Sr. Algorithm Engineer (Image Processing)

KLA; Ann Arbor (MI); Hybrid; USD 105,900 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Dental & vision

401K matching

ESPP

Job summary

KLA is seeking an Image Processing Algorithm Engineer in Michigan to design and optimize advanced image processing and computer vision algorithms for next‑generation semiconductor inspection products. You will prototype in MATLAB/Python and port successful ideas to production‑quality C++ on Linux, collaborating with cross‑functional teams across the lifecycle.

The role emphasizes solving challenging technical requirements, building leadership in the image processing field, and opportunities to

Qualifications

• 1–4 years of work experience in image processing
• Experience prototyping algorithms in MATLAB or Python and implementing in C++ on Linux
• Strong image processing fundamentals and CV experience

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize image processing and CV algorithms for semiconductor inspection products
• Research and evaluate new image processing and ML approaches
• Prototype in MATLAB/Python; translate to production C++ on Linux
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver robust capabilities
• Analyze image data to improve defect detection accuracy and throughput
• Leverage GPU acceleration for high-performance algorithm solutions
• Contribute across full development lifecycle from concept to productization

Skills

Image processing fundamentals

Python

C++ (Linux)

MATLAB

Computer vision

CUDA/GPU programming

Travel willingness

Education

Education requirement (Bachelor+5y / Master+3y / PhD+0y)

Tools

MATLAB

Python

C++

Linux

Job description

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.

Job Description/Preferred Qualifications

Join KLA in Michigan as an Image Processing Algorithm Engineer! Are you passionate about innovating and crafting new algorithms that go beyond pulling off the shelf? We are looking for individuals who are drawn to solving challenging technical requirements and putting forward outstanding and creative solutions with a driven team! Bring your validated experience to build new algorithms for KLA’s innovative inspection products. Help drive creative ideas, implement proof of concepts, productizing and evaluating new algorithms! By providing technical expertise you will be supporting other team members, collaborators, and customers. This is an opportunity to work on innovative problems where you will become an authority and indispensable within the KLA Algorithm team. Solidify your depth of knowledge while growing your scope of responsibilities to become a leader in the Image Processing field.

Job Duties, but not limited to:

• Designing, developing, and optimizing innovative image processing and computer vision algorithms for KLA’s next‑generation semiconductor photomask inspection products.
• Researching and evaluating new approaches in image processing, signal processing, computer vision, and machine learning to solve challenging real‑world problems.
• Prototyping and validating algorithms in MATLAB or Python and translating successful solutions into production‑quality C++ software on Linux platforms.
• Collaborating with cross‑functional teams to transform technical concepts into robust, customer‑facing capabilities.
• Analyzing complex image data, identifying performance bottlenecks, and improving defect detection accuracy, sensitivity, and throughput.
• Leveraging modern computing technologies, including parallel and GPU‑accelerated computing, to develop high‑performance algorithm solutions.
• Investigating customer challenges and contributing throughout the full development lifecycle, from concept exploration and proof‑of‑concept development through productization and support.

Qualifications

• 1-4 years of work experience required in development in Image Processing (spectral/spatial filtering techniques, model‑based methods and inverse problems, etc.)
• Experience prototyping algorithms using MATLAB or Python, and implementing algorithms in C++ software under Linux is highly preferred.
• Having a strong understanding of innovative research in conventional image processing algorithms.
• Hands‑on experience in an industry setting solving computer vision challenges, strong image processing fundamentals.
• Familiarity with any of the following is a plus: Linear and Nonlinear Optimization techniques, CUDA/GPU Programming frameworks (e.g., PyTorch/TensorFlow), and optical or ebeam modeling.
• International and domestic travel required up to 10%.

What will differentiate you:

The ideal candidate will have 1 to 4 years of strong understanding of innovative research in conventional or traditional image processing. Hands‑on experience solving computer vision challenges, strong image processing fundamentals, and an appreciation of complex image acquisition systems.

Hybrid Work:

This position allows flexibility and requires you to be in the office 3 days a week.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelors Degree plus 5 years experience, or Masters degree plus 3 years experience or PhD plus 0 years experience.

Base Pay Range: $105,900.00 - $180,000.00 Annually
Primary Location: USA-MI-Ann Arbor-KLA

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. If applicable, your recruiter can share more about the specific pay range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

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.