Job Description

Description

We are seeking an experienced and innovative Team Lead for Films Technology to drive the development, optimisation, and integration of thin-film processes for advanced MicroLED display devices. This role oversees end-to-end technology development, including epitaxial layers, passivation films, optical coatings, buffer layers, and functional thin films critical to MicroLED performance, yield, and reliability. The ideal candidate has strong technical depth in semiconductor materials and thin-film engineering, along with proven leadership experience in guiding cross-functional teams.

Key Responsibilities

Drive process innovation to enhance device efficiency, reliability, uniformity, and surface quality. Take ownership of deposition process modules (PVD, ALD, PECVD, sputtering, evaporation, plating) and ensure stable, high-quality film performance. Work closely with epitaxy, device, and integration teams to define film requirements and deliver optimised stack architectures. Establish and refine process windows through DOE, SPC, and data-led analysis. Identify and resolve thin-film defect mechanisms such as particles, stress, adhesion, moisture ingress, and interface issues. Support reliability engineering by assessing film stability under thermal, optical, electrical, and environmental stress. Utilise advanced metrology (SEM, TEM, AFM, ellipsometry, XRR, XPS, SIMS, etc.) to ensure film quality and process control. Act as Tool Owner for assigned equipment, maintaining tool performance, uptime, safety, and accurate documentation. Lead continuous improvement initiatives to reduce downtime, enhance tool capability, and troubleshoot complex tool or process issues. Provide day-to-day leadership to the module team, including line management of Apprentices, Graduates, Engineers, and Senior Engineers. Conduct performance reviews, set objectives, and support the technical and professional development of team members. Oversee resource planning to ensure effective deployment of personnel, equipment, and expertise across projects. Collaborate with the Module Manager to align team activities with broader project and company objectives

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

Master's or PhD in Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related discipline. Significant industry experience (7+ years) in thin-film engineering within the semiconductor industry. Practical expertise in thin-film deposition (PVD, ALD, PECVD, MOCVD, sputtering, evaporation). Strong background in microfabrication and device process integration. Proven experience leading engineers, projects, or technical teams. Demonstrated tool ownership. Strong technical judgement and decision-making skills. Effective cross-functional communication and collaboration Excellent problem-solving skills, particularly in ambiguous or fast-moving environments. Ability to prioritise and deliver within tight development cycles. Strategic thinker with the ability to plan roadmaps and guide technology direction Previous line management or leadership experience would be an advantage.

Benefits

Pension scheme Private medical & dental insurance 28 days' holiday + bank holidays Free onsite meals Onsite gym Relocation support Visa support available

About Plessey

Plessey has a long history of innovation. Founded in 1956, we have evolved from one of Europe's earliest semiconductor pioneers into the world's most advanced MicroLED specialist. Over the decades, Plessey has built a first class, fully integrated platform designing, manufacturing, and engineering next-generation display technologies entirely in-house. This end to end capability, combined with our strong IP portfolio, uniquely positions us to lead the scaling of MicroLEDs from lab innovation to high-volume production.

Our future is even brighter. We believe MicroLEDs will define the next era of technology--powering ultra-efficient AR/VR displays, driving optical processors that make AI faster and more sustainable, and enabling devices yet to be imagined. With our unique expertise and talented team, we are positioned to lead this transformation.

It's an exciting time to join us: Plessey has recently been acquired by Haylo Labs, accelerating our growth and opening new opportunities.Innovation Collaboration Commitment * Care