Photodetector Wafer Processing & Device Characterization Intern

MACOM (NASDAQ: MTSI) is a global leader in the design and manufacture of advanced semiconductor products across a diverse range of end markets, including Data Centers, Telecommunications, Industrial and Aerospace and Defense. We develop innovative, cutting-edge technologies and products across the spectrum of radio frequency (RF), microwave, millimeter wave, photonics and high-speed analog technologies. Our solutions support critical network infrastructure applications like artificial intelligence, high performance computing, satellite communications, radar, unmanned aerial vehicles, medical equipment, test and measurement and advanced wireless networks.

MACOM has more than 75 years of expertise in semiconductor process development, wafer fabrication, circuit design, advanced packaging, systems architecture and applications engineering. We are committed to our customers’ success. We partner with customers to help solve their most challenging problems by providing semiconductor solutions that are at the forefront of the highest power, highest frequency and/or highest data rates.

Leading technologies, innovative products and driven employees. Come be a part of MACOM and help advance the next generation of connectivity infrastructure!

Photodetector Wafer Processing & Device Characterization Intern

Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan

Position Overview

MACOM is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Engineering Intern to support the development and characterization of advanced photodetector technologies used in high-speed optical communications, sensing, and aerospace applications. The intern will work closely with process, device, and product engineers to support wafer fabrication activities, perform electrical and optical characterization, analyze experimental data, and contribute to process improvement initiatives.

This position provides hands-on experience in semiconductor wafer processing, cleanroom operations, optoelectronic device testing, and data-driven engineering within a fast-paced photonics manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist engineers with photodetector wafer processing activities, including:
  
  

oPhotolithography

oThin-film deposition

oWet and dry etching

oSurface cleaning and preparation

oWafer inspection and metrology

• Support cleanroom fabrication of photodiodes and related optoelectronic devices.
• Perform electrical characterization of devices, including:
  
  

oCurrent-voltage (I-V) measurements

oDark current analysis

oBreakdown voltage testing

oResistance and capacitance measurements

• Conduct optical characterization, including:
  
  

oResponsivity measurements

oOptical power calibration

oWavelength-dependent performance testing

• Operate laboratory and characterization equipment such as:
  
  

oProbe stations

oSemiconductor parameter analyzers

oOptical test setups

oPower meters

oOscilloscopes

oNetwork analyzers (as applicable)

• Analyze measurement data using Excel, Python, MATLAB, or similar tools.
• Document experimental procedures, test results, and observations in engineering reports and laboratory notebooks.
• Collaborate with process and device engineers to identify yield, performance, and reliability improvement opportunities.
• Follow all laboratory, cleanroom, ESD, and safety procedures.
  
  

Required Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in:
  
  

oElectrical Engineering

oMaterials Science Engineering

oPhysics

oPhotonics

oOptics

oChemical Engineering

oSemiconductor Engineering or related field

• Completed coursework in semiconductor devices, electronics, materials science, physics, or photonics.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to collect, organize, and interpret experimental data.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and within a multidisciplinary engineering team.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior semiconductor fabrication or cleanroom experience.
• Familiarity with photodetectors, photodiodes, or optoelectronic devices.
• Experience with semiconductor characterization techniques.
• Knowledge of semiconductor process technologies and wafer fabrication fundamentals.
• Experience with data analysis tools such as:
  
  

oPython

oMATLAB

oJMP

oMinitab

• Exposure to test automation and instrument control is a plus.
  
  

Learning Objectives

By the end of the internship, the candidate will have gained experience in:

• Semiconductor wafer fabrication workflows.
• Photodetector device physics and operation.
• Electrical and optical characterization methodologies.
• Experimental design and engineering data analysis.
• Root cause investigation and process improvement techniques.
• Working within a high-volume manufacturing and product development environment.
  
  

Desired Characteristics

• Curious and hands-on approach to engineering challenges.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data quality.
• Willingness to learn new laboratory and fabrication techniques.
• Self-motivated with excellent organizational skills.
• Passion for advanced semiconductor and photonic technologies.
  
  

During the 12 weeks each Intern will:

• Be given an individual and well-defined project with set outcome goals
• Gain hands on experience
• Receive excellent training and ongoing supervision
• Be invited to attend an intern webinar series
• Attend networking/social events
• Attend and present at Poster Session about each Interns project successes and pitfalls
• Receive formal, written feedback
  
  

EEO:

MACOM is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a diverse workforce. MACOM will not discriminate against any worker or job applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, military service, marital status, or any other category protected under applicable law.

Reasonable Accommodation:

MACOM is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with physical and mental disabilities. If you have a disability and are in need of a reasonable accommodation with respect to any part of the application process please call 1-978-656-2500 or email HR_Ops@MACOM.com. Provide your name, phone number and the position title and location in which you are interested, and nature of accommodation needed, and we will get back to you. We also work with current employees who request or need reasonable accommodation in order to perform the essential functions of their jobs.