Processing Engineer

Job Title: Clean Room Process Engineer

Contract Type: 4 Year Fixed Term Contract

Location: Great Baddow (Onsite working, with flexible hours)

Who we are

Join BAE Systems and you’ll be part of something bigger. As a valued member of our global colleague network, you’ll bring your unique skills and perspectives to help pioneer progress and protect what matters most. You’ll be trusted to play your part in delivering the advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions of tomorrow - shaping a safer future, for all of us.

From the depths of the ocean, to the far reaches of space - there’s no limit to where a career at BAE Systems could take you.

Role Description

We are seeking a Clean Room Process Engineer to support advanced microfabrication manufacturing activities at our Great Baddow facility. The successful candidate will work across cleanroom processes (Class 7 or better) and will work on a production contract, ensuring high-quality outputs, adherence to strict process controls, and continuous improvement across manufacturing operations.

You will work closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams within a highly regulated and quality‑focused environment, consistent with BAE Systems’ standards of safety, professionalism and technical excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Cleanroom Operations & Process Execution

• Perform hands-on processing within minimum Class 7 cleanroom facilities (or higher), following gowning, contamination control and safety protocols. Industry listings emphasise the importance of strict adherence to cleanroom procedures and sterile work practices.
• Execute and monitor a range of microfabrication processes including (depending on experience):
• Photolithography, Thin Film Deposition (PVD, CVD, ALD), CMP, Wire Bonding, Ion Beam Milling, Inspection and Metrology, Packaging, Lidding, Leak Testing, and other semiconductor or optoelectronic processes.
• Maintain accurate production flow, ensuring wafers/devices are moved efficiently through process steps.
• Operate cleanroom tools such as aligners, deposition systems, ovens, plasma etchers, CMP or polish equipment, visual inspection microscopes, and vacuum systems.

Process Control & Quality Assurance

• Follow established manufacturing process documentation, SOPs and quality standards strictly, maintaining high levels of cleanliness and consistency.
• Support Quality Assurance, including inspection, device characterisation, monitoring, and defect analysis—aligned with expectations.
• Document process results, deviations, and yield-impacting issues and support root‑cause investigations.
• Support cleanroom environmental monitoring requirements (e.g., particle counts, equipment checks), similar to industry cleanroom technician responsibilities.
• where required.

Essential Requirements

• Experience working in a cleanroom environment, minimum Class 7, with excellent discipline regarding contamination control. Industry roles highlight strict operational protocols and gowning requirements.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow precise manufacturing processes consistently.
• High levels of manual dexterity for fine, delicate processing.

Desirable Skills/Experience (based on industry listings and semiconductor fabrication roles)

• Hands-on experience with some of the following:
• Photolithography (resist coating, exposure, development)
• Thin Film Deposition (PVD, CVD, ALD, sputtering)
• Dry/Wet Etch, Plasma Etch, Ion Beam Milling
• CMP/Polishing processes
• Wire Bonding, Die Packaging, Lidding, Leak Testing
• Metrology & Inspection – e.g. optical microscopy, profilometry.
• Knowledge of SPC, process validation.

Why BAE Systems

Here you’ll build a career with purpose and limitless possibilities. With lifelong learning and meaningful work - this is a place where you can grow your career with confidence and be empowered to be your best. You’ll be recognised for your contribution and enjoy rewards tailored to what’s most important to you and your family - support for your financial and personal wellbeing, as well as a balanced lifestyle. In an environment embracing sustainable ways of working and with a strong sense of shared purpose, our supportive culture is a place you can feel you belong and proud of the difference you make.

A place where everyone can thrive.

We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We know that a diversity of backgrounds, perspectives and experiences strengthens our teams and is vital to the work we do.

We welcome applications from all candidates and give full, fair and open consideration to everyone. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please

contact our recruitment team to discuss any further support you may need. Connect with us at baesystems.com/connect

Please be aware that many roles at BAE Systems are subject to both security and export control restrictions. These restrictions mean that factors such as your nationality, any nationalities you may have previously held, and your place of birth can restrict the roles you are eligible to perform within the organisation. All applicants must as a minimum achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard. Many roles also require higher levels of National Security Vetting where applicants must typically have 5 to 10 years of continuous residency in the UK depending on the vetting level required for the role, to allow for meaningful security vetting checks.