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PVD Operator
Emeryville, California
Atomic Machines is ushering in a new era of micromanufacturing with its Matter Compiler™ technology platform. This platform enables new classes of micromachines to be designed and built by providing manufacturing processes and a materials library that are inaccessible to semiconductor manufacturing methods. It unlocks MEMS manufacturing not only for device classes that could never be produced by semiconductor methods, but also for entirely new categories. Furthermore, this digital platform is fully programmable in the way 3D printing is digital—but whereas 3D printing produces parts of a single material using a single process, the Matter Compiler™ technology platform is a multi-process, multi-material system: bits and raw materials go in, and complete, functional micromachines come out. The Atomic Machines team has also created an exciting first device—made possible only through the Matter Compiler™ technology platform—that we will be unveiling to the world soon.
Our offices are in Emeryville and Santa Clara, California.
About The Role:
We are seeking a hands-on Technician with PVD or high vacuum system experience to support thin-film coating operations for production. This role requires someone skilled in running repeatable, high-quality deposition processes.
What You’ll Do:
- Operate and monitor PVD systems (sputtering, evaporation, or other vacuum deposition equipment) for production builds.
- Prepare substrates, tooling, and fixtures for deposition processes.
- Run established thin-film recipes for production lots.
- Log process data, track deviations, report issues and support root cause analysis for equipment or process issues.
- Use thin-film characterization tools (e.g., profilometry, XRF) to assess film thickness, uniformity, and quality.
- Maintain accurate records of recipes, runs, and material traceability in line with internal QA standards.
- Uphold strict cleanroom, ESD, and vacuum safety protocols at all times.
What You’ll Need:
- 1–3 years of experience with thin-film deposition, vacuum systems, or semiconductor processes.
- Comfort working in a cleanroom environment with full PPE.
- Familiarity with vacuum pumps, gauges, gas systems, and plasma-based processes.
- Clear communication skills and disciplined recordkeeping.
- Ability to collaborate cross-functionally
- Ability to lift up to 30 pounds, stand for extended periods during equipment operation, and occasionally work off-shift or weekend hours to support builds.
- Associate degree, technical diploma, or equivalent experience in Materials Science, Electronics, Vacuum Technology, or related field.
- [Bonus] Knowledge of deposition variables such as power, pressure, gas flow, and film stress.
- [Bonus] Ability to train junior technicians and contribute to protocol development.
The compensation for this position also includes equity and benefits.
Salary Range
$35 - $50 USD
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