Customer Engagement Applications Engineer

KLA is a global leader in diversified electronics for the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. Virtually every electronic device in the world is produced using our technologies. We invent systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits, packaging, printed circuit boards, and flat panel displays. Innovation drives us—we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists, and problem-solvers collaborate with leading technology providers to accelerate the delivery of tomorrow’s electronic devices. Life at KLA is exciting, with teams tackling complex challenges in a fast-paced environment.

About the role

As a Customer Engagement Applications Engineer based in Austin, TX, you will join a diverse team making a significant daily impact. This role focuses on two key areas: customer support and product development, with ample growth opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical expertise through sales presentations, product demonstrations, installation, and maintenance of company products.
• Assist sales staff in assessing potential applications of company products, preparing detailed specifications for customer solutions.
• Build mini-applications or rapid prototypes to demonstrate feasibility for clients.
• Support customer adoption through product penetration activities, demonstrations, and head-to-head (H2H) evaluations at customer facilities.
• Investigate semiconductor manufacturing yield issues and propose inspection solutions.
• Create and share product value statements and use-cases with engineering, marketing, and sales teams.
• Train customers and other applications engineers on product usage and best practices.
• Lead new product introductions, characterization, beta testing, and early evaluation tools.
• Collaborate with worldwide applications teams, engineering, sales, and marketing, as well as customer engineers.
• Develop best known method documents and training materials for global teams and customers.
• Work with customers to solve problems and publish findings in industry symposia or technical journals.
• Characterize next-generation semiconductor wafer inspection products by crafting test plans, collecting data, performing analysis, and publishing results in applications notes or best known methods.

Requirements

• Educational background in Engineering or Physics.
• Training or experience in semiconductor or related fields; background in IC processing or semiconductor equipment is a plus.
• Strong troubleshooting skills with a methodical approach and clear communication.
• Well-organized with strong follow-up abilities and experience working in multifaceted environments.
• Excellent communication, organizational, analytical, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to travel (>30%) within the U.S.

Qualifications

• High energy, dedication, and motivation to thrive in a fast-paced, high-stress semiconductor environment.
• Appreciation for autonomy, accountability, and the ability to drive projects with limited supervision.
• Strong teamwork skills, balancing technical expertise with interpersonal abilities.

Pay

Base pay range: $83,100.00 – $141,300.00 annually.

Benefits

• Performance incentive programs.
• Medical, dental, vision, life, and other voluntary benefits.
• 401(K) with company matching.
• Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP).
• Student debt assistance and tuition reimbursement.
• Development and career growth opportunities.
• Financial planning benefits.
• Wellness benefits, including an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Paid time off, company holidays, and family care/bonding leave.