Advanced Processing Cleaning & Contamination Engineer

ASML brings together the most creative minds in science and technology to develop lithography machines that are key to producing faster, cheaper, more energy-efficient microchips. We design, develop, integrate, market and service these advanced machines, which enable our customers - the world’s leading chipmakers - to reduce the size and increase the functionality of their microchips, which in turn leads to smaller, more powerful consumer electronics. Our main headquarters are located in Veldhoven, the Netherlands, and we also have 18 office locations around the United States- including main offices in Wilton, CT, Chandler, AZ, San Jose, CA and San Diego, CA.

As an Advanced Processing Cleaning & Contamination Engineer, you will directly support our mission to enable the world’s most advanced chip manufacturing. You will be a subject-matter expert in precision cleaning, contamination mitigation, and optical cleanliness standards.

In this role, you will work in a dynamic, collaborative environment supporting production teams, development groups, and cross-functional engineering partners to create clean, stable, and highly reliable processes.

Role Overview

The Advanced Processing Cleaning & Contamination Engineer will develop and industrialize precision cleaning processes, reduce particle/molecular contamination risks, and drive continuous improvement for high‑value optical components. You will lead equipment introductions, support contamination test systems, and ensure robust, repeatable cleaning performance in a fast‑paced, high‑tech manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

Technical & Process Responsibilities

• Develop a deep understanding of precision optical cleaning requirements across all relevant departments.
• Evaluate, develop, and optimize chemical and ultrasonic cleaning methods for sensitive optical components.
• Identify common contaminants and implement effective removal strategies.
• Support and improve semiconductor‑grade cleaning technologies and cleanliness standards.
• Support contamination test systems, maintaining procedures, settings, and process improvements.
• Troubleshoot contamination‑related issues and provide support during escalations.
• Analyze process and test data to identify trends, stabilize operations, and reduce variation.
• Contribute to process improvements that enhance productivity and reduce defects.

Documentation & Compliance

• Generate high‑quality technical documentation such as engineering test plans, work instructions, equipment specifications, and qualification reports.
• Maintain documentation for contamination testing, lab processes, and cleaning systems.
• Apply Job Safety Analysis principles and collaborate with EHS to ensure safety and compliance.

Equipment & Project Management

• Lead new equipment projects from specification and vendor engagement through procurement, FAT/SAT, installation, and internal qualification.
• Assist with laboratory activities and support equipment maintenance and calibration.
• Support new product introduction (NPI) through qualification activities and documentation updates.

Collaboration & Cross‑Functional Support

• Collaborate with engineering, operations, and lab teams to maintain stable processes and support daily production needs.
• Support KPI tracking, reporting, and data-driven decision making.
• Engage with cross-functional groups during escalations to diagnose and resolve contamination issues.

Education & Experience

• Master’s degree with 2+ years of relevant experience, or Bachelor's degree with 6+ years of relevant experience in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or related fields.
• Experience in lithography, precision optics, contamination control, surface science, or semiconductor manufacturing highly preferred.
• Strong understanding of chemical cleaning media, material compatibility, reaction mechanisms, and precision cleaning science.
• Experience with automated or semi‑automated cleaning processes for optical components (direct or indirect).
• Experience with manual cleaning processes for optical components.
• Experience with FMEA, control plans, 4C, DMAIC, 8D, or other structured problem-solving frameworks.
• Background in surface science, contamination physics, or thin‑film materials.
• Experience supporting laboratory environments, calibration processes, or metrology equipment.

Competencies

• Communicate clearly across engineering, operations, and cross‑functional teams.
• Analyze data effectively and identify trends using structured problem‑solving methods.
• Work proactively and adapt quickly in a fast‑paced environment.
• Solve technical problems with curiosity, attention to detail, and a systematic approach.
• Organize work logically and manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Follow procedures carefully to maintain a clean, controlled environment.
• Contribute ideas that reduce contamination risk, improve processes, and support continuous improvement.
• Build strong working relationships and support a collaborative team culture.

Additional Skills

• Proficiency with Python, MATLAB, or similar tools for data analysis or automation.
• Experience with SPC, JMP, Minitab, or similar statistical analysis tools.
• Strong skills in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).

You must be work authorized in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship

Additional Responsibilities:

There is potential for exposure to strong magnetic fields, high voltage and currents.

This position requires access to controlled technology, as defined in the United States Export Administration Regulations (15 C.F.R. § 730, et seq.). Qualified candidates must be legally authorized to access such controlled technology prior to beginning work. Business demands may require ASML to proceed with candidates who are immediately eligible to access controlled technology.

Inclusion and diversity

ASML is an Equal Opportunity Employer 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. We recognize that inclusion and diversity is a driving force in the success of our company.

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Request an Accommodation

ASML provides reasonable accommodations to applicants for ASML employment and ASML employees with disabilities.  An accommodation is a change in work rules, facilities, or conditions which enable an individual with a disability to apply for a job, perform the essential functions of a job, and/or enjoy equal access to the benefits and privileges of employment. If you are in need of an accommodation to complete an application, participate in an interview, or otherwise participate in the employee pre-selection process, please send an email to [email protected] to initiate the company’s reasonable accommodation process.

Please note: This email address is solely intended to provide a method for applicants to initiate ASML’s process to request accommodation(s). Any recruitment questions should be directed to the designated Talent Acquisition member for the position.