Microfabrication and Prototyping Engineer (Postdoc)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Microfabrication and Prototyping Engineer (Postdoc)

Company: Sonus Microsystems

Location: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Job Type: CONTRACTOR

Category: Research & Development / Engineering Operations

Date Posted: July 14, 2026

Experience Level: Postdoctoral Researcher / Senior Engineer (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on the hands-on development and execution of microfabrication processes for advanced polymer MEMS ultrasound transducers.

• It involves rapid prototyping, assembly, and rigorous characterization of novel transducer designs to drive product innovation.

• The position requires close collaboration with cross-functional R&D teams to iterate on designs and troubleshoot fabrication challenges.

• A strong emphasis is placed on meticulous documentation, data analysis, and contributing to the scaling of manufacturing protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title specifies "Postdoc," the responsibilities and required experience level (2-5 years post-PhD) suggest this role is suitable for experienced researchers or engineers with a strong applied focus on microfabrication and prototyping, not necessarily a traditional academic postdoc. The "CONTRACTOR" employment type also indicates a project-based or fixed-term engagement, common for specialized R&D roles.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Microfabrication & Cleanroom Operations: Develop, optimize, and execute fabrication steps for polymer MEMS devices and new transducer structures. This includes hands-on operation of lithography, thin-film deposition (e-beam evaporation or sputtering), etching, photoresist processing, and wafer dicing.

• Prototyping & Assembly: Build and iterate physical prototypes using cleanroom tools, benchtop equipment, and rapid prototyping methods. This involves tasks such as wire bonding, alignment, packaging, and device assembly for small-batch experimental runs.

• Device Characterization & Analysis: Conduct comprehensive electrical measurements using impedance analyzers and network analyzers, as well as acoustic measurements using hydrophones and laser Doppler vibrometers.

• Data Analysis & Reporting: Analyze experimental signals and datasets using MATLAB or Python, document results meticulously, and propose data-driven next-step design or process improvements.

• Research & Documentation: Review scientific literature and patents to support innovation and identify potential improvements. Contribute to the development of manufacturing protocols and technology scale-up strategies.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with Sonus engineers and scientists on design iterations, process troubleshooting, and experimental planning to ensure alignment with product development goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly outline a dual focus on 'process development' and 'device iteration'. This suggests the engineer will not only execute existing protocols but also actively contribute to refining them and designing new fabrication sequences for novel transducer architectures. The emphasis on "small-batch fabrication runs for experimental evaluation" highlights the R&D nature of the role, bridging the gap between lab-scale processes and potential manufacturing.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• PhD in Engineering (e.g., Electrical, Mechanical, Materials), Physics, Materials Science, or a closely related scientific field. Experience:

• Demonstrated hands-on experience in microfabrication and cleanroom environments, evidenced by prior projects, research, or publications.

• Proven ability to build and iterate physical prototypes and conduct laboratory measurements.

• Experience with structured experimental workflows and meticulous documentation practices. Required Skills:

• Microfabrication Expertise: Strong hands-on skills in cleanroom operations, including lithography, thin-film deposition (e-beam evaporation or sputtering), etching, and photoresist processing.

• MEMS Fundamentals: Working knowledge of MEMS fabrication principles and device behaviors.

• Prototyping & Assembly: Experience in building prototypes, wire bonding, alignment, and device assembly.

• Electrical & Acoustic Testing: Proficiency in conducting electrical measurements (impedance analysis, network analysis) and acoustic measurements (hydrophones, laser Doppler vibrometry).

• Data Analysis Software: Ability to analyze signals and datasets using MATLAB or Python.

• Documentation & Collaboration: Excellent communication skills, a collaborative mindset, and the ability to maintain accurate process records.

Preferred Skills:

• Polymer MEMS/Soft Materials: Experience with polymer MEMS fabrication or soft materials processing.

• Ultrasound Technology: Familiarity with Capacitive Micromachined Ultrasound Transducers (CMUTs) or general ultrasound technologies.

