Senior Microfabrication Engineer (Photolithography)

About Syenta

Syenta is pioneering a new era in semiconductor manufacturing with our groundbreaking Localised Electrochemical Manufacturing (LEM) technology. Our platform enables advanced packaging by combining patterning and metallisation into a single tool. We achieve high-speed, high-resolution metallisation at lower costs and energy use, while minimising emissions and waste.

Founded in Australia, we are building a world-class team of engineers and scientists tackling some of the toughest challenges in semiconductor manufacturing. Our collaborative, people-first culture empowers individuals to take ownership, innovate, and deliver breakthrough results.

About the Role

We are seeking a Senior Microfabrication Engineer to join our growing and dynamic team. In this high-impact role, you will apply your experience in semiconductor microfabrication to develop and manufacture critical parts of Syenta’s localised electrodeposition process. This role requires a hands-on approach to microfabrication and characterisation.

You will:

• Develop and improve process flows for the fabrication of Syenta’s LEM stamps
• Push the boundaries of what is possible with microfabrication for high-resolution stamping processes
• Manufacture prototype LEM stamps to support the development of mechanical, mechatronic, and software systems
• Work closely with cross-functional teams including materials scientists, chemists, and engineers to build a fully integrated world-class product
• Work with national and international commercial fabs to transfer the processes you develop into industrial manufacturing

About You

You are an experienced microfabrication engineer who thrives in a hands-on laboratory environment tackling complex, multi-variable technical challenges. You are comfortable working across the full fabrication stack — from lithography and etch through to characterisation and process transfer.

You are rigorous in your experimental approach, precise in your documentation, and confident translating lab-scale results into scalable processes. You bring strong intuition for troubleshooting process failures and a genuine drive to push the resolution and performance limits of microfabrication.

You are collaborative by nature and enjoy working closely with engineers, scientists, and external partners to deliver an integrated, world-class product. You take ownership of your work and operate effectively with minimal supervision.

Roles and Responsibilities

Process Development & Fabrication

• Develop and refine photolithography-based process flows for fabrication of LEM stamps
• Push the boundaries of high-resolution microfabrication and stamping processes
• Develop tool and material-specific recipes for high aspect ratio structures
• Manufacture prototype components to support mechanical, mechatronic, and software systems

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate closely within and across teams to develop stamps
• Work closely with materials scientists, chemists, and engineers to deliver an integrated product
• Support transfer of developed processes to national and international commercial fabs
• Ensure clear, timely, and well-documented engagement with external suppliers
• Liaise with external fabs to ensure on-time delivery of stamps to meet company goals

Characterisation & Analysis

• Perform metrology and inspection to assess process quality and reproducibility
• Analyse experimental data and translate findings into process improvements

Innovation & Continuous Improvement

• Explore new lithography and fabrication techniques to improve resolution and performance
• Contribute to continuous improvement of fabrication workflows and process capability

Ownership & Impact

• Works independently with minimal supervision
• Takes initiative on projects without prompting
• Makes decisions that positively impact team goals
• Contributes to planning and execution of team objectives

Required Experience

• Bachelor, Master of Research, or Ph.D. with proven research experience in STEM
• Experience working within semiconductor industry with a minimum of 8 years experience
• Experience with DWL, MLA, mask aligner, and EBL
• Experience working with lithography processes and materials (e.g. SU-8, AZ resist, and dry film resist)
• Experience working with direct write laser and direct exposure systems
• Experience with wet etching processes (e.g. BOE, Piranha)
• Experience with advanced packaging techniques such as wafer bonding and die bonding
• Experience with nano-imprint lithography or hot embossing
• Experience working with commercial semiconductor fabs

Why Choose Syenta?

We’re passionate about building a diverse, people-first company. Our culture of collaboration and mutual respect fuels innovation capable of redefining an industry. At Syenta, you’ll have the opportunity to take ownership, contribute to high-impact teams, and shape the future of semiconductor manufacturing.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary
• Early-stage equity opportunities
• 12% superannuation contributions
• Flexible leave policies and a strong work-life balance
• Professional growth in a high-impact, fast-growing deep-tech startup
• Team events and collaborative culture, including company-wide gatherings across Australia
• We welcome applications from candidates currently located both within Australia and internationally. Relocation assistance and visa sponsorship are available.