Principal Algorithms Engineer (physics)

ASML US, LLC; San Jose (CA); Hybrid; USD 227,000 - 312,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work

Travel opportunities

Job summary

ASML US, LLC in San Jose seeks a Principal Physics Algorithms Engineer to lead architecture, development, and deployment of physics-based modeling for e-beam semiconductor inspection systems.

You will collaborate with CV/ML teams to integrate physics methods with AI-driven solutions, while guiding technology roadmaps and mentoring engineers. Hybrid work is available with domestic/international collaboration.

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
• 8+ years of experience developing advanced algorithms, simulation technologies, or computational modeling solutions.
• Demonstrated technical leadership and a track record of driving innovation from concept to product deployment.
• Experience influencing technical direction across multiple projects or teams.
• Semiconductor industry experience strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of advanced physics-based modeling and simulation technologies (SEM image formation, electron-beam interactions, voltage contrast).
• Define technical direction and architecture for simulation frameworks supporting next-generation inspection algorithms.
• Partner with computer vision and machine learning teams to integrate physics-based methods with AI-driven solutions.
• Drive innovation through research, prototyping, and technology development for future inspection products.
• Translate complex physical phenomena into scalable, production-quality software.
• Influence technology roadmaps and strategic technical decisions across engineering teams.
• Lead junior engineers and foster a culture of technical excellence.

Skills

Physics-based modeling

Computer vision

Machine learning/AI

High-performance computing

C++, CUDA, Python

Scientific computing

Communication skills

Cross-team influence

Education

PhD in Physics or related field

Tools

CUDA

Python

C++

Job description

Introduction to the job

ASML / HMI is seeking a Principal Physics Algorithms Engineer to help define and develop the next generation of physics-based technologies for e-beam semiconductor inspection systems. As a senior technical leader within a newly formed Physics Algorithms Engineering team, you will drive the architecture, development, and deployment of advanced modeling and simulation capabilities spanning SEM image formation, electron-beam interactions, voltage contrast, and related physical phenomena. These technologies are foundational to both traditional and AI-driven inspection solutions and play a critical role in advancing the performance and capabilities of ASML's inspection portfolio. This is a high-impact individual contributor role that combines scientific innovation, technical leadership, algorithm development, and cross-functional influence. You will work across organizational boundaries to shape technology strategy, solve complex customer challenges, and accelerate the adoption of next-generation inspection methodologies.

Role and responsibilities

• Lead the development of advanced physics-based modeling and simulation technologies, including SEM image formation, electron-beam interactions, voltage contrast, and related phenomena
• Define technical direction and architecture for simulation frameworks that support next-generation inspection algorithms
• Partner with computer vision and machine learning teams to integrate physics-based methods with AI-driven solutions
• Drive innovation through research, prototyping, and technology development in support of future inspection products
• Translate complex physical phenomena into scalable, production-quality software
• Influence technology roadmaps and strategic technical decisions across multiple engineering organizations
• Lead junior engineers and contribute to a culture of technical excellence

Education and experience

• PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related discipline
• 8+ years of experience developing advanced algorithms, simulation technologies, or computational modeling solutions
• Demonstrated technical leadership and a track record of driving innovation from concept to product deployment
• Experience influencing technical direction across multiple projects or teams
• Semiconductor industry experience strongly preferred

Skills

• Physics-based modeling and simulation, including SEM image formation, e-beam interactions, and voltage contrast
• Computer vision and image processing
• Machine learning and AI
• High-performance computing, GPU acceleration, and numerical optimization
• C++, CUDA, Python, and modern software development practices
• Scientific computing and large-scale algorithm development
• Strong technical judgment, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Ability to influence across teams and drive innovation in complex technical environments

Other information

• Hybrid work environment with up to two days per week remote
• Up to 10% international travel, primarily within Asia

The current base annual salary range for this role is currently:

$226,600-311,575

Pay scales are determined by role, level, location and alignment with market data. Individual pay is determined through interviews and an assessment of several factors that that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to job-related skills, relevant education and experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate and pay relative to other team members.

The Company offers employees and their families, medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance. Employees are able to participate in the Company's 401k plan. Employees will also receive eight (8) hours of vacation leave every month and (13) paid holidays throughout the calendar year.

All new ASML jobs have a minimum application deadline of 10 days.

Inclusion and diversity

ASML is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values and respects the importance of a diverse and inclusive workforce. It is the policy of the company to recruit, hire, train and promote persons in all job titles without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We recognize that inclusion and diversity is a driving force in the success of our company.

Request an Accommodation

ASML provides reasonable accommodations to applicants for ASML employment and ASML employees with disabilities. An accommodation is a change in work rules, facilities, or conditions which enable an individual with a disability to apply for a job, perform the essential functions of a job, and/or enjoy equal access to the benefits and privileges of employment. If you are in need of an accommodation to complete an application, participate in an interview, or otherwise participate in the employee pre-selection process, please send an email to [e-mail] to initiate the company's reasonable accommodation process.

Please note: This email address is solely intended to provide a method for applicants to initiate ASML's process to request accommodation(s). Any recruitment questions should be directed to the designated Talent Acquisition member for the position.