R&D Process Engineer

Next Energy Technologies (NEXT), a startup developing semi-transparent photovoltaic windows, seeks a highly motivated R&D Process Engineer to join their Engineering team. This role will focus on transitioning R&D efforts to pilot and full-scale manufacturing. NEXT offers exceptional opportunities and an exciting work environment centered on excellence, creativity, optimism, and empathy.

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Santa Barbara, CA

Basic Job Functions:

We are looking for a Process Engineer to lead the development and scale-up of solution-processed thin-film photovoltaic devices. This role will focus on translating lab-scale fabrication methods into robust, repeatable, and scalable processes suitable for early pilot line manufacturing. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in solution-based thin-film deposition techniques, process optimization, and cross-functional collaboration with materials scientists, equipment engineers, and manufacturing teams.

This role requires high levels of technical skill, creativity, adaptability, attention to detail, organization, and communication to work with internal cross-functional teams and facilitate the development of our semi-transparent organic photovoltaic windows. The ideal candidate will be able to design and execute clear and logical experiments to efficiently understand process issues and orchestrate improvements.

Responsibilities:

• Develop, optimize, and document existing slot-die coating deposition processes for thin-film device fabrication.
• Scale up fabrication processes from lab scale (e.g., small substrates) to pilot line tools, ensuring consistent performance between phases.
• Collaborate with R&D teams to understand materials and device requirements, translating them into scalable process parameters.
• Design and execute experiments to improve process yield, reproducibility, and throughput.
• Evaluate, document, and communicate results with team members and stakeholders.
• Perform root cause analysis and determine failure modes related to coating process outputs.
• Implement in-line and off-line metrology and characterization techniques to monitor, control, and improve process quality.
• Provide equipment support to existing coating tools.
• Specify and support the procurement, installation, and operation of process equipment for early-stage pilot manufacturing.
• Generate detailed work instructions, process flow diagrams, and documentation to support technology transfer to production teams.
• Work in a team with other R&D engineers, scientists and technicians.

Desired Qualities & Qualifications:

• Education: B.S. or M.S. degree in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, Engineering or related discipline.
• +3 years relevant field experience.
• Must be a US Citizen or Permanent Resident.
• Strong problem-solving and data analysis skills; experience with statistical tools (e.g., JMP, Minitab) is a plus.
• Familiarity with solution-phase thin film deposition techniques (spin coating, inkjet printing, slot-die coating, etc.)
• Knowledge of drying/annealing dynamics, film uniformity control, and surface/interface engineering.
• Experience with thin-film and semiconductor characterization techniques such as SEM, AFM, profilometry, four point probe, and optical spectroscopy.
• Experience with precision scientific equipment.
• Experience with installing, maintaining and repairing scientific equipment.
• Experience in a laboratory environment.
• Experience working in a cleanroom environment
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs and work in a standing position for extended periods of time.
• Attention to detail and accuracy required.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must be hands on and hardware comfortable.
• Well organized and able to handle concurrent project tasks
• Good dexterity to work with small components.
• Must interface successfully with engineers and personnel of other disciplines.

Salary/Benefits:

$90-$125k, includes a generous and competitive benefits package.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: Next Energy Technologies, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) that values and respects the importance of a diverse and inclusive workforce. It is the policy of the company to recruit, hire, train and promote persons in all job titles without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $90,000.00 - $125,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person