Staff Development Engineer

Onto Innovation; Milpitas (CA); On-site; USD 144,000 - 216,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental coverage

Vision coverage

Life insurance

Disability insurance

Paid time off

401(k) with employer match

Employee stock purchase program

Wellness programs

Job summary

Onto Innovation is seeking a senior engineer to own hardware integration and characterization of metrology sub-systems. You will perform system error budget analyses and ensure hardware design requirements are met, while establishing sub-system specifications and measurement processes.

The role requires on-site work at the main factory and up to 30% travel to vendor and customer sites. A 10+ year background in science/engineering and strong motion control expertise are expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in science or engineering.
• 10+ years of relevant experience in metrology hardware or related fields.
• Proficient in motion control, servo tuning, and stage control.

Responsibilities

• Own hardware integration and characterization of metrology sub-systems.
• Perform system error budget analyses and ensure hardware design requirements are met.
• Establish sub-system specifications and define processes to measure key performance metrics.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams within and outside Onto Innovation.
• Work on-site at primary factory location with travel to vendor and customer sites up to 30%.

Skills

Motion control

Servo tuning

Stage control

Automation mapping

Vibration analysis

Sensor characterization

3D CAD

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree or higher in science or engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Finite Element Analysis

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

• The engineer will own hardware integration and characterization of metrology sub-systems
• Perform system error budget analyses and ensure hardware design requirements are met
• Establish sub-system specifications and define processes to measure key performance metrics
• Work requires individual contribution and significant interaction with cross functional teams within and outside ONTO Innovation
• Job requires full-time presence on-site at primary factory location and ability to work in semiconductor cleanroom facilities.
• Requires travel to vendor and customer sites within and outside US, up to approximately 30%.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in science or engineering with 10+ years of relevant experience
• Proficient in motion control, including servo tuning, stage control, and automation mapping.
• Deep understanding of vibration analysis, modal analysis, and VC (Vibration Criteria) standards.
• Experience with isolation systems for micron- and nanometer-level accuracy.
• Familiarity with system architecture, design requirements, and technical specifications for high-performance systems.
• Experience with the characterization and use of sensors, e.g., accelerometers, thermocouples, strain gauges, cap gauges, encoders, torque sensors, gyroscopes, etc.
• Development and integration of prototype systems and lead them into production
• Experience characterizing and implementing motion control systems
• Experience with microcontrollers, Arduino, Pi Proficient with accelerometers and spectrum analyzer to quantify and diagnose a vibration
• Excellent troubleshooting skills and ability to diagnose issues with electromechanical systems
• Experience designing mechanical systems for very clean environments, semiconductor, biotech, food systems are all applicable.
• Skill using mathematical modeling software
• Ability to justify and quantify performance-based metrics that led to their design decisions
• Demonstrated ability to create clear reports and documentation
• Highly collaborative and team-oriented personality with a strong desire to succeed
• Experience with 3D CAD design and finite element analysis ("SolidWorks preferred")
• Strong background in precision mechanics, mechatronics, and electromechanical system design.
• Ability to lead a technical team of junior engineers.

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:

$144,000.00 - $216,000.00, 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).