Senior Etch Process Engineer

• 05 August 2026 • 100% • Indefinite duration • Rouges-Terres 61, 2068 Hauterive NE Focuslight Switzerland is one of the leading manufacturers of high-end micro-optics. We have over 20 years of experience in the fields of optical design, microfabrication, and metrology. Our micro-optical components meet the highest requirements for applications in photolithography, optical networks, medicine, and metrology. To allow us to integrate latest-generation technology more quickly, we are looking for a Senior Etch Process Engineer The position will be a subject matter expert on etched optics at the corporate research and development level. The Senior Etch Process Engineer will lead the practical development and fabrication of high-performance etched optics within state-of-the-art cleanroom facilities. The candidate will participate in and have the opportunity to take charge of establishing a new product pilot line, contribute to strategic R&D initiatives, and strengthen Focuslight's capabilities in etched optics to expand and improve the company's product portfolio. A main task consists of transforming conceptual optical designs into functional and manufacturable products by advancing etched optics processing capabilities, while implementing robust quality control measures throughout the process. This role offers a unique opportunity to become an influential leader at Focuslight by strengthening Focuslight's competitiveness in the global etched optics market. Job responsibilities In more detail, the Senior Etch Process Engineer must, • Lead the development and fabrication of high-end etched optics products on the pilot production line. • Design, develop, and validate process flows adapted to the requirements of optical products, ensuring manufacturability and performance. • Manage the complete product lifecycle - from conceptual optical design to functional product. • Work with the production team as a single team to resolve process issues in mass production and implement new processing capabilities developed on the pilot line to improve product optical performance or reduce production costs. • Strategically leverage global internal and external resources to provide competitive optical solutions in a dynamic market, with a strong focus on rapid and successful execution. • Create and maintain comprehensive technical documentation to support process development, product qualification, and knowledge transfer. • Provide practical support to R&D activities in the Focuslight cleanroom facility in Hauterive, contributing to innovation and continuous improvement. • Build and manage a new product pilot line bridging R&D development and production. Key skills • Have the ideas, methodology, and sense of responsibility necessary to build the team and capabilities to become the best in etched optics production. • Have a "fail fast, fail cheap" mentality to quickly identify the optimal solution. • Goal-oriented and autonomous, with a strong sense of commitment and responsibility. • Proactive and innovative spirit, constantly seeking improvements and new solutions. • Excellent technical and analytical skills, with the ability to understand and solve complex problems. • Experience in collaborative project environments, integrating diverse skills. • Capable of planning and executing experiments combining multiple technological platforms. Professional skills • B.Sc., M.Sc. or Ph.D. in microtechnology, physics, optics, electrical engineering, or related fields. • Practical industrial experience in the microfabrication of etched silicon and fused silica lenses, with required expertise in dry etching and photolithography. • Deep theoretical knowledge of micro- and nanofabrication technologies. • Mastery of metrology and characterization techniques for micro- and nanostructures. • Basic understanding of optics and photonics. • Experience in solving problems related to dry etching, such as etch pit removal and deterministic control of etched surface shapes. • Experience in large-scale production in the optics, CMOS, or MEMS industries. • Experience in monitoring and controlling selectivity and etch rate is an advantage. • Familiarity with industrial quality standards such as ISO 9001 and ISO 10110 is a plus. • Mastery of English required; mastery of French and German is considered an asset. We offer • A dynamic and flexible working environment with an emphasis on work-life balance. • A global and multicultural corporate culture. • A key role in directing and driving the development of etched optics, with clear opportunities for career progression towards an influential leader position at Focuslight. Workplace: Focuslight Switzerland (2068 Hauterive). Working hours: Flexible, in laboratory and office.