Organization Summary

Founded in 1981, Amtech Systems is a publicly traded company (Nasdaq: ASYS) supplying essential equipment, services and consumables to the semiconductor industry.  Our Semiconductor Fabrications Solutions (SFS) business provides consumables, parts and services for power semiconductor and mature node semiconductor OEMS.  Our Thermal Process Solutions (TPS) business provides equipment and services for semiconductor advanced packaging applications, electronic assembly and power semiconductor packaging.  The company manufactures products in several factories in the US and China and serves global customers. 

Summary Objectives

Intersurface Dynamics, Inc. (IDI), an Amtech Company, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Principal Scientist to lead the development of cutting-edge cleaning chemistries and CMP slurries for the semiconductor industry. While IDI is an established company with a strong reputation, this role offers the dynamic and entrepreneurial environment of a start-up, with the opportunity to directly impact product innovation and customer partnerships. You will spearhead the development of novel formulations, working closely with customers to meet their specific needs and driving projects from concept to application and process development.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the development of new cleaning chemistries for the semiconductor market, based on customer specifications and industry requirements.

• Drive the creation of innovative CMP slurries tailored to meet the evolving needs of the semiconductor industry.

• Collaborate with an experienced team, technical development and sales, operating globally (US, Europe, Asia).

• Conduct application and process development to ensure successful implementation of new formulations.

• Work directly with customers in a collaborative R&D environment, fostering strong partnerships and ensuring alignment with their needs.

• Identify and qualify raw material replacements for existing formulas due to obsolescence or regulatory changes.

• Research and implement formula changes to comply with international regulations (e.g., EU, China).

• Provide technical support to customers as needed.

• Interact with lab equipment vendors for maintenance, troubleshooting, and procurement.

• Maintain comprehensive R&D files and documentation.

• Ensure laboratory maintenance and adherence to safety protocols.

• Utilize Design of Experiments (DOE) to optimize formulations and processes.

• Source and partner with suppliers of raw materials/chemicals suitable for high-volume semiconductor manufacturing.

• Oversee scaling of products from lab to manufacturing

Skills/Knowledge/Experience

• Strong background in analytical, organic, and inorganic chemistry.

• Proven expertise in formulating aqueous cleaning chemistries.

• Experience in sourcing and qualifying raw materials/chemicals.

• Proficiency in common industrial analytical techniques (OES, HPLC, liquid-borne particle counters).

• Familiarity with semiconductor industry quality requirements and fabrication processes.

Soft Skills:

• Self-starter with a strong entrepreneurial mindset.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

• Adaptable and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

• Goal-oriented with a focus on delivering results.

Additional skills preferred

Experience in formulating CMP slurries for the semiconductor market.

Knowledge of Design of Experiments (DOE).

Education

• M.S. or Ph.D. in Chemistry or a related field.

• Minimum 5-10 years of industry experience in chemical formulation, preferably within the semiconductor industry. 15+ years preferred.

Travel

Occasional travel to other business sites will be required.

Other duties may be assigned to support the overall business. Amtech Systems has the right to revise and update this job description at any time.