Lab Manager

About Atomic Semi

Atomic Semi is building a small, fast semiconductor fab.

It’s already possible to build this with today’s technology and a few simplifications. We’ll build the tools ourselves so we can quickly iterate and improve.

We’re building a small team of exceptional, hands-on engineers to make this happen. Mechanical, electrical, hardware, computer, and process. We’ll own the stack from atoms to architecture. Our team is optimistic about the future and we want to continue pushing the limits of technology.

Smaller is better. Faster is better. Building it ourselves is better.

We believe our team and lab can build anything. We’ve set up 3D printers, a wide array of microscopes, e-beam writers, general fabrication equipment - and whatever is missing, we’ll just invent along the way.

Atomic was founded by Sam Zeloof and Jim Keller. Sam is best known for making chips in his garage, and Jim has been a leader in the semiconductor industry for the past 40 years.

About the role

The Lab Manager sits within the overall Process Engineering team. The Process Team sits at the heart of our in-house device development, driving the design of each new generation of tools. This is unlike any role at a traditional foundry—we simultaneously develop recipes, apply novel materials, test and characterize our chips, and troubleshoot tools.

About the role

As Lab Manager at Atomic Semi, you’ll oversee day-to-day lab operations, ensuring that our fabrication spaces run safely, efficiently, and in compliance with environmental and chemical regulations. You’ll manage permitting, chemical inventory, and safety programs while supporting installation and maintenance of lab tools.

This is a high-impact role at the intersection of operations, compliance, and engineering. You’ll work closely with process and mechanical engineers to support rapid experimentation, contribute to the setup of new lab facilities, and help scale Atomic Semi’s fabrication capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Own permitting and compliance for buildings, chemical storage, and gas systems.

• Maintain inventory of chemicals, consumables, and lab supplies.

• Oversee installation, maintenance, and calibration of key lab equipment (fume hoods, glove boxes, SEM, filters, etc.).

• Conduct safety training for all lab users and enforce safety and compliance protocols.

• Support layout planning and infrastructure setup for new lab spaces.

• Serve as the point of contact for environmental health and safety (EHS) matters.

Required Experience

• BS in a technical field such as Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science or related discipline (or equivalent experience).

• Experience managing lab operations, chemical inventories, or EHS programs.

• Working knowledge of lab safety, permitting, and chemical handling regulations.

• Hands-on experience maintaining or troubleshooting lab equipment.

Nice-to-have

• Experience with semiconductor or materials R&D environments.

• Familiarity with vacuum systems, cleanroom protocols, or analytical tools (e.g., SEM, profilometer).

• Previous startup or fast-paced lab experience.

Working at Atomic Semi

We’re an early-stage hardware startup with solid funding, world-class advisors, and a lab/office in San Francisco, CA. 

Benefits: Atomic Semi offers the following benefits, subject to applicable eligibility requirements: 

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance

• Generous Paid Time Off inclusive of Holidays and Sick Time

• Visa Sponsorship

• Life and Disability Insurance

• Paid Parental Leave

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Weekly Learning & Development opportunities

• Commuter Benefits including Parking and Late Night Uber rides from the office

• Lunches daily, Dinners 3x per week, Stocked Office Kitchen with Snacks and Spindrifts

We are an equal-opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability or other legally protected statuses.

Export Control Analysis: This position involves access to technology that is subject to U.S. export controls. Any job offer made will be contingent upon the applicant’s capacity to serve in compliance with U.S. export controls.