Manager - Sputter Engineering

Position Summary

The Sputter Asset & Materials Manager is responsible for leading the team that manages sputter targets and shields throughout their lifecycle, including receiving, inventory control, loading/unloading, reclaim activities, and cost optimization. This role works closely with Operations, Engineering, Maintenance, and suppliers to ensure material availability, maximize target utilization, and reduce overall sputtering costs.

Key Responsibilities

Team Leadership

• Lead, supervise, and develop a team of technicians.
• Establish work priorities and ensure daily activities are executed safely and efficiently.
• Provide coaching, training, and performance management for team members.
• Drive continuous improvement and operational excellence within the team.

Sputter Target Management

• Manage sputter target inventory to ensure adequate supply and accurate stock control.
• Oversee sputter target receiving, storage, loading, and unloading activities.
• Ensure compliance with target handling procedures and quality requirements.
• Coordinate target replacement activities to support production schedules.

Rework and Reclaim Management

• Manage sputter target rework activities, including sand blasting and other refurbishment processes.
• Coordinate target reclaim activities with suppliers and external partners.
• Track target utilization and reclaim recovery to maximize material value.
• Drive improvements to reduce target waste and increase reclaim efficiency.

Shield Reclaim Management

• Manage sputter shield collection, segregation, and reclaim processes.
• Monitor reclaim yield and recovery performance.
• Work with suppliers and internal stakeholders to improve reclaim effectiveness and reduce material loss.

PM Cycle Optimization

• Lead optimization of sputter preventive maintenance (PM) cycles.
• Analyze target and shield consumption trends to improve PM effectiveness.
• Develop strategies to maximize equipment uptime while maintaining process performance.
• Support cost-saving initiatives through improved maintenance practices.

Cost Management

• Monitor sputter target and shield costs across all products.
• Develop cost models and provide regular reporting on material consumption.
• Identify opportunities to reduce target cost per unit and improve material utilization.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and cost reduction projects.

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Materials Science, Manufacturing, Physics, or a related technical field.
• Minimum 5-8 years of experience in manufacturing, sputtering, vacuum technology, semiconductor, HDD media, or related industries.
• Minimum 2-3 years of supervisory or team leadership experience.
• Equivalent manufacturing experience may be considered.

Preferred:

• Experience in inventory management, material control, or asset management is preferred.

Skills:

• Knowledge of sputtering processes, sputter targets, and shield management.

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