Staff Optical Engineer

Job Summary & Responsibilities

At Onto Innovation, you will play a key role in developing next-generation optical metrology and inspection systems used in advanced semiconductor manufacturing. As a Staff Optical Engineer, you will lead the design and development of optical subsystems that enable precise measurement of nanometer-scale features in logic and memory devices. You will contribute to innovations across the full optical stack—from source and illumination design to imaging and detection—supporting AI-driven process control and yield optimization in leading-edge fabs.

• Lead the design, analysis, and validation of advanced optical systems and modules for semiconductor metrology and inspection
• Develop optical architectures spanning UV to IR wavelengths, including sources, illumination, imaging optics, and detection strategies
• Perform optical modeling and simulation (e.g., Zemax, Code V), including tolerancing, stray light analysis, and performance optimization
• Define specifications and collaborate with external suppliers to develop and qualify optical components and assemblies
• Drive prototyping, integration, and experimental validation of optical subsystems
• Develop calibration methodologies and procedures to ensure measurement accuracy and system stability
• Create documentation, test instructions, and integration workflows to support manufacturing, service, and field applications
• Collaborate cross-functionally with mechanical, electrical, software, systems, and algorithm teams to deliver fully integrated solutions
• Provide technical leadership, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to optical technology

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field
• 7+ years of experience in optical system design and development
• Proven experience with optical simulation tools such as Zemax or Code V
• Strong understanding of optical system performance drivers (e.g., aberrations, polarization, scattering, noise, tolerances)
• Hands-on experience with optical system prototyping, alignment, and testing
• Experience working in cross-disciplinary engineering teams
• Proficiency in data analysis and automation using Python or MATLAB
• Demonstrated ability to own projects, define milestones, and deliver results

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in semiconductor metrology, inspection, or lithography systems
• Knowledge of advanced optical techniques (e.g., scatterometry, interferometry, ellipsometry, lithography, imaging systems)
• Experience working with suppliers and managing lens development
• Familiarity with high-precision calibration and metrology techniques

Benefits & Compensation

• Competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, PTO, and 401(k) with employer match
• Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), wellness initiatives, and cutting-edge tools within a collaborative, inclusive culture
• Base Salary Range: $115,200.00 – $172,800.00, offered based on experience, location, and qualifications
• Additional Rewards: Annual bonus opportunities and potential long-term incentives tied to both company and individual success