Staff software engineer

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

Job summary

Onto Innovation is seeking a Staff Software Engineer to lead the software architecture, integration, and performance optimization of the R/Theta stage subsystem for next-generation semiconductor inspection and metrology platforms.

The candidate will define software requirements, motion control frameworks, calibration solutions, and coordinate transformation algorithms across software, controls, and hardware teams. Strong expertise in real-time systems and C# is required.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience developing motion-control or real-time software systems.
• Strong expertise in C# and OO design.
• Experience with calibration, compensation, or optimization for motion systems.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot complex system-level issues.
• Technical leadership on large engineering programs.
• Experience in Git and AI for developments.

Responsibilities

• Lead software architecture, integration, and performance optimization of the R/Theta stage subsystem.
• Define software requirements, motion control frameworks, and coordinate transformations.
• Drive stage integration with mechanical, electrical, controls, and systems teams.
• Develop algorithms for R/Theta to Cartesian transformations and calibration workflows.

Skills

C#

Motion control

Real-time software

Multi-threaded

Object-oriented design

Algorithm development

System integration

Git

AI for developments

Education

BS/MS/PhD in Computer Science or related field

Tools

Git

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 We are seeking a highly skilled Staff Software Engineer to lead the software architecture, integration, and performance optimization of the R/Theta stage subsystem for next-generation semiconductor inspection and metrology platforms. This individual will be the technical leader responsible for defining software requirements, motion control frameworks, calibration solutions, coordinate transformation algorithms, and stage performance optimization critical to the success of the program. The ideal candidate combines deep expertise in precision motion control software, real-time systems, algorithm development, and system integration with the ability to drive technical direction across software, controls, systems, and hardware engineering teams.

Serve as the organization's technical expert for stage control software, calibration algorithms, and motion optimization. Design and integrate the new stage to our software platform, including motion sequencing and synchronization, calibration and throughput optimization. Develop algorithms for R/Theta to Cartesian coordinate transformations, error mapping and calibrations. Define automated calibration workflows and production calibration strategies. Collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, controls, and systems engineering teams to ensure seamless subsystem integration.

Qualifications

• B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. in Computer Science, science related discipline.
• 10+ years of experience developing motion-control or real-time software systems.
• Strong expertise in C# and object-oriented design, multi-threaded and real-time software development.
• Strong expertise in precision motion control systems and automation.
• Experience developing calibration, compensation, or optimization algorithms for precision motion systems.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot complex system-level issues involving software and hardware interactions.
• Demonstrated technical leadership on large engineering programs.
• Experience in Git and AI for developments.

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).

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.

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.