Develop and optimize advanced surface cleaning, conditioning, and atomic layer etching (ALE) processes to improve recording head topography and enable ADC/ CFR performance gains. Investigate ultra-thin-film coatings and engineered interfaces with emphasis on adhesion, surface energetics, contamination behavior, and interfacial stability. Design and execute experiments using DOE, statistical analysis, and data-driven methodologies to understand interactions among surface chemistry, precursor behavior, and process conditions. Support development and integration of advanced processes including IBD, IBE, ALD, and ALE, with focus on precursor–surface interactions and the impact of upstream surface preparation on downstream process performance. Utilize advanced analytical and surface characterization techniques such as XPS, XRF, AFM, and related metrology methods to evaluate chemistry, contamination, morphology, and interface quality. Lead and support cross-functional process integration activities to ensure successful module interaction, process robustness, and transfer into manufacturing environments. Perform structured root-cause investigations of yield, defectivity, reliability, and contamination issues using FMEA and systematic engineering approaches. Collaborate with equipment vendors and chemical suppliers on process development, troubleshooting, tool qualification, and capability expansion. Contribute to the development of new process concepts and technical innovations in surface science, precursor chemistry, contamination control, and advanced cleanroom processing aligned with future technology roadmaps. Partner closely with global engineering and manufacturing teams, including process transfer and technical collaboration with teams in Asia. About you: Strong foundation in surface science, interface chemistry, and materials fundamentals, with the ability to connect first principles understanding to engineering execution. Demonstrated ability to apply scientific fundamentals to complex process development and integration challenges. Experience or strong technical interest in ALD/ ALE chemistry, including precursor interactions, surface reactions, and process impacts on thin-film and interface quality. Familiarity with advanced surface characterization and metrology techniques, with the ability to critically interpret data and drive engineering decisions. Self-motivated and capable of independently driving technical investigations in a highly collaborative environment. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a passion for innovation and development of new process concepts. Effective communicator capable of translating complex technical findings into actionable engineering direction. Comfortable working across global teams and supporting process transfer into manufacturing operations. Your experience includes: Industry or research experience in surface science, interface engineering, thin-film processing, or wet chemical processing. Exposure to or hands-on experience with ALD, ALE, or related thin-film deposition and etch technologies, including precursor chemistry and surface reactions. Experience with advanced characterization and metrology techniques such as: XPS (X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy) XRF (X-ray Fluorescence) AFM (Atomic Force Microscopy) Experience designing and analyzing experiments using DOE, statistical methodologies, and data-driven process optimization approaches. Exposure to cleanroom process integration and manufacturing environments, including technology transfer to production. Bachelor’s degree in engineering related field (i.e. Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical, Computer Engineering, Materials, Physics, or Information Technology) and 5 years of experience or master’s degree in the same and 3 years’ experience or PhD and 0 years’ experience or equivalent experience and education. You Might Also Have: Experience collaborating with equipment vendors or chemical suppliers for process development, troubleshooting, and qualification. Familiarity with precursor synthesis, formulation chemistry, or advanced chemical delivery systems. Experience with contamination control, nano-contamination mitigation, or defectivity reduction in high-precision manufacturing environments. Experience supporting or collaborating with manufacturing teams in Asia. Demonstrated innovation through patents, publications, technical leadership, or development of impactful process technologies. The estimated base salary range for this position is $92,310.00 - $131,994.00. The individual salary is based on work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Seagate offers comprehensive benefits to its eligible employees, including, but not limited to, eligibility to participate in discretionary bonus program, medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, short-and long-term disability, 401(k), employee stock purchase plan, health savings account, dependent care, and healthcare spending accounts. Seagate also offers paid time off, including 12 holidays, flexible time off provided pursuant to Seagate policy, a minimum of 48 hours of paid sick leave, and 16 weeks of paid parental leave. The benefits for this position are based on a full-time schedule for a full calendar year and may differ depending on work location.