Optics Technology Manager

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance

401(K) with company matching

Student debt assistance

Tuition reimbursement program

Job summary

KLA in Milpitas is looking for an Optics Technology Manager to join a robust CTO team driving advancements in optical technologies. The ideal candidate will utilize their extensive knowledge in optics to work with technology suppliers and guide development projects ensuring successful transition from R&D to production.

Key responsibilities include developing technology roadmaps, maintaining supplier relationships, and leading collaborative efforts across teams. Candidates must have a PhD or MS in a relevant field with at least 5 years of experience in optics.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of relevant industry experience in optics.
• Technical expertise in areas like design, coating, metrology.
• Ability to travel up to 10% internationally.

Responsibilities

• Develop supplier technology roadmap for KLA.
• Provide leadership with technology suppliers.
• Support technology prototyping and problem solving.

Skills

Optics design

Manufacturing process

Technical communication

Risk assessment

Education

PhD or MS in Physics, Optics, EE

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

The Office of the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) plays a critical role in developing advanced long‑range technology in collaboration with product divisions and strategic marketing, working on future technology like light sources, lasers, and sensors. We are engaged in the research and development process, and once the technology is mature, we partner with product engineering groups who then build products based on the technology we've developed. The Office of the CTO also provides technical input into KLA's strategic planning process, program reviews and Product Life Cycle (PLC) phases. We provide our broad technology expertise and cross‑division experience to ensure we leverage the collective knowledge within our company.

Job Description / Preferred Qualifications

The Optics Technology Manager will join a high‑performing CTO team of technologists driving innovation in sensors, sources, and optics. The program manager will work closely with strategic suppliers in the design, development and manufacturing of advanced optical systems. The program manager will engage with KLA technologist at the architecture stage and provide technical guidance related to technology supplier selection, risk assessment and manufacturability.

• Develop supplier technology roadmap to enable KLA's product roadmap
• Provide leadership and continuity of relationship with technology suppliers
• Be accountable for technology success from R&D to Production
• Drive collaboration between CTO, Engineering, and Operations teams
• Support technology prototyping, problem solving and risk mitigation

Required Qualifications

• PhD or MS in Physics, Optics, EE with a minimum of 5 years relevant industry experience.
• Technical expertise in at least 2 optics areas: design, coating, metrology, optomech, materials
• Collaborative with a strong technical foundation and effective communication skills
• Ability to travel up to 10% internationally

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience with SEMI metrology or litho related companies
• Experience with Technology Supplier Management in Optics, Lasers or SEMI industry
• Knowledge of SEMI DUV/UV optics suppliers, coating equipment manufacturers
• Knowledge of Patent/IP portfolio and Development Agreements
• Knowledge of lasers, laser damage threshold and DUV degradation mechanisms.
• Understanding of photo‑contamination control and cleanroom protocols

Minimum Qualifications

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

Base Pay Range: $159,500.00 - $271,200.00 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. If applicable, your recruiter can share more about the specific pay range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

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.