Staff Applications Engineer

Job Summary

The Staff Application Engineer is responsible for system qualification, process optimization, and customer engagement for advanced semiconductor metrology solutions, with a focus on Onto Innovation platforms (OCD and Thin Film systems).

Key Responsibilities

• Lead system qualification and matching activities across Onto Innovation OCD and thin film metrology systems.
• Execute tool-to-tool matching, recipe transfer, and performance validation to meet customer specifications.
• Analyze system variation and implement corrective actions to achieve tight process control and repeatability.
• Develop, optimize, and maintain OCD and thin film models for semiconductor applications.
• Perform modeling validation and ensure accuracy against reference measurements (e.g., CD-SEM, TEM).
• Provide technical expertise in optical metrology, thin films, and process characterization.
• Utilize statistical and analytical methods to diagnose system performance issues and process deviations.
• Drive root cause analysis and implement solutions for tool, process, or modeling discrepancies.
• Continuously monitor system performance metrics and recommend improvements.
• Interface directly with customers to understand requirements, communicate results, and drive technical solutions.
• Deliver clear, concise technical presentations and reports to customers and internal stakeholders.
• Build strong customer relationships through professionalism, responsiveness, and technical credibility.
• Apply data analysis tools such as JMP, Excel, and other statistical packages for performance evaluation.
• Prepare reports and presentations using PowerPoint.
• Develop and apply basic scripting (e.g., Python, MATLAB, or similar) for data processing and automation.
• Work extensively in semiconductor cleanroom environments for system setup, qualification, and troubleshooting.
• Support customers on-site with flexibility to work extended hours when required.
• Travel domestically and internationally to support installations, escalations, and customer engagements.
• Demonstrate ownership and the ability to operate independently with minimal supervision.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Service, Sales, Engineering, and Software teams to drive customer success.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to knowledge sharing and best practices.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree or higher in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical discipline. Master’s or PhD strongly preferred for advanced process or metrology expertise.
• Required Qualifications & Skills:
  • Strong knowledge of: Optical metrology principles, Thin film/OCD modeling and characterization, Solid understanding of semiconductor processes and manufacturing environments, Proven ability in data analysis, system troubleshooting, and performance optimization, Excellent communication, presentation, and customer-facing skills, Proficiency in: JMP, Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Basic scripting (Python, MATLAB, or similar), Strong analytical mindset with attention to detail, Self-driven with a high sense of ownership, Ability to balance independent work with teamwork, Adaptability in dynamic, customer-driven environments
• Preferred Candidate: Prior working experience with metrology systems, specifically: OCD (Optical Critical Dimension), Thin Film metrology systems

Compensation & Growth

Base Salary Range: $115,200.00 - $172,800.00, offered in good faith and based on experience, location, and qualifications. Additional Rewards: Annual bonus opportunities and potential long-term incentives tied to both company and individual success.