Algorithm Developer

Applied Materials, Inc.; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 184,000 - 253,000; Full time

Job summary

Applied Materials, Inc. in Santa Clara, CA is seeking a highly talented Algorithm Developer to join our R&D team and help advance next-generation semiconductor inspection technology.

You will work on advanced image-processing and deep-learning algorithms for an e-beam inspection platform, focusing on defect detection, registration, scoring, and electrical defect analysis. You will take ideas from research to production-grade deployment, own end-to-end integration, and collaborate with system

Qualifications

• 5+ years of algorithm R&D experience with deep expertise in image processing, computer vision, deep learning, or related disciplines.
• Extensive production-level algorithm experience is highly valued.
• MSc or PhD in a relevant technical field.
• Proven experience designing and implementing robust, production-grade algorithms.
• Strong experience with image-processing and computer-vision algorithms.
• Desirable: experience with electrical defect analysis algorithms (voltage contrast or failure-mode analysis).
• Hands-on SEM/e-beam inspection or metrology system experience is desirable.
• Ability to move algorithms through research, validation, optimization, integration, and deployment lifecycle.
• Strong software/algorithm infrastructure understanding and collaboration skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities, especially with remote and cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Research, design, and implement advanced algorithms for next-generation e-beam inspection applications.
• Develop registration/ scoring algorithms for Detection, including Image-to-CAD alignment and non-rigid registration.
• Develop algorithms for electrical defect analysis, including voltage contrast and failure-mode analysis.
• Build training capabilities and improve algorithm workflow usability, performance, and robustness.
• Lead production-ready implementation and end-to-end deployment of algorithms.
• Collaborate with image-processing engineers to optimize performance for high-speed inspection.

Skills

5+ years algorithm R&D

Interpersonal skills

Ownership & accountability

Education

MSc/PhD in engineering or CS/Math/Physics

Job description

Who We Are

Applied Materials is the global leader in materials science and engineering solutions that are at the foundation of virtually every new semiconductor chip and advanced display in the world. The equipment that we create and service is essential to advancing AI and accelerating the commercialization of next-generation semiconductor chips. Join us and push the boundaries of materials science and engineering in a company at the foundation of the electronics industry. The work we do together advances the world’s technology.

What We Offer

Salary: $184,000.00 - $253,000.00 Location: Santa Clara,CA You’ll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible—while learning every day in a supportive leading global company.

Visit our Careers website to learn more. At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We’re committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go. Learn more about our benefits.

Job Description

We are looking for a highly talented and experienced Algorithm Developer to join our unique product team and help develop the next generation of semiconductor inspection technology. This role is ideal for an algorithm expert who enjoys taking innovative ideas from early research and proof of concept all the way through robust, production-grade implementation and deployment.

You will work on advanced image-processing and deep-learning algorithms for a next-generation e-beam inspection platform, with a particular focus on defect detection, registration, scoring, and electrical defect analysis.

What’s in it for you?

• Explore, research, and prove out new algorithms for a next-generation e-beam inspection tool.
• Take algorithm concepts from initial research through robust, production-grade solutions.
• Own the deployment and integration of algorithms into the inspection system end to end.
• Solve challenging problems involving semiconductor defect detection, localization, registration, and electrical failure-mode analysis.
• Collaborate closely with system designers, software engineers, application developers, architects, and product teams.

Our Group

We are part of the R&D organization responsible for developing the next generation of software and algorithm solutions that power Applied Materials’ cutting-edge metrology and inspection systems. Our team develops technologies that combine advanced computer vision, deep learning, image processing, and semiconductor inspection expertise to solve complex customer challenges.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Research, design, and implement advanced algorithms for next-generation e-beam inspection applications.
• Develop registration and scoring algorithms for the Detection domain, including Image-to-CAD alignment, non-rigid registration, defect detection, and defect localization.
• Develop algorithms supporting electrical defect analysis, including voltage contrast and electrical failure-mode analysis.
• Build zero-to-low-shot training capabilities and improve algorithm workflow usability, performance, and robustness.
• Take new algorithm concepts from proof of concept through production-ready implementation and deployment.
• Own algorithm deployment into the system and help ensure successful end-to-end integration.
• Partner with image-processing software engineers to optimize algorithm performance and support extremely high-speed inspection applications.
• Work closely with system designers, software engineers, and application developers to develop integrated solutions.
• Collaborate with architecture and product teams to refine requirements and design scalable solutions that address complex customer problems.

What You Should Have

• 5+ years of algorithm R&D experience, with deep expertise in image processing, computer vision, deep learning, or related disciplines.
• More extensive experience developing production-level algorithms is strongly valued.
• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in a relevant engineering, computer science, applied mathematics, physics, or related technical field.
• Proven experience designing and implementing robust, production-grade algorithms, not solely research prototypes.
• Strong experience with image-processing and/or computer-vision algorithms.
• Experience with electrical defect analysis algorithms, including voltage contrast or electrical failure-mode analysis, is highly desirable.
• Hands-on experience with SEM/e-beam inspection or metrology systems in semiconductor production environments is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to move algorithms through the full lifecycle, including research, validation, optimization, integration, and deployment.
• Strong understanding of software and algorithm infrastructure, with the ability to collaborate effectively with engineering teams.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, particularly when collaborating with remote and cross-functional teams.
• A strong sense of accountability and ownership, with the ability to independently drive complex technical initiatives.

Time Type: Full time Employee Type: Assignee / Regular Travel: No Relocation Eligible: No

The salary offered to a selected candidate will be based on multiple factors including location, hire grade, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and with consideration of internal equity of our current team members. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable. For all sales roles, the posted salary range is the Target Total Cash (TTC) range for the role, which is the sum of base salary and target bonus amount at 100% goal achievement.

Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. In addition, Applied endeavors to make our careers site accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact us via e-mail at [e-mail], or by calling our HR Direct Help Line at 877-612-7547, option 1, and following the prompts to speak to an HR Advisor. This contact is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.