• Simulation Tools: Experience with Finite Element Method (FEM) simulation software such as COMSOL or ANSYS.

• Advanced Metrology: Experience with hydrophone-based acoustic testing or optical metrology techniques.

• Mask Design: Familiarity with mask design tools like L-Edit, KLayout, or CleWin.

• Electronics Prototyping: Knowledge of PCB design, assembly, and electronics prototyping.

📝 Enhancement Note: The distinction between required and preferred skills highlights a practical approach to hiring. While a PhD is mandatory, the company is willing to train candidates on specific advanced technologies (like CMUTs or polymer MEMS) if they possess a strong foundational skill set in microfabrication and experimental analysis. The inclusion of specific simulation and mask design tools suggests these are valuable for accelerating the design-build-test cycle within the R&D team.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Fabrication Process Documentation: Examples of detailed process flow documentation, including step-by-step procedures for microfabrication, assembly, and testing.

• Experimental Data & Analysis: Demonstrations of experimental data, including raw signals, processed datasets, and analytical interpretations, showcasing proficiency in MATLAB or Python.

• Device Iteration Case Studies: Examples of how experimental results led to specific design or process improvements in prior projects, illustrating a closed-loop development process.

• Prototyping Examples: Visual evidence or descriptions of physical prototypes built, highlighting the complexity, materials, and assembly techniques used.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Ability to design and document complex microfabrication workflows, including process steps, equipment usage, and critical parameters.

• Optimization Records: Evidence of process optimization efforts, showing baseline performance, implemented changes, and measured improvements in yield, performance, or efficiency.

• Performance Analysis: Documentation of device performance metrics, including electrical and acoustic characteristics, and how they were measured and analyzed.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on R&D and prototyping, the portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical skills. Candidates should emphasize projects where they were directly involved in the hands-on fabrication and characterization, clearly outlining their specific contributions, the challenges faced, and the outcomes achieved. Quantifiable results (e.g., "improved deposition uniformity by 15%", "achieved X dB signal-to-noise ratio") will be highly impactful.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $60,000 - $70,000 CAD per year.

Benefits:

• MITACS Accelerate Program: Access to funding and support through the MITACS Accelerate program, potentially including additional stipends or research grants.

• Hands-on Research Experience: Opportunity to work with cutting-edge polymer MEMS and ultrasound transducer technology.

• Cross-functional Team Exposure: Collaboration with experienced engineers and scientists in a dynamic startup environment.

• Cleanroom Access: Utilization of state-of-the-art cleanroom facilities at UBC and SFU, as well as Sonus' R&D labs.

• Professional Development: Exposure to industrial R&D processes, technology scale-up, and potential pathways for future employment in advanced manufacturing or medical device sectors.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 hours per week), with potential for flexibility based on project needs and cleanroom scheduling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range of $60,000-$70,000 CAD for a Postdoc/Engineer in Vancouver, BC, is on the lower end for a typical industry postdoc or senior R&D role, especially considering the advanced technical skills required. However, the role's description as part of the MITACS Accelerate program suggests that this base salary may be supplemented by MITACS funding, which often provides additional stipends and research support. Candidates should clarify the full compensation package, including any MITACS contributions, during the interview process. Vancouver is also a high cost-of-living city, which should be factored into salary expectations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Medical Devices / Advanced Materials / MEMS Technology

Company Size: Small (typically under 50 employees for a startup at this stage)

Founded: Sonus Microsystems is a relatively young company, likely founded within the last decade, focused on commercializing proprietary polymer MEMS technology.

Team Structure:

• R&D Focused: The team is heavily weighted towards research and development, comprising scientists, engineers, and technicians specializing in MEMS, materials science, acoustics, and electrical engineering.

• Lean & Agile: As a startup, Sonus Microsystems likely operates with a lean, agile structure, encouraging rapid decision-making and cross-functional collaboration.

• Academic Partnerships: The collaboration with UBC and SFU cleanroom facilities indicates strong ties with academic research institutions and potentially a culture that values scientific rigor and innovation.

