Senior Algorithm Engineer

KLA-Belgium; Milpitas (CA); On-site; USD 136,000 - 232,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) matching

Employee stock purchase program

Job summary

KLA is seeking a Senior Algorithm Engineer to join the Surfscan division in Milpitas, CA. You will develop advanced algorithms for wafer inspection, focusing on image and signal processing, AI techniques, and production-grade software across the full lifecycle.

Qualifications include a PhD in EE/CS/Physics or equivalent, plus expertise in C/C++, MATLAB/Python, and GPU programming. Collaboration with a global interdisciplinary team is essential.

Qualifications

• Doctorate (Academic) Degree and 0 years related work experience; Master's Level Degree and related work experience of 3 years; Bachelor's Level Degree and related work experience of 5 years.
• Proven track record in image segmentation, texture analysis, classification, feature extraction, and statistical data analysis.
• Strong knowledge of signal processing, filter theory, machine learning, and deep learning; proficiency in C/C++, Matlab/Python.

Responsibilities

• Develop image, signal processing and AI algorithms for optical inspection and metrology systems.
• Model, prototype, and implement production software; characterize performance and document results.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams for prototyping and testing across the life cycle of algorithms.

Skills

Image processing

Algorithm development

C/C++

Matlab/Python

GPU programming

CPU optimization

Machine learning

Deep learning

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication

Education

Doctorate in EE/CS/Physics

Master's degree

Bachelor's degree

Tools

CUDA

Job description

Company Overview

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 scientist, software engineers, application development engineers, and senior product technology process engineers. The Surfscan group includes a team of engineers, technology development, apps engineers and product marketing focused on technology that enables wafer, IC and equipment manufacturers to develop, qualify and monitor their process tools. Defects and process non‑uniformities detected on Surfscan equipment allow for early identification of yield excursions. The flagship Surfscan products include the SPx platforms for wafer surface quality and wafer defect inspection tools and systems for inspection of polished wafers, epi wafers and engineered substrates during the wafer fabrication process.

Job Description

KLA is seeking a highly motivated Senior Algorithm Engineer to join the Surfscan division, where you will be part of a collaborative team developing advanced algorithms that power industry‑leading wafer inspection solutions!

What You'll Do

This role focuses on the development of image, signal processing and artificial intelligence algorithms for the next generations of optical inspection and metrology systems. The responsibilities of this position cover the entire life cycle of algorithms, including modeling, proof‑of‑concept design, production software design and implementation, performance characterization, documentation and user support. Since algorithms can affect many aspects of the system, a significant amount of time will be spent on cross‑function team collaboration for prototyping and testing.

Preferred Qualifications

This role requires a proven innovative track record and solid fundamental knowledge in the related fields of algorithm development, including image segmentation, texture analysis, classification, feature extraction, statistical data analysis, signal processing, filter theory, machine learning, deep learning. C/C++, Matlab/Python programming skills are must have. CPU optimization (SSE/AVX) and GPU (CUDA) programming are among the highly desired skills too. The candidate needs to be a self‑motivated individual with ability to work independently and/or in a team. Strong written and verbal communications skills are needed for extensive interactions with members of a multi‑disciplinary global team. Ph.D. degree in EE, CS, and Physics with strong experience in algorithm development is preferred.

Minimum Qualifications: Doctorate (Academic) Degree and 0 years related work experience; Master's Level Degree and related work experience of 3 years; Bachelor's Level Degree and related work experience of 5 years.

Base Pay Range

Base Pay Range: $136,300.00 - $231,700.00 Annually

Primary Location

USA-CA-Milpitas-KLA

Benefits and Rewards Package

• 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.

Recruiting Process

KLA follows a recruiting process that involves multiple interviews in person or on video conferencing with our hiring managers. If applicable, your recruiter can share more about the specific pay range for your preferred location during the hiring process. We take your privacy very seriously and confidentially handle your information.

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.

We do not accept resumes from headhunters, placement agencies, or other suppliers that have not signed a formal agreement with us.