Electron Optics Engineer

PDF Solutions; Milpitas (CA); On-site; USD 145,000 - 155,000; Full time

Job summary

PDF Solutions is seeking an Electron Optics Engineer in Milpitas, CA to lead design, simulation, and testing of state-of-the-art eProbe electron beam inspection systems used in semiconductor wafer manufacturing.

You will collaborate with software, systems, electrical, mechanical and manufacturing teams to deliver high-quality results in a multi-disciplinary environment.

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics, Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science or related field with 5+ years of relevant experience.
• Expertise in electron optics and design/operation of electron beam columns.
• Experience in simulation and experimental characterization of electron sources.
• Proficiency with electron optics simulation software (MEBS, SIMION).
• Experience with finite element packages (COMSOL, OPERA).
• Proficiency in scripting languages (Python, Matlab).
• Experience with high vacuum systems and high voltage electron beam electronics.
• Background in surface science and electron-surface interactions.
• Experience with semiconductor manufacturing tools.

Responsibilities

• Simulate electron optics columns and validate models with measurements.
• Develop new column operation modes and architecture improvements.
• Create test methodologies and analyze experimental data.
• Translate findings into actionable product/process/algorithm changes.
• Define system requirements, error budgets and tolerance stacks.
• Specify acceptance tests for critical column components.
• Troubleshoot electron optics, imaging, vacuum and electronics issues.
• Improve characterization methods and analysis workflows.
• Collaborate with software, systems, electrical, mechanical and manufacturing teams.
• Publish technical reports and share findings with stakeholders.
• Drive R&D and technology development for next-gen tools.

Skills

Electron optics

Simulation expertise

Python/ Matlab

Vacuum systems

High voltage electronics

Surface science

Semiconductor tools

Education

PhD in Physics or related field

Tools

MEBS

SIMION

COMSOL

OPERA

Job description

Overview

PDF Solutions is redefining the way the semiconductor industry approaches data, analytics, and experience design. As part of our journey, we’re building Next gen platform — a modern, human-centered analytics platform. We believe design systems aren’t just about consistency — they’re about scalability, collaboration, and performance.

PDF Solutions is seeking an Electron Optics Engineer to drive the R&D, manufacturing and delivery of state-of-the-art eProbe electron beam inspection systems used in semiconductor wafer manufacturing facilities for yield ramp and manufacturing control. The electron optics engineer will be responsible for leading the design and simulation of electron beam inspection systems from concept to high volume manufacturing. A successful candidate will be a highly motivated and self-driven team player with strong analytical skills and possess the drive to deliver high quality results in a dynamic, multi-disciplined and highly productive environment.

Responsibilities

• Simulate electron optics columns and validate models using experimental measurements
• Develop new modes of column operation and drive column architecture design improvements
• Develop test methodologies, collect experimental data and analyze data sets
• Convert findings into clear recommendations for product, process, or algorithm changes
• Create system requirements, error budgets and tolerance analysis stack-ups
• Define specifications and acceptance tests for critical column components
• Diagnose and resolve complex issues involving electron optics, imaging systems, vacuum systems, and electronics
• Contribute to continuous improvement of characterization methods, analysis workflows, and tool capabilities
• Collaborate with software, systems, electrical, mechanical and manufacturing teams
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports and share findings with internal collaborators
• Drive innovation and technology development for next-generation tools

Qualifications

Must-Have Skills & Experience

• PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field, and over 5 years of relevant work experience
• Expertise in electron optics and a proven track record in designing and operating electron beam columns
• Experience in simulation and experimental characterization of electron sources
• Proficiency with electron optics simulation software (eg. MEBS, SIMION)
• Experience running finite element software packages (e.g. COMSOL, OPERA)
• Proficiency with a scripting language (e.g. Python, Matlab)
• Experience with high vacuum systems
• Experience with high voltage power supplies and electron beam electronics
• Background in surface science and electron-surface interactions
• Experience working with semiconductor manufacturing tools

Nice to Have

• Prior experience with voltage contrast imaging
• Semiconductor process or cleanroom exposure
• Background in signal or image processing

Pay Range

USD $145,000.00 - USD $155,000.00 /Yr.