Methodology:

• Iterative Development: The company's approach is centered around an iterative R&D cycle: design, fabricate, test, analyze, and refine.

• Data-Driven Decisions: Emphasis on experimental validation and data analysis to inform design choices and process improvements.

• Problem-Solving Oriented: The culture likely fosters a proactive, hands-on approach to solving complex technical challenges in microfabrication and device performance.

Company Website: https://sonus-microsystems.breezy.hr (Note: This is a careers page URL, the primary company website would likely be sonusmicrosystems.com if it exists and is active).

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's mission to develop an "affordable imaging diagnostic device" using novel polymer MEMS technology positions it as an innovator in the healthcare technology sector. The "state-of-the-art and patented polymer MEMS technology" suggests a strong IP foundation. The focus on "clinical screening and remote patient monitoring" indicates a significant market opportunity and a potential for high impact.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Postdoctoral Researcher or a highly specialized Engineer, typically requiring a PhD and 2-5 years of post-doctoral or industry experience. It's an individual contributor role focused on deep technical expertise within microfabrication and prototyping.

Reporting Structure: The engineer will likely report to a Senior R&D Manager, Director of Engineering, or a Lead Scientist responsible for the MEMS fabrication and prototyping efforts. They will collaborate closely with other engineers and scientists within the R&D department.

Operations Impact: The success of this role directly impacts the company's ability to develop and validate its core polyCMUT technology. Improvements in fabrication processes and device performance are critical for achieving the required product specifications, reducing manufacturing costs, and enabling the company's mission to transform clinical screening.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in polymer MEMS, advanced fabrication techniques, and ultrasound transducer technology.

• Process Engineering: Transition into a process development or manufacturing engineering role as the company scales.

• R&D Leadership: Potentially move into lead scientist or R&D management positions as the company grows and new product lines emerge.

• Industry Transition: Gain valuable experience in a high-growth MedTech startup, opening doors to other opportunities in the medical device, semiconductor, or advanced materials industries.

• Entrepreneurial Path: Contribute to a foundational technology in a startup environment, offering insights into commercialization and product development.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Postdoc," the "CONTRACTOR" status and the context of a startup suggest this role might be a stepping stone. The growth potential lies in the company's success and the individual's contribution to scaling its technology from R&D to potential manufacturing. The MITACS program often aims to bridge academic research with industry application, so there could be opportunities for full-time roles if the project is successful and funding allows.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid – involving hands-on work in cleanroom facilities (UBC, SFU) and Sonus' R&D labs, alongside potential office-based work for data analysis, documentation, and team meetings.

Office Location(s):

• University of British Columbia (UBC) cleanroom facilities

• Simon Fraser University (SFU) cleanroom facilities

• Sonus Microsystems' R&D laboratories (likely located in the Vancouver area) Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Lab Environment: Working in shared cleanroom facilities requires adherence to strict protocols and effective collaboration with other users.

• Research-Intensive Setting: The role is embedded within a research-oriented environment where experimentation, problem-solving, and continuous learning are paramount.

• Access to Advanced Tools: Daily interaction with specialized microfabrication equipment, characterization instruments, and analysis software.

Work Schedule:

• Primarily on-site, with a standard full-time work week (approx. 40 hours). Flexibility may be required to accommodate cleanroom availability, experimental timelines, and critical project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The reliance on university cleanroom facilities (UBC and SFU) is typical for startups or research groups that haven't yet established their own large-scale fabrication infrastructure. This requires excellent scheduling, coordination, and adherence to the host institution's protocols. It also signifies a strong connection to academic research and innovation.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: Review of CV/resume and cover letter, focusing on PhD research, microfabrication experience, and relevant skills.

2. Technical Interview (Remote/On-site): In-depth discussion of candidate's background, research projects, and specific experience in cleanroom processes, MEMS, prototyping, and characterization. Expect questions on troubleshooting, process optimization, and data analysis.

