Manager/Principal Motion Control Systems (Semiconductor R&D)

Galatek Semiconductor; Singapore; On-site; SGD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive package

Global team

Flexible work practices

Job summary

Galatek Semiconductor in Singapore is seeking a Senior Engineer, Motion Systems to lead the design and optimization of high‑precision motion architectures for next‑gen semiconductor tools.

You will collaborate with system, mechanical, software and controls teams to ensure top‑tier speed, accuracy and stability, while driving DFMEA, reliability analysis, and NPI validation through the product lifecycle. Travel ~25% during transitions and supplier engagement.

Qualifications

• 8–10 years of relevant experience in high‑precision motion system design in semiconductor capital equipment, automation, or robotics.
• Strong understanding of servo tuning, PID control, trajectory planning, and motion optimization techniques.
• Experience with vibration modelling, isolation system design, and structural dynamics analysis.
• Hands‑on experience with motion controllers and high‑performance feedback systems.
• Familiarity with real‑time control integration and with software teams.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize precision motion subsystems including linear/rotary actuators and direct-drive motors.
• Tune motion systems for speed, accuracy and repeatability within mechanical limits.
• Implement vibration isolation, damping and active noise cancellation strategies.
• Analyse servo loops and trajectories using MATLAB, LabVIEW or real-time platforms.
• Collaborate across system, mechanical and software teams to integrate motion with sensing and control software.
• Conduct dynamic simulations and modal analysis to predict resonances and mitigate issues.
• Develop tuning procedures and documentation for scalable performance across products.
• Support system bring‑up, root‑cause analysis, and continuous improvement.
• Participate in DFMEA, reliability analysis, and NPI validation for motion subsystems.
• Interface with motion component vendors to optimize cost‑performance trade‑offs.

Skills

Servo tuning

PID control

Trajectory planning

Motion optimization

Vibration modelling

Noise cancellation

Real-time control integration

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechatronics, Mechanical, Electrical, or Control Systems Engineering

Tools

Omron Delta Tau

Beckhoff

ACS controllers

Encoders

Laser interferometers

Job description

Galatek stands at the forefront of scientific and technological innovation, serving as a catalyst for global transformation. Headquartered in Singapore, with R&D and delivery centres in Germany, the United States, Japan, and China, our global presence reflects our commitment to delivering top-tier solutions and being a responsible global citizen. With an unwavering commitment to enhancing human life and shaping a more vibrant, resilient, and sustainable future, we empower the world's brightest minds to push the boundaries of possibility.

Galatek is an ambitious deep-tech company fuelled by a diverse team of exceptional talents from leading global universities. United by a shared vision of innovation, we are pioneering advancements in robotics automation and artificial intelligence, transforming their applications in Biopharmaceutical and Semiconductor Manufacturing. By providing cutting-edge production tools, we liberate researchers and innovators from routine tasks, enabling them to focus on discovery and advancement. From life sciences and clinical diagnostics to applied chemicals, integrated circuits, and sustainable energy, we ignite a wave of breakthroughs that redefine industries and drive meaningful progress.

About the Job

At Galatek Singapore, we’re at the forefront of innovation in advanced semiconductor equipment - developing high-precision, high-speed machines that enable the next generation of chip manufacturing. We are seeking a Senior Engineer, Motion Systems to join our multidisciplinary team, helping us build sophisticated, high-performance motion platforms from the ground up.

Job Summary

As the Manager/Principal, Motion Systems, you will play a key role in designing, developing, and optimizing the motion architecture for our next-generation semiconductor tools. Working closely with system, mechanical, software, and controls teams, you’ll ensure the motion system delivers best-in-class performance in speed, accuracy, and stability. Key Responsibilities:

• Design and optimize precision motion subsystems, including linear/rotary actuators, direct-drive motors, high-resolution encoders, and feedback systems.
• Tune motion systems for optimal speed, accuracy, and repeatability, balancing dynamic performance with mechanical limits and environmental constraints.
• Implement and refine vibration isolation, structural damping, and active noise cancellation strategies to suppress mechanical disturbances and maintain system stability.
• Analyse and fine-tune servo control loops, motion trajectories, and response profiles using tools like MATLAB, LabVIEW, or real-time diagnostic platforms.
• Collaborate with system, mechanical, and software engineers to integrate motion elements with vision alignment systems, sensors, and control software.
• Conduct dynamic simulations and modal analysis to predict and mitigate resonances and compliance issues.
• Develop tuning procedures and documentation to ensure consistent system performance and enable scaling across product lines.
• Support system bring‑up, root‑cause analysis, and continuous performance improvement throughout the product lifecycle.
• Participate in DFMEA, reliability analysis, and NPI validation for motion‑critical subsystems.
• Interface with motion component vendors to evaluate solutions and optimize cost vs. performance trade‑offs.

Key Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechatronics, Mechanical, Electrical, or Control Systems Engineering; advanced qualifications a strong plus.
• 8-10 years of relevant experience in high‑precision motion system design in semiconductor capital equipment, advanced automation, or robotics.
• Deep understanding of servo tuning, PID control, trajectory planning, and motion optimization techniques.
• Experience with vibration modelling, isolation system design, and structural dynamics analysis (e.g., modal testing, FEA, or simulation tools).
• Hands‑on experience with motion controllers (e.g., Omron Delta Tau, Beckhoff, ACS, or similar) and high-performance feedback systems (encoders, laser interferometers, capacitive sensors).
• Strong grasp of system dynamics, stiffness tuning, and noise cancellation strategies.
• Familiarity with real‑time control integration, vision/motion synchronization, and coordination with software teams.
• Strong analytical and debugging skills with a hands‑on mindset and systems‑level thinking.
• Clear communication skills with a collaborative, cross‑functional working style.
• Exposure to NPI and productization processes including system validation, testing, and documentation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in both English and Mandarin (for working with clients and vendors in the region).
• Willing to travel 25% time during new product transition and supplier engagement periods.

Why Join Galatek?

• Breakthrough Impact: Work on cutting‑edge technology directly shaping the future of autonomous and intelligent manufacturing.
• High-Growth Culture: Thrive in a collaborative, fast‑paced start‑up environment with rapid career advancement opportunities.
• World‑Class Tools: Access the latest design infrastructure, state‑of‑the‑art laboratory environments, and collaborate with a highly talented international team.
• Competitive Package: Enjoy a highly comprehensive benefits package, flexible and agile work practices, and a culture where engineering precision is celebrated.
• Regulatory Compliance: This position is governed in strict accordance with the Singapore Employment Act and all prevailing workplace regulations.
• Fair Employment Practices: Galatek is committed to the Tripartite Guidelines on Fair Employment Practices (TAFEP). We evaluate all applicants fairly based on merit, skills, experience, and competency for the role, without regard to race, religion, gender, age, marital status, or disability.
• Work Authorization: Candidates must possess or be eligible for valid work authorization in Singapore. Galatek will assist qualified global talent with standard Ministry of Manpower (MOM) work pass applications where applicable.