Manufacturing Manager

KLA-Belgium; Milpitas (CA); On-site; USD 121,000 - 205,000; Full time

Job summary

KLA Milpitas, CA is seeking a Manufacturing Leader to direct precision integration and qualification of advanced optical inspection systems in a high-mix, low-volume setting. You will guide cycle-time improvements, oversee global sourcing, and lead a cross-functional team through ISO processes and continuous improvement initiatives to deliver quality and on-time production.

Join a team of engineers and technicians focused on innovation in semiconductor equipment manufacturing, fostering a

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field or equivalent experience; 4+ years in manufacturing with at least 3+ years in a leadership role.
• Experience with electromechanical systems, precision assembly, or semiconductor capital equipment manufacturing.
• LEAN manufacturing, continuous improvement, and structured problem-solving (8D, DMAIC).

Responsibilities

• Lead precision integration, alignment, and qualification of optical inspection systems in a high-mix, low-volume environment.
• Drive cycle time reduction, efficiency, and meeting production schedules.
• Oversee global sourcing, offshoring, and outsourcing initiatives.
• Ensure ISO compliance and certification activities.
• Build and lead a high-performing technicians team across mechanical, optical, and electronic assembly.
• Collaborate with Materials, Manufacturing, Build Engineering, and Master Scheduling to resolve production challenges.
• Monitor costs, overtime, and implement cost-reduction initiatives.
• Track KPIs such as yield, cycle time, throughput, and on-time delivery.

Skills

LEAN manufacturing

Team leadership

Continuous improvement

Root cause analysis

Cross-functional collaboration

NPI experience

Education

Bachelor’s degree in STEM

Master’s degree

Tools

DMAIC

8D

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.

Job Description/Preferred Qualifications

Responsibilities

• Lead the precision integration, alignment, and qualification of sophisticated optical inspection systems within a high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environment.
• Cycle time reduction and efficiency optimization
• Global sourcing, offshoring, and outsourcing initiatives
• ISO compliance and certification activities
• Build, develop, and lead a high-performing team of technicians across mechanical, optical, and electronic assembly teams.
• Drive multi-functional resolution of production challenges in close partnership with Materials, Manufacturing Engineering, Build Engineering, and Master Scheduling teams.
• Optimize prioritization (labor, tools, and capacity) to meet production schedules and customer delivery commitments.
• Foster a strong quality culture, ensuring alignment to standards and proactively identifying improvement opportunities.
• Establish manufacturing agility to respond to multifaceted business demands, shifting priorities, and product complexity.
• Monitor and lead operational costs, including overtime control and cost-reduction initiatives.
• Track key performance metrics (yield, cycle time, throughput, on-time delivery) and drive data‑informed decision making.

Qualifications & Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a STEM related field, technical field, or equivalent experience 4+ years of experience in manufacturing, assembly, or production operations, with at least 3+ years in a leadership or supervisory role. Experience supporting sophisticated electromechanical systems, precision assembly, or semiconductor capital equipment manufacturing. Demonstrated experience with New Product Introduction (NPI) and transitioning products from development into production. LEAN manufacturing principles, continuous improvement methodologies, and structured problem-solving (e.g., root cause analysis, 8D, DMAIC).

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in optics, photonics, precision alignment, or inspection system manufacturing. Familiarity with ISO standards (e.g., ISO 9001) and quality management systems. Experience managing global manufacturing operations, including offshore suppliers or contract manufacturers.

Leadership & Functional Skills

Proven track record to lead, coach, and develop technical teams in a fast-paced, high‑precision manufacturing environment. Ability to balance execution with critical thinking, prioritizing short‑term production goals while driving long‑term operational improvements. Excellent communication and collaborator leadership skills across all organizational levels.

Minimum Qualifications

Master’s Level Degree or work experience of 2 years , Bachelor’s Level Degree or work experience of 3 years

Base Pay Range

$120,700.00 - $205,200.00 Annually

Primary Location

USA-CA-Milpitas-KLA

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.

Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed reflects the pay for this position in the primary location identified in this posting. 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.

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.