Software Quality Assurance Engineer

Axcelis Technologies, Inc.; Beverly (MA); On-site; USD 79,000 - 118,000; Full time

Job summary

Axcelis Technologies, Inc. is seeking a Software Quality Assurance (SQA) Engineer to validate software for ion implantation systems used in semiconductor wafer processing.

You will lead system-level verification, test planning, execution, and defect investigation while ensuring releases meet quality requirements. The role requires experience with complex electro-mechanical systems, structured testing, and collaboration with software, systems, and hardware teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Physical Sciences, or a related technical discipline.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with software, systems, and hardware engineering teams to review product requirements and ensure test coverage.
• Develop, maintain, and execute test plans and test cases that validate software functionality, system performance and end-to-end customer scenarios.
• Verify software and system requirements through structured testing and documented results.
• Validate software installation procedures for internal use and customer releases.
• Operate ion implantation equipment and simulation platforms to perform system-level software validation.
• Investigate issues identified during testing, collect supporting data and logs, assist with root cause analysis, and verify corrective actions.
• Document defects in the defect tracking system with clear problem descriptions, reproduction steps, supporting evidence, and expected results.
• Maintain accurate records of test execution, results, risks, and quality metrics.
• Participate in software release readiness reviews and quality assessments.
• Work in a cleanroom environment while following all required cleanroom protocols and safety procedures.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Analytical thinking

Troubleshooting

Test planning

Requirements interpretation

Software testing methodologies

Defect tracking

Team collaboration

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION Software Quality Assurance (SQA) Engineer

Position Summary The Software Quality Assurance (SQA) Engineer is responsible for validating software used to control Axcelis ion implantation systems for semiconductor wafer processing. This role focuses on system-level software verification, test planning and execution, defect investigation, and ensuring software releases meet quality and customer requirements. The ideal candidate has experience working with complex electro-mechanical systems, structured testing methodologies, and cross-functional engineering teams. This position requires strong analytical and communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to operate ion implantation equipment in a laboratory and cleanroom environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with software, systems, and hardware engineering teams to review product requirements and ensure test coverage.
• Develop, maintain, and execute test plans and test cases that validate software functionality, system performance and end-to-end customer scenarios.
• Verify software and system requirements through structured testing and documented results.
• Validate software installation procedures for internal use and customer releases.
• Operate ion implantation equipment and simulation platforms to perform system-level software validation.
• Investigate issues identified during testing, collect supporting data and logs, assist with root cause analysis, and verify corrective actions.
• Document defects in the defect tracking system with clear problem descriptions, reproduction steps, supporting evidence, and expected results.
• Maintain accurate records of test execution, results, risks, and quality metrics.
• Participate in software release readiness reviews and quality assessments.
• Work in a cleanroom environment while following all required cleanroom protocols and safety procedures.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to clearly document test results and technical issues.
• Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to interpret software requirements and translate them into effective test cases.
• Experience with software testing methodologies, defect tracking systems, and test documentation.
• Ability to identify, document, and communicate system-level hardware and software issues.
• Experience working with complex electro-mechanical equipment or industrial systems.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with semiconductor manufacturing equipment, ion implantation systems, or other capital equipment used in semiconductor fabrication.
• Knowledge of semiconductor manufacturing processes and industry practices.
• Familiarity with factory automation standards such as SECS/GEM.
• Experience with software validation, system integration testing, or customer workflow testing.
• Understanding of hardware/software interactions in industrial control systems.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Physical Sciences, or a related technical discipline. Equivalent combination of education and relevant experience will also be considered.

Job Location

Beverly, MA 100% Onsite

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT

It is the policy of Axcelis to provide equal opportunity in all areas of employment for all persons free from discrimination based on race, sex, religion, age, color, national origin, disability status, medical condition (including pregnancy), veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Axcelis will provide reasonable accommodation necessary to enable a disabled candidate or employee to perform the essential functions of the position, unless the accommodation would create an undue hardship for the Company.

U.S. BASE SALARY RANGE

U.S. BASE SALARY RANGE $78,789.48 - $118,184.22 This base salary range reflects the typical compensation for this role across U.S. locations. Our salary ranges are determined by role and level; individual pay is determined based on multiple factors, including job-related skills, experience, relevant education or training, work location, and internal equity. The range provides the opportunity for growth and progression as you develop within the role. Base pay is one part of our U.S. total compensation package which includes eligibility in the Axcelis Team Incentive bonus plan, and comprehensive benefits package (for regular employees working 20+ hours a week).

Want to discover just how far your intellectual curiosity can take you? You’re in the right place. For more than four decades, Axcelis Technologies has been at the forefront of innovation in semiconductor manufacturing technology. Chipmakers around the globe rely on our tools and process expertise to deliver the semiconductors that power modern life—from smartphones and computers to cameras and cars. Our influence is global, with over 30 locations, an installed base of thousands worldwide and a customer list that includes the world’s largest semiconductor manufacturers. Ready to unleash your full potential? Discover just how far you can go, at Axcelis.