Senior Optical Systems Engineer (Semiconductor Metrology)

Axcelis Technologies, Inc.; Beverly (MA); On-site; USD 132,000 - 198,000; Full time

Job summary

Axcelis Technologies, Inc. is seeking an Optical Systems Engineer to lead the development of advanced optical and opto-mechanical systems for semiconductor equipment and metrology applications.

This hands-on role requires translating complex physics into manufacturable systems and collaborating across mechanical, electrical, software, and process teams. The ideal candidate has an MS/PhD in a relevant field, 8+ years of experience, and strong skills in optics, imaging, and photonics.

Qualifications

• M.S. or Ph.D. in Optical Engineering, Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• 8+ years of experience developing complex optical systems.
• Strong understanding of geometrical optics; physical optics; imaging systems; lasers and photonics; and optical metrology.
• Experience moving systems from concept through prototype and validation.
• Experience developing optical test methods and calibration techniques.
• Strong data analysis and problem-solving skills.
• Programming experience with MATLAB, Python, or similar scientific computing tools.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal technical guidance.

Responsibilities

• Lead the architecture, design, analysis, and development of optical systems for semiconductor manufacturing and metrology applications.
• Develop novel optical approaches for process monitoring, wafer alignment, implant verification, materials characterization, and related applications.
• Perform optical modeling, simulation, tolerancing, and performance analysis using appropriate engineering tools.
• Design and specify optical subsystems, including: Lasers and illumination systems; Polarization optics; Imaging systems; Spectroscopic systems; Sensors and detectors; and Optical assemblies and calibration methodologies.
• Build and evaluate proof-of-concept systems and engineering prototypes.
• Develop experimental plans, execute measurements, analyze data, and draw conclusions from complex physical phenomena.
• Convert laboratory concepts into robust, manufacturable systems suitable for semiconductor production environments.
• Define system requirements and performance budgets.
• Work closely with mechanical, electrical, software, controls, and process engineers to implement complete solutions.
• Support vendor selection and development of custom optical components and assemblies.
• Troubleshoot optical, mechanical, and system-level issues during development and deployment.
• Generate technical documentation, design reviews, specifications, test procedures, and engineering reports.
• Evaluate intellectual property, technical risks, and competitive technologies related to optical systems.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship in optical engineering across the organization.

Job description

Axcelis Technologies, Inc. is seeking an Optical Systems Engineer to lead the development of advanced optical and opto-mechanical systems for semiconductor equipment and metrology applications.

This hands-on role requires translating complex physics into manufacturable systems and collaborating across mechanical, electrical, software, and process teams. The ideal candidate has an MS/PhD in a relevant field, 8+ years of experience, and strong skills in optics, imaging, and photonics.