3. Portfolio Review: Presentation and discussion of a selected portfolio of work. Candidates will be expected to walk through specific projects, detailing their role, methodologies, results, and impact.

4. On-site Visit/Lab Tour: If feasible, an on-site visit to Sonus' R&D labs and potentially a discussion with team members to assess cultural fit and working style.

5. Final Interview: Discussion with senior management or hiring manager to finalize terms and assess overall fit for the role and company.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Hands-on Work: Focus on projects where you were directly involved in fabrication, assembly, or testing.

• Quantify Achievements: Use specific metrics and data to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., performance improvements, yield rates, resolution achieved).

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Detail challenges encountered during fabrication or characterization and how you systematically addressed them.

• Process Flow Diagrams: Include visual representations of fabrication processes you developed or optimized.

• Data Analysis Examples: Present clear examples of data analysis, including the tools used (MATLAB/Python) and the insights derived.

• Tailor to Sonus: If possible, draw parallels between your experience and Sonus' technology (polymer MEMS, CMUTs, ultrasound).

Challenge Preparation:

• Process Design Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical scenario where you might be asked to outline steps for fabricating a new MEMS device or optimizing an existing process.

• Troubleshooting Exercise: Expect questions related to diagnosing and solving common microfabrication or device characterization problems.

• Data Interpretation: You may be presented with sample experimental data and asked to interpret it, draw conclusions, and suggest next steps.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the applied nature of the role, the portfolio review will be a critical component. Candidates should be ready to discuss the "why" and "how" behind their projects, not just the "what." Demonstrating a systematic approach to R&D, from experimental design to data analysis and iterative improvement, will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Cleanroom Equipment: Lithography tools (mask aligners, steppers), thin-film deposition systems (e-beam evaporators, sputtering systems), etching tools (wet benches, RIE), wafer dicing saws, wire bonders.

• Prototyping Equipment: Benchtop assembly tools, potentially 3D printers for jigs or fixtures.

• Measurement Instruments:

  • Electrical: Impedance Analyzers, Network Analyzers (e.g., Keysight, Rohde & Schwarz), signal generators, oscilloscopes.
  • Acoustic: Hydrophones, Laser Doppler Vibrometers (LDVs).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Software: MATLAB (essential), Python (highly beneficial).

• Simulation Software (Preferred): COMSOL Multiphysics, ANSYS.

• Design Tools (Preferred): L-Edit, KLayout, CleWin for mask design.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this R&D role, focus is on R&D tools and scientific software.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in MATLAB for data analysis is explicitly required, and Python is a strong asset. The company’s reliance on specific cleanroom equipment and measurement tools means candidates should be able to speak to their experience with similar or equivalent systems. Experience with simulation tools like COMSOL is highly valued for modeling transducer behavior.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Discovery: A drive to push the boundaries of polymer MEMS technology and develop novel ultrasound solutions.

• Scientific Rigor: Commitment to robust experimental design, accurate data collection, and evidence-based conclusions.

• Problem-Solving: A proactive and analytical approach to overcoming technical challenges inherent in microfabrication and device development.

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on teamwork and cross-functional communication to achieve shared R&D objectives.

• Efficiency & Iteration: A focus on rapid prototyping and iterative development to accelerate the R&D cycle.

Collaboration Style:

• Interdisciplinary: Expect to work closely with individuals from diverse technical backgrounds (MEMS, acoustics, materials science, electrical engineering).

• Hands-on & Supportive: The environment likely encourages direct collaboration in the lab, with team members readily offering support and sharing expertise.

• Feedback-Oriented: An openness to constructive feedback on designs, processes, and experimental approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: As a startup leveraging advanced technology, Sonus Microsystems likely cultivates a culture that values intellectual curiosity, resilience in the face of technical hurdles, and a shared passion for bringing a transformative product to market. The "We Encourage Diverse Perspectives" statement suggests a commitment to an inclusive environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Scaling Microfabrication: Transitioning R&D-scale processes to a more robust and potentially higher-volume manufacturing flow presents significant engineering challenges.

• Material Science Complexity: Working with polymer MEMS can involve unique material properties and processing challenges compared to traditional silicon-based MEMS.

• Device Performance Optimization: Achieving the required sensitivity, bandwidth, and reliability for diagnostic imaging applications will be an ongoing challenge.

• Resource Constraints: As a startup, there may be limitations on equipment, budget, or time, requiring resourcefulness and prioritization.

• Cleanroom Access & Scheduling: Coordinating access to shared university cleanroom facilities can be complex and require careful planning.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced MEMS Techniques: Gain hands-on experience with specialized polymer MEMS fabrication and characterization.

• Ultrasound Transducer Design: Deepen understanding of acoustic principles and transducer physics.

• Startup Environment Acumen: Learn about product development, IP strategy, and commercialization within a fast-paced startup.

• Cross-Functional Skill Development: Exposure to different engineering disciplines and project management.

• Networking: Build connections within the Vancouver tech and academic research communities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "challenges" listed are opportunities in disguise for ambitious candidates. Successfully navigating these will provide invaluable experience and demonstrate problem-solving capabilities. The MITACS program itself is designed to foster industry-relevant research and skill development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Process Development: "Describe a time you had to develop a new microfabrication process from scratch. What were the key steps, challenges, and how did you validate your results?"

• Troubleshooting: "Imagine a batch of polyCMUTs shows significantly lower capacitance than expected. What are the first steps you would take to diagnose and resolve this issue?"

• Data Interpretation: "How would you analyze the frequency response data from a fabricated transducer to determine its resonant frequency and bandwidth? What would be the implications of a narrow bandwidth?"

• Collaboration: "Describe a situation where you had to collaborate with engineers from different disciplines to solve a technical problem. What was your role, and how did you ensure effective communication?"

• Innovation: "What recent advancements in MEMS or ultrasound technology do you find most exciting, and how might they be applied to Sonus' technology?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you specifically about Sonus Microsystems and our polymer MEMS technology?"

• "How do you approach working in a startup environment, particularly with potential resource constraints or rapid project shifts?"

• "Describe your experience working in shared laboratory facilities like university cleanrooms."

• "How do you stay updated on the latest research and developments in microfabrication and acoustics?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure your narrative: For each project, clearly state the objective, your specific role and contributions, the methods used (fabrication steps, characterization techniques), the results obtained (with data and metrics), and the lessons learned or impact.

• Focus on impact: Emphasize how your work contributed to the project's success or led to tangible improvements.

• Be ready for deep dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your process choices, experimental design, and data analysis methods.

• Visualize your work: Use clear diagrams, images, and graphs to illustrate your processes and results.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to articulate their understanding of the challenges and opportunities in bringing novel MEMS devices from lab to market. Demonstrating a clear, systematic, and data-driven approach to R&D, coupled with strong communication skills, will be crucial for success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this microfabrication and prototyping position:

• Submit your application through the provided Breezy HR link.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a selection of your most relevant research projects. Prioritize those demonstrating hands-on microfabrication, cleanroom experience, prototyping, and data analysis using MATLAB/Python. Prepare to present 2-3 key projects in detail.

• Resume & CV Tailoring: Update your resume and CV to highlight specific microfabrication techniques, equipment used, software proficiencies (MATLAB, Python, COMSOL), and any experience with polymer MEMS or ultrasound technology. Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Research Sonus Microsystems: Familiarize yourself with the company's mission, the polyCMUT technology, and the potential applications in healthcare. Understand the MITACS Accelerate program and its objectives.

• Prepare for Technical Questions: Review fundamental concepts in MEMS fabrication, cleanroom protocols, electrical and acoustic characterization, and data analysis. Practice articulating your problem-solving methodology.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes insights based on industry standards for R&D roles, startup environments, and the MITACS Accelerate program. Specific details regarding compensation, benefits, and project scope should be confirmed directly with Sonus Microsystems during the interview process. The "CONTRACTOR" employment type suggests a fixed-term engagement.