Staff Optical Engineer

Job Summary & Responsibilities

The Staff Optical Engineer will lead and support the design, development, and implementation of optical metrology solutions used in semiconductor manufacturing processes. This role involves working closely with experienced engineers and cross-functional teams to help ensure the accuracy and reliability of optical systems for wafer measurement and inspection.

• Design, simulate, and optimize optical subsystems for metrology and inspection tools used in semiconductor manufacturing.
• Support the development and implementation of optical measurement methods such as interferometry, ellipsometry, or scatterometry for wafer inspection and process monitoring.
• Work with mechanical, electrical, software, and process engineers to help integrate optical components and systems into semiconductor manufacturing equipment.
• Participate in characterizing and evaluating optical system performance, helping to identify opportunities to improve measurement accuracy, stability, and throughput.
• Affiliate with prototyping activities and laboratory testing of optical systems, including data collection, analysis, and documentation of results.
• Assist with diagnosing and resolving optical system issues under the guidance of senior engineers, contributing to root-cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Create and maintain technical documentation for designs, test procedures, and experimental results in accordance with internal standards.
• Support interactions with vendors and suppliers by helping evaluate components and verify that specifications meet system requirements.
• Learn industry best practices and emerging optical metrology techniques while building technical knowledge through mentorship and hands-on experience.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field.
• Foundational knowledge of optical principles including geometrical optics, physical optics, and optical instrumentation.
• Hands-on experience with optical laboratory testing, alignment, or characterization (academic, internship, or industry experience).
• Familiarity with at least one optical simulation or design tool (e.g., Zemax, Code V, COMSOL, or similar).
• Basic understanding of optical metrology techniques such as interferometry, ellipsometry, or scatterometry.
• Experience analyzing experimental data using tools such as MATLAB, Python, or Excel.
• Strong technical documentation and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, cross-functional engineering environment.

Why Join Onto Innovation?

At Onto Innovation, we believe your work should matter—and so should your well-being. That’s why we offer competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family. From health, dental, and vision coverage to life and disability insurance, PTO, and a 401(k) with employer match, we’ve got you covered. You’ll also enjoy access to our Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), wellness initiatives, and cutting-edge tools—all within a collaborative, inclusive culture where your contributions are valued and recognized.

Career Growth

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.

Important Note on Export Compliance

For certain positions requiring access to technical data, U.S. export licensing review may be necessary for applicants who are not U.S. Citizens, Permanent Residents, or other protected persons under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).