Research Council Officer, Semiconductor Lithography

The role

We are looking for a Research Council Officer, Semiconductor Lithography to support the Advanced Technology Fabrication (ATF) facility at the Quantum Nanotechnology Research Centre. The Research Council Officer would be someone who shares our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect and Creativity.

Working with clients and partners, the National Research Council Canada provides strategic research, innovation support, scientific, and technical services to develop and deploy solutions to meet Canada’s current and future industrial and societal needs. The ATF offers our clients and partners access to cutting-edge semiconductor research and fabrication capabilities providing simulation, design, fabrication, testing, characterization, and prototyping. Bringing cutting edge research to the benefit of Canadian society and industries. 

The key activities of the Research Council Officer, Semiconductor Lithography are:

• Perform the role of lithography engineering prime for Ebeam lithography tools and processes, including operation and verification of the tools, assisting in maintenance and training of users;
• Perform the creation and verification of pattern data files and tool-specific operation files for use on “direct write” systems;
• Develop and optimize new lithography processes (coating, exposure, development, inspection and metrology);
• Collaborate to establish and validate “Lithography process blocks” which may include subsequent processing steps (deposition and/or etch);
• Provide expert advice and guidance to researchers looking to incorporate ebeam lithography into their device layout designs.

Screening criteria

Applicants must demonstrate within the content of their application that they meet the following screening criteria in order to be given further consideration as candidates:

Education

Master’s degree in Physical, Chemical or Materials Sciences or equivalent engineering disciplines.

A Bachelor’s degree in the same fields would also be considered.

For information on certificates and diplomas issued abroad, please see Degree equivalency

Experience

• Significant recent* hands-on experience in a semiconductor fabrication environment;
• Significant recent * hands-on experience in semiconductor lithography tools, process development and optimization;
• Significant recent* hands-on experience in the operation and programming of e-beam lithography tools, and;
• Hands on experience with Raith EBL system would be considered an asset.

*Significant recent experience is defined as of least two (2) years experience gained within the last 5 years.

Condition of employment

 Reliability Status

For a Reliability Status, verification of background information over a period of 5 years is required.

Language requirements

English

Information on language requirements and self-assessment tests

Assessment criteria

Candidates will be assessed on the basis of the following criteria:

Technical competencies

• Solid knowledge of lithography principles, processes (coating, exposure, development), and characterization techniques;
• Demonstrated ability in the qualification and maintenance of lithography tools and processes (such as resist coaters, developers and ebeam systems);
• Demonstrated ability in the operation and programming of e-beam lithography tools;
• Demonstrated ability to integrate lithography patterning steps into complex process blocks in the fabrication of semiconductor-based devices, and;
• Solid knowledge of safe working practices in a semiconductor device fabrication environment; including working with chemicals, compressed gases, liquid nitrogen, and electrical, mechanical and vacuum systems. 

Behavioural competencies

Competency Profile(s)

For this position, the NRC will evaluate candidates using the following competency profile: Research

View all competency profiles

Compensation

This position is classified as a Research Council Officer (RCO), a group that is unique to the NRC. Candidates are remunerated based on their expertise, outcomes and impacts of their previous work experience relative to the requirements of the level. The salary scale for this group is vast, from $64,739 to $183,010 per annum, which permits for employees of all levels from new graduates to world renowned experts to be fairly compensated for their contributions.

NOTE: Please note that the full RO/RCO salary scale has five levels. Salary determination will be based on a review of the candidate’s expertise, outcomes and impacts of their previous work experience relative to the requirements of the level.  As such, the initial salary could be within another level of the RO/RCO salary scale (i.e. above or below the intended level for this position).

NRC employees enjoy a wide-range of competitive benefits including a robust pension plan, comprehensive health and dental coverage, disability and life insurance, office closure at the end of December, and additional supports to enhance your well-being throughout your career and beyond.

Discover the possible

Anything is possible at the NRC, named in 2025 one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People, Top Employer in the National Capital Region and Forbes Canada’s Best Employers!

As Canada’s largest research and innovation organization, our world-renowned research pushes the boundaries of science and engineering to make the impossible, possible. Every day we explore new ideas through innovative research and help companies discover possibilities that impact Canada’s future and the world.

At the NRC, you’ll also discover new possibilities. Our supportive workplace fosters a culture of creativity, welcoming fresh perspectives and innovation at all levels. We value teamwork. You’ll collaborate across multiple fields and with the brightest minds to find creative solutions. Most importantly, you’ll discover what’s possible within you as you grow, make valuable contributions and progress in your professional journey. From ground-breaking discoveries to a life-changing career, discover your possible at the NRC.

Notes

• Relocation assistance will be determined in accordance with the NRC's directives.
• ​A pre-qualified list may be established for similar positions for a one year period.
• Preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada. Please include citizenship information in your application.
• The incumbent must adhere to safe workplace practices at all times.
• We thank all those who apply, however only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.