System Engineer - Optical Imaging System
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. Our teams thrive on tackling complex problems, with a strong focus on innovation—we invest 15% of sales back into R&D.
About the Role
The Global Products Group (GPG) at KLA, responsible for creating all metrology and inspection products, is seeking talented individuals to drive product development for semiconductor inspection systems. This role focuses on performance, robustness, and manufacturability, supporting system-level integration across optics, imaging, hardware, software, and application workflows. The RAPID division is the world's leading provider of reticle inspection solutions for the semiconductor industry.
Responsibilities
- Drive product development activities for semiconductor inspection systems, emphasizing performance, robustness, and manufacturability.
- Support system-level integration and development across optics, imaging, hardware, software, and application workflows.
- Analyze product performance, identify gaps, and develop solutions to improve inspection sensitivity, stability, throughput, and usability.
- Design, execute, and interpret experiments to evaluate system behavior, performance trade-offs, and engineering risks.
- Work with cross-functional partners to root-cause technical issues and drive corrective actions.
- Translate system and customer needs into engineering requirements, validation plans, and development priorities.
- Contribute to design reviews, technical risk assessments, and product readiness decisions.
- Develop test plans and analysis reports.
- Collaborate with manufacturing, field, and application teams to support product transfer, issue resolution, and continuous improvement.
- Drive execution across complex technical topics with clear ownership, structured problem-solving, and strong follow-through.
Requirements
- Doctorate (Academic) Degree with 0 years of related work experience; OR Master's Level Degree with 3 years of related work experience; OR Bachelor's Level Degree with 5 years of related work experience.
- Strong background in engineering or physical sciences, with demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Solid understanding of the working principles of optical imaging systems and key system components.
- Experience in optical system modeling and performance analysis.
- Hands-on experience with optical microscopy techniques.
- Good understanding of Fourier optics and geometric optics (a plus).
- Ability to independently collect data using standard tool operation and diagnostic software.
- Proficiency in data analysis tools such as MATLAB or Python.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a cross-functional team environment.
Pay
Base pay range: $117,800.00 - $200,300.00 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 program.
- Development and career growth opportunities and programs.
- Financial planning benefits.
- Wellness benefits, including an employee assistance program (EAP).
- Paid time off and paid company holidays.
- Family care and bonding leave.
Interns are eligible for some of the benefits listed.