Semiconductor Engineer

About Us:

Direct Kinetic Solutions (DKS) is at the forefront of developing, manufacturing, and revolutionizing Radioisotopic Power Sources (RPS). Situated in Oak Ridge, TN, our radiological lab is dedicated to harnessing the high energy density of isotopes for compact power and electronic devices. Our goal is to redefine power solutions by leveraging continuous and steady energy emission from isotopes, enhancing the longevity and usability of devices such as sensors and small satellites. Direct Kinetic Solutions envisions being the power solution for future generations.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a Semiconductor Engineer with 5–10 years of experience to support the design, development, and integration of semiconductor devices and materials into our advanced power solutions. This role will focus on the modeling, characterization, and optimization of semiconductor devices critical for power management, radiation tolerance, and system reliability.

The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in semiconductor physics and electrical engineering (Master’s or PhD preferred), with experience bridging the gap between device-level design and system-level electronics.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, simulate, and characterize semiconductor devices for high-reliability power applications.
  
• Evaluate and select semiconductor materials (InGap, GaN, SiC, etc.) for performance in extreme environments.
• Coordinate with fabrication labs to develop processes for wafer development
  
• Support the design of power management circuits through deep understanding of device behavior.
  
• Conduct failure analysis, reliability testing, and radiation-effects assessment of semiconductor devices.
  
• Collaborate with PCB, power electronics, and systems engineers to integrate semiconductor solutions into final products.
  
• Develop and maintain device models for use in simulations and predictive performance analysis.
  
• Document and present findings to technical and program stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or Physics (Master’s or PhD preferred).
  
• 5–10 years of experience in semiconductor device design, testing, or integration.
  
• Strong background in semiconductor physics, device modeling, and characterization techniques.
  
• Familiarity with power semiconductor devices (MOSFETs, IGBTs, GaN/SiC, ELO and InGap devices, etc.).
  
• Experience with device-level CAD and simulation tools (e.g., TCAD, SPICE).
  
• Knowledge of reliability and radiation effects in semiconductors.
  
• Ability to work across disciplines in a fast-paced R&D environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Hands-on experience with wide bandgap semiconductors (GaN, SiC) for power applications.
  
• Background in radiation-hardened or space-qualified semiconductor devices.
  
• Experience in device packaging and thermal management.
  
• Familiarity with failure analysis labs and characterization equipment.

Who you are:

• You’re motivated by a challenge - we are a small team with a big mission, we are looking for someone who thrives in a dynamic, fast paced environment and doesn’t back down from a challenge.
• You strive for excellence and see setbacks as opportunities - we are constantly improving as we bring our first of a kind product to market, we believe that no solution is too out there and we are always open to looking at things from a different perspective.
• A teamplayer - you will have a key role in supporting our team of technical experts, you will coordinate efforts between manufacturing and engineering, ensuring everyone on the team has the materials, tools, and support to succeed. 

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses
• Comprehensive health insurance
• 401K plan with company matching
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
• Collaborative and inclusive work environment