Lead Embedded Software Engineer (Machine Control/Linux/C/C++)

KLA; Milpitas (CA); On-site; USD 159,500 - 271,200; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(K) with company matching

Tuition reimbursement program

Wellness benefits including EAP

Job summary

KLA is seeking a Lead Embedded Software Engineer in Milpitas, CA to spearhead the development of software for advanced reticle inspection systems. This role requires strong expertise in C/C++ and the ability to mentor junior engineers.

Ideal candidates will have 8+ years of experience in embedded software development with a focus on real-time systems. KLA emphasizes innovation and offers comprehensive benefits, including a performance incentive program.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of working experience in embedded software development.
• Strong knowledge of Linux/RTOS environment and multi-threading.
• Excellent communication skills and team collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of software/firmware for machine control.
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams to build integrated solutions.
• Mentor junior engineers and drive best software practices.

Skills

C/C++ programming

Software debugging

Real-time systems

Communication protocols

Analytical capabilities

Education

MS in Electrical Engineering/Computer Science/Control Systems

Tools

Linux

RTOS

Job description

Company Overview

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. No laptop, smartphone, wearable device, voice‑controlled gadget, flexible screen, VR device or smart car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits, packaging, printed circuit boards and flat panel displays. The innovative ideas and devices that are advancing humanity all begin with inspiration, research and development. KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem‑solvers work together with the world’s leading technology providers to accelerate the delivery of tomorrow’s electronic devices. Life here is exciting and our teams thrive on tackling really hard problems. There is never a dull moment with us.

Group / Division

With over 40 years of semiconductor process control experience, chipmakers around the globe rely on KLA to ensure that their fabs ramp next‑generation devices to volume production quickly and cost‑effectively. Enabling the movement towards advanced chip design, KLA’s Global Products Group (GPG), which is responsible for creating all of KLA’s metrology and inspection products, is looking for the best and the brightest research scientists, software engineers, application development engineers, and senior product technology process engineers. The RAPID division is the world leading provider of reticle inspection solutions for the semiconductor industry. The company provides inspection solutions to both the mask shops and the semiconductor fabs to ensure that lithography yields are consistently high, thus enabling cost‑effective manufacturing.

Job Description

Your Role: Lead, Innovate, Grow

• We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Lead Embedded Software Engineer to join our dynamic team within the RAPID division. In this role, you will be instrumental in designing, developing, and sustaining the complex embedded software that powers our industry‑leading reticle inspection systems. You will provide technical leadership, mentor team members, and contribute significantly to the architecture and implementation of real‑time control systems, sensor image capture pipelines, and hardware interfaces.
• We are looking for exceptional technical leaders who are eager to influence team direction, strengthen leadership capabilities, and contribute to project planning and execution. You will have opportunities to drive technical decisions, mentor others, and play a key role in shaping successful project outcomes.

Job Responsibilities

• Lead the Charge: Spearhead the design, development, and deployment of complex software/firmware for machine control in semiconductor inspection systems. Project involves demanding real‑time embedded applications developed using C/C++ for electro‑mechanical control system running on a real‑time operating system (RTOS) such as real‑time Linux, VxWorks for a high‑reliability application.
• Architect the Future: Design and implement robust, scalable software for system control, high‑speed data acquisition, image processing, and intricate hardware interaction. Understand system level requirements and translate them into software design and implementation.
• Collaborate Across Boundaries: Work shoulder‑to‑shoulder with brilliant minds in multidisciplinary areas like mechanical, systems engineering, electrical, optics, opto‑mech, algorithms, and applications to build truly integrated solutions.
• Mentor and Inspire: Guide junior engineers, share your expertise, and cultivate a team environment focused on technical excellence and growth.
• Drive Best Practices: Champion modern software development methodologies (Agile, CI/CD, automated testing) to ensure quality and efficiency. Define and execute test plans to measure the performance of key subsystems. Document, analyze and present the testing results.
• Solve Tough Problems: Dive deep to troubleshoot complex system‑level issues and optimize performance‑critical software.
• Shape the Strategy: Contribute to project planning, risk management, and technical roadmap discussions. Participate in all stages of development, including design, implementation, deployment, testing and troubleshooting.

Required Skills & Qualification

• MS in Electrical Engineering/Computer Science/Control Systems or similar fields.
• 8+ years of working experience in an industrial environment in the field of embedded software development.
• Strong knowledge of C/C++ programming, Object‑Oriented Design & Programming (OOD & OOP).
• Strong knowledge of Linux/RTOS OS environment, multi‑threading, synchronization and SW architecture design.
• Knowledge of communication protocols like Serial‑RS232, Ethernet/EtherCAT/TCP‑IP socket/network communication and related programming.
• The candidate should have strong analytical capabilities, strong written and verbal communication, and interpersonal skills to communicate and present your software design for reviews. Must demonstrate perseverance and ability to work collaboratively within a team setting.
• Excellent communication skills. Self‑motivated to excel in responsible tasks. Possess high curiosity, be a fast learner, and have the drive to turn prototype ideas into quality production code used in mission critical applications.
• Strong software debugging and troubleshooting skills are required.

Preferred (nice to have) Skills

• Hands on experience and laboratory exposure to electrical, mechanical and optical measurement instruments.
• Experience in semiconductor fab operations/manufacturing technology.
• Linux administration knowledge and UML knowledge.
• Knowledge of Python or other scripting language.
• Knowledge of motion control system with Stepper/Servo/Piezo motors, servo control loop (e.g., PID), classical or modern control theory.
• Systems thinking based on first principle and physics.
• Project planning and management skills.

Minimum Qualifications

Doctorate (Academic) Degree and related work experience of 3 years; Master’s Level Degree and related work experience of 6 years; Bachelor’s Level Degree and related work experience of 8 years.

Compensation

Base Pay Range: $159,500.00 - $271,200.00 Annually.

Location

Primary Location: USA-CA-Milpitas-KLA.

Benefits

KLA’s total rewards package for employees may also include participation in performance incentive programs and eligibility for additional benefits including but not limited to: medical, dental, vision, life, and other voluntary benefits, 401(K) including company matching, employee stock purchase program (ESPP), student debt assistance, 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, and family care and bonding leave. Interns are eligible for some of the benefits listed. The pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Actual pay depends on several factors, including state minimum pay wage rates, location, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education level or training. We are committed to complying with all applicable federal and state minimum wage requirements where applicable.

Equal Opportunity Employer

KLA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will ensure that qualified individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us at [e-mail] or at [phone] to request accommodation.