Senior Surface Chemistry & Interface Engineer (Materials Science)

TL;DR

Senior Surface Chemistry & Interface Engineer (Materials Science): Developing and optimizing advanced surface cleaning, atomic layer etching, and thin-film integration for recording head fabrication with an accent on interface stability and contamination control. Focus on utilizing XPS, AFM, and DOE to drive performance gains in high-volume manufacturing.

Location: Onsite in Bloomington/Normandale, MN, United States

Salary: $92,310 - $131,994

Company

hirify.global is a global leader in data storage solutions, specializing in precision-engineered recording head technologies.

What you will do

• Develop and optimize surface cleaning, conditioning, and atomic layer etching (ALE) processes to improve topography.
• Investigate ultra-thin-film coatings, focusing on adhesion, surface energetics, and interfacial stability.
• Design and execute experiments using DOE and statistical analysis to understand precursor behavior.
• Utilize advanced analytical techniques such as XPS, XRF, and AFM to evaluate interface quality and contamination.
• Lead cross-functional process integration to ensure robustness and successful transfer into manufacturing.
• Perform structured root-cause investigations of yield and reliability issues using FMEA.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering field (Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical, Materials, Physics, or IT) with 5+ years of experience, Master's with 3+ years, or a PhD.
• Strong foundation in surface science, interface chemistry, and materials fundamentals.
• Experience with ALD, ALE, or related thin-film deposition and etch technologies.
• Proficiency in surface characterization metrology, specifically XPS, XRF, and AFM.
• Experience designing and analyzing experiments using DOE and data-driven optimization.
• Must be based in or be able to work onsite in Bloomington, MN.

Nice to have

• Experience collaborating with equipment vendors or chemical suppliers for process qualification.
• Familiarity with precursor synthesis or advanced chemical delivery systems.
• Background in nano-contamination mitigation in high-precision manufacturing environments.
• Experience collaborating with manufacturing teams in Asia.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Financial perks: 401(k), employee stock purchase plan, HSA, and healthcare spending accounts.
• Generous paid time off: 12 holidays, flexible time off, and 16 weeks of paid parental leave.
• On-site facilities: Fully equipped fitness center, wellness programs, and an on-site café.
• Supportive environment with meditation rooms and indoor walking paths.