Senior Engineer - Surface Chemist (Materials Science)

TL;DR

Senior Engineer - Surface Chemist (Materials Science): Developing novel chemical processing methods for integrating metal and dielectric thin film structures into nanometer-scale head devices with an accent on wet etch, surface preparation, and interface chemical processing. Focus on characterizing reaction mechanisms, adhesion behavior, and ensuring stable operation of new materials under device conditions.

Location: On-site in Bloomington, MN, US

Salary: $92,310 - $131,996

Company

hirify.global is a global leader in data storage devices, specializing in the R&D of advanced recording head technologies for HDDs.

What you will do

• Develop robust and manufacturable chemical processing methods for integrating thin film structures into nanometer-scale devices.
• Investigate wet etch, surface preparation, and interface chemical processing to ensure stable material operation.
• Perform chemical and surface characterization to analyze reaction mechanisms and adhesion behavior.
• Collaborate with unit process owners (lithography, deposition, etch) to achieve prototype wafer build flows.
• Partner with equipment suppliers to define hardware requirements for novel chemical processing.
• Contribute to the company's IP portfolio through patents, invention disclosures, and peer-reviewed articles.

Requirements

• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or Electrical Engineering (0-2 years industry experience) OR MS degree with 5+ years of industry experience.
• Strong hands-on experience in surface and interface science, including wet-etching and surface modification.
• Expertise in characterization techniques such as AFM, XPS, SEM, (S)TEM, and IR-spectroscopy.
• Knowledge of statistical experimentation methods, including DOE and ANOVA (familiarity with JMP or R preferred).
• Ability to work in both clean room and laboratory environments.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive health package: medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Financial security via 401(k), employee stock purchase plan, and health savings accounts.
• Paid time off including 12 holidays, flexible time off, and 16 weeks of paid parental leave.
• On-site amenities including a café, fitness center, wellness programs, and meditation rooms.