the following qualifications:

• A PhD, MSc, or BSc degree in physics, materials science, electrical engineering, chemistry, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in semiconductor process engineering, preferably in an industrial wafer fab environment.
• In-depth knowledge of DUV lithography systems and processes.
• Proven experience in setting up and industrializing new lithography processes.
• Strong background in process development, optimization, troubleshooting, and yield improvement.
• Familiarity with statistical process control and characterization methods (SPC, FMEA, DoE).
• Demonstrated leadership experience, for example as cluster lead or acting cluster lead.
• A mentoring and coaching mindset, with the ability to support junior colleagues and guide complex projects.
• A strategic and analytical approach, combined with strong communication and stakeholder management skills.

Challenging and varied work with a real impact. And plenty of opportunities as, at TNO, you are in charge of shaping your career. We offer a gross monthly salary between (based on your knowledge and experience), 8% holiday pay, a 13th month bonus of 8.33% and a flex budget (5.58% + € 180). In addition, you will be given every opportunity to develop yourself.

TNO offers optional employee benefits, enabling you to tailor your benefits package to match your personal situation. You may also expect:

• An extremely professional, innovative working environment where colleagues are leading experts in their field.
• The opportunity to attend courses, workshops and conferences, and to receive training and coaching based on your needs.
• 33 days annual leave on a full-time basis.
• An employer that values and encourages diverse talent, with initiatives like the Female Leadership Program, our Rainbow Community and round tables on inclusion topics.
• We offer a comprehensive and flexible mobility plan that also includes full compensation for public transportation for commuting and business travel.
• Great social events with your team and other TNO colleagues. That’s how you will get to know a lot of people really quickly.
• Flexible working hours, the possibility to work parttime (32 of 36 hours) and the possibility of working from home.
• Extensive relocation package for international candidates.
• A good pension scheme.

Read more about tailoring your benefits package.

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world. Read more about TNO as an employer.

At TNO we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society. Want to know more? Read what steps we are taking in the area of diversity, equity and inclusion.

Please apply before the 11th of January, 2026. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. In a final meeting we will discuss the terms of employment and your tailored benefits package. We aim to finalize the entire process within four weeks.

The selection process may include an online assessment and a reference check.
A certificate of Conduct (VOG) is required before starting a new job at TNO.