Research Scientist

KLA; Ann Arbor Charter Township (MI); On-site; USD 105,900 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision benefits

401(K) with company matching

Employee stock purchase program

Tuition reimbursement program

Wellness benefits including EAP

Job summary

KLA is seeking a Research Scientist for its CTO group in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The candidate will engage in semiconductor physics and optics, developing technologies that advance electronic devices.

The ideal candidate holds a Ph.D. and has experience with optical and electronic device test benches, along with strong collaborative and communication skills. The role also includes competitive salary and benefits, fostering a supportive environment for innovation and research.

Qualifications

• Solid understanding of semiconductor physics and optoelectronics.
• Experience in optical phenomena and materials characterization.
• Ability to design and operate optical testing setups.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in semiconductor physics and optical testing.
• Design and operate test benches for light-matter interactions.
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues on project goals.

Skills

Semiconductor physics

Optics

Light-matter interactions

Device test bench design

Optoelectronic device simulations

Vacuum-based equipment

Materials characterization methods

Interpersonal skills

Education

Ph.D. in physics, materials science, electrical engineering or related fields

Tools

Zemax

COMSOL

Lumerical

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

We are looking for a Research Scientist to join our CTO group in Ann Arbor, Michigan!

Requirements

• Background in semiconductor physics, optics, light‑matter interactions, and semiconductor processing
• Experienced with designing, building, and operating optical and electronic device test benches to probe light‑matter interactions
• Experienced in optical and optoelectronic device physics simulations (Zemax, COMSOL, Lumerical, etc.)
• Experienced in designing, building, and operating vacuum‑based equipment
• Experienced with various materials characterization and spectroscopic methods
• Proactive collaborator with strong interpersonal skills, a hands‑on approach, and the ability to effectively communicate technical concepts both in writing and verbally to enable technology roadmap

Minimum Qualifications

Ph.D. in physics, materials science, electrical engineering or related fields in optoelectronic devices

Base Pay Range: $105,900.00 - $180,000.00 Annually. Primary Location: USA-MI-Ann Arbor. 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.

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 +1‑408‑352‑2808 to request accommodation.

Be aware of potentially fraudulent job postings or suspicious recruiting activity by persons that are currently posing as KLA employees. KLA never asks for any financial compensation to be considered for an interview, to become an employee, or for equipment. Further, KLA does not work with any recruiters or third parties who charge such fees either directly or on behalf of KLA. Please ensure that you have searched KLA’s Careers website for legitimate job postings. KLA follows a recruiting process that involves multiple interviews in person or on video conferencing with our hiring managers. If you are concerned that a communication, an interview, an offer of employment, or that an employee is not legitimate, please send an email to [e-mail] to confirm the person you are communicating with is an employee. We take your privacy very seriously and confidentially handle your information.