Senior Systems Engineer

Onto Innovation; Milpitas (CA); On-site; USD 130,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Onto Innovation is seeking a Senior Systems Engineer to develop and optimize optical metrology technologies for semiconductor applications. You will collaborate with software, hardware, and applications teams to define specs and validate performance across complex optical systems.

The role involves on-site work in Milpitas, CA, plus up to 20% international travel, and the creation of procedures and training for local engineering teams.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Engineering or Sciences with a focus on optical physics.
• 5+ years of semiconductor capital equipment engineering experience, preferably metrology.
• Experience in applications development using spectroscopic ellipsometric tools.
• Experience in integrating precision optical and optomechanical components.
• Proficiency in data analysis using Python, Matlab, etc.
• Excellent analytical capability for troubleshooting.
• Possess good interpersonal skills and willingness to work in a team environment.
• Experience working on prototype systems in a hands-on laboratory setting.
• New product development and support in the semiconductor space.

Responsibilities

• Alignment, optimization, and validation of complex optical systems
• Development of best operational methods for tool performance optimization
• Design and conduct experiments to characterize, troubleshoot, and improve optical metrology systems
• Develop plans of action, and execute in a timely manner
• Generate both internal and external technical presentations
• Clearly communicate requirements and specifications to cross functional teams

Skills

Data analysis

Programming (Python)

Mathematical modeling

Education

Ph.D. in Engineering or Sciences (optical physics)

Tools

Spectroscopic ellipsometry

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 efficient.

Job Summary & Responsibilities The core responsibilities of the Senior Systems Engineer are to develop new optical metrology technologies, to optimize the performance of existing metrology products, and to communicate those optimization results and methods to the field. The successful candidate will interface with cross functional engineering teams, e.g. software, hardware, and applications scientists, to generate specifications and performance requirements that guide systems development. They will also design and perform experiments that validate those requirements have been met and provide guidance on implementation improvements where needed. Additional responsibilities include support for on site installation of first in fab metrology tools, initial tool matching efforts of those systems, and the generation of procedures and training documents to educate local engineering teams. This will require international travel of up to 20%.

Roles & Responsibilities

• Alignment, optimization, and validation of complex optical systems
• Development of best operational methods for tool performance optimization
• Design and conduct experiments to characterize, troubleshoot, and improve optical metrology systems
• Develop plans of action, and execute in a timely manner
• Generate both internal and external technical presentations
• Clearly communicate requirements and specifications to cross functional teams

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Engineering or Sciences with a focus on optical physics
• >5 years experience in a semiconductor capital equipment engineering role, preferably metrology
• Experience in applications development using spectroscopic ellipsometric tools
• Experience in the integration of precision optical and optomechanical components
• Proficiency in data analysis using various programming/scripting tools (Python, Matlab, etc.)
• Excellent analytical capability for systematic troubleshooting
• Possess good interpersonal skills and willing to work in a team environment
• Experience working on prototype systems in a hands‑on laboratory setting
• New product development and support in the semiconductor space

This will require international travel of up to 20%.

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: $ - $, 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).

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 help 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 efficient.

Headquartered in Wilmington, Massachusetts, Onto Innovation supports customers with a worldwide sales and service organization. Additional information can be found at http://www.ontoinnovation.com.