Senior Applications Scientist

Onto Innovation; Milpitas (CA); On-site; USD 115,000 - 173,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

401(k) plan

ESPP

Wellness program

Job summary

Onto Innovation is a leader in process control. We seek a scientist to drive metrology solutions development, lead advanced laboratory research, and collaborate on XRAY applications for materials and CD-SAXS.

You will travel to domestic and international locations to support customers and partners, and contribute to publications and patents. Applicants should hold a PhD in a relevant field and excel in modeling, data analysis, and optical simulation, with strong communication and teamwork

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or above in Materials Science, Optics, Physics, Chemistry, Electrical, Mechanical or Chemical Engineering, or Computer Science.
• Experience with software modeling/statistics/data analysis/fitting concept software (Matlab, Python, etc.). Optical simulation experience highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of semiconductor device structures and applications, preferably including Logic, GAA, DRAM, NAND, and/or advanced thin-film structures.
• Ability to troubleshoot problems to root cause and thoroughly test solutions.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Drive metrology solutions development cycle, advancing technology to address evolving needs.
• Initiate the design, development, execution and implementation of scientific research projects.
• Plan and execute laboratory research.
• Collaborate on XRAY solutions (materials and CD-SAXS) from Applications Development.
• Support high level applications of complex measurement systems in manufacturing semiconductor devices.
• Coordinate interdepartmental activities and research efforts as needed.
• Serve as technical liaison between customer teams and internal AI/ML, Software, and Engineering teams.
• Develop validation methodologies, test cases, and technical documentation for new capabilities.

Skills

Matlab

Python

Optical simulation

Data analysis

Education

Ph.D. or above in Materials Science, Optics, Physics, Chemistry, Electrical, Mechanical or Chemical Engineering, or Computer science

Job description

Onto Innovation is a leader in process control, combining global scale with an expanded portfolio of leading-edge technologies that include: 3D metrology spanning the chip from nanometer-scale transistors to micron-level die-interconnects; macro defect inspection of wafers and packages; metal interconnect composition; factory analytics; and lithography for advanced semiconductor packaging. Our breadth of offerings across the entire semiconductor value chain helps our customers solve their most difficult yield, device performance, quality, and reliability issues. Onto Innovation strives to optimize customers’ critical path of progress by making them smarter, faster and more efficient.

Job Summary & Responsibilities

• Drive our metrology solutions development cycle, advancing our technology to address our customers evolving needs.
• Initiate the design, development, execution and implementation of scientific research projects. Investigate the feasibility of applying scientific principles and concepts to potential inventions and products. Plan and execute laboratory research.
• Work closely with our partners and own the collaboration on XRAY solutions (materials and CD-SAXS) from the Applications Development side
• Support high level applications of complex measurement systems used in manufacturing semiconductor devices and integrated circuits. Collaboration and support will result in solutions for complex multi-layer thin film measurements and optical critical dimension measurements for the most advanced technology nodes.
• Participate in development of patent applications. May coordinate interdepartmental activities and research efforts.
• Serve as the technical liaison between customer Applications teams and internal AI/ML, Software, and Engineering teams.
• Develop validation methodologies, test cases, acceptance criteria, and technical documentation for new capabilities.
• Produce technical paper publications and will train customers on technical topics. To carry out this role you will need to travel to domestic and international locations to work with our customers and collaborators

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or above in Materials Science, Optics, Physics, Chemistry, Electrical, Mechanical or Chemical Engineering, or Computer science
• Experience with software modeling/statistics/data analysis/ fitting concept software (Matlab, Python, ect.). Optical simulation experience highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of semiconductor device structures and applications, preferably including Logic, GAA, DRAM, NAND, and/or advanced thin-film structures.
• Ability to systemically troubleshoot problems to root cause and identify and thoroughly test solutions
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Possess good interpersonal skills and willing to work in a team
• Excellent project and time management skills
• Participate on conference calls across time zones globally
• Fresh graduates with Ph. D degree will be encouraged to apply this job as well

Why Join Onto Innovation?

At Onto Innovation, we believe your work should matter—and so should your well-being. That’s why we offer competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family. From health, dental, and vision coverage to life and disability insurance, PTO, and a 401(k) with employer match, we’ve got you covered. You’ll also enjoy access to our Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), wellness initiatives, and cutting-edge tools—all within a collaborative, inclusive culture where your contributions are valued and recognized.

Compensation & Growth

Base Salary Range:

$115,200.00 - $172,800.00, offered in good faith and based on experience, location, and qualifications.

• Additional Rewards: Annual bonus opportunities and potential long-term incentives tied to both company and individual success.

Empowering Every Voice to Shape the Future:

Onto Innovation is committed to creating a workplace where every qualified candidate has an equal opportunity to succeed. We evaluate applicants based on skills, experience, and potential - without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We believe diversity of thought and background drives innovation and strengthens our team.

Important Note on Export Compliance

For certain positions requiring access to technical data, U.S. export licensing review may be necessary for applicants who are not U.S. Citizens, Permanent Residents, or other protected persons